In a display of human kindness for a cause of serious concern, £1.8 million was raised in Kerala through crowdfunding in seven days for an 18-month-old child suffering from a rare genetic disorder called spinal muscular atrophy. Mohammed, son of PK Rafeeq and Mariyumma, requires a dose of Zolgensma, which is considered as one of the most expensive drug in the world. The treatment committee informed the public that over £1.8 million reached the bank accounts opened for the donations and asked the people not to deposit any more. The treatment committee, headed by MLA M Vijin, had a week ago appealed to the public to crowdfund for the treatment of Mohammed. The campaign was taken over by social media resulting in raising the amount within seven days from across the world. Incidentally, 15-year-old Afra, the elder sister of Mohammed, was also affected with the same disease and is on wheelchair. The medicine will have to be procured from abroad.
Telangana ministers lead 'no mask' act at Bonalu festival
Worrying visuals of hundreds of people, most without masks and social distancing, have emerged from Hyderabad, where the Telangana government is celebrating the Bonalu festival. Among the attendees were state ministers as well - without masks, or masks pulled down below the chin - and no Covid protocols in sight. Over 30,000 devotees have been celebrating the festival in the state, police said, even as experts warn against large gatherings as the country limps out of a deadly second wave. Ministers Talasani Srinivas Yadav and Indrakaran Reddy were seen offering what is called Bangaru bonam or golden bonam to Goddess Jagadambika at Golconda to the accompaniment of dancers, drums and music. Social distancing went for a toss as the venue that was seen brimming with people in visuals.
