Pawan Kalyan mourns death of teenage fan battling rare genetic disorder

Hyderabad, Jul 8 (PTI) Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan's fan, who had a rare genetic disorder, died at Warangal on Wednesday. The condition of Niranjan (17) worsened during the last few days, and the end came on Wednesday morning, family sources said. Kalyan visited the residence of Niranjan on June 17 at Hanumakonda near Warangal. The disorder had stunted the teenager's growth, leaving him bedridden. During his visit, moved by Niranjan's condition, Kalyan hugged him. The president of Jana Sena came to know about Niranjan's wish to meet him after being informed by party leaders in Telangana. Kalyan enquired about Niranjan's health with his parents, extended financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh, and handed over ‘kalyanam akshatalu' (sacred rice grains) from the Tirupati Venkateswara temple to the family. He watched videos of Niranjan dancing to his songs, filmed when the teenager was in better health, and had arranged a puppy for him — something Niranjan had wished for. Kalyan expressed deep sadness over the demise of Niranjan. Recalling his visit to Niranjan's home in Warangal last month, Kalyan said the teenager's smile and love would stay with him forever. Though he was fighting a battle with his illness, Niranjan showed remarkable courage, hope and self-confidence, Kalyan said in a post on X. He prayed to god for strength for the boy's family to bear the tragedy, and for peace for the departed soul. PTI SJR SSK