Chained to wheelchair since 19, Dhanya finds a life partner in Gopakumar

Muvattupuzha: Chained to the wheelchair since the age of 19, Dhanya had resigned herself to a single, lonely life. But then Gopakumar, a lottery vendor, sought her hand in marriage.

"Dhanya tried to dissuade me several times. But I continued to pursue her. I had taken an instant liking towards her from the moment I saw her. And I did not feel like letting go off her. I saw in Dhanya a kind and strong person, who was able to overcome her physical disabilities. I promised never to cause her any unhappiness and offered to be her partner for life," said Gopakumar of Arakuzha near Muvattupuzha in Kerala's Ernakulam district.

And finally, Gopakumar tied the knot to Dhanya, daughter of Muvattupuzha native Gopinath, the other day.

They met in a traditional setting as both families got together to fix their marriage alliance. Dhanya called up Gopakumar even before he came to see her for the Pennu Kaanal (the function where the prospective bride and groom along with their families meet for the first time).

She told him about her limitations and tried to dissuade him from the wedding. Undeterred, Gopakumar went to Dhanya's house to meet her.

Even after the function, Dhanya asked Gopakumar again, “Why would you want to lead a troublesome life by getting married to me?”

"I had never been a burden to anyone despite my condition. I would not be able to stand it if it were to happen,” she told him.

However, Gopakumar would hear none of it. "I really liked you. Just tell me if you are okay with spending your life with a lottery seller," he replied.

Thus, Gopakumar and Dhanya got married.

Dhanya was afflicted with spinal tumour while she was pursuing optometric studies at Angamaly. She underwent treatment but had to take a break from studies. She then secured BA and MA in English from the MG University.

Even when she was going through difficult times, Dhanya took solace in music.

She is the lead singer of fraternities such as Thanal and Freedom on Wheels. She also gives abacus training to children.