Actress and dancer Anju Aravind has spoken about a very personal tragedy. In an emotional Facebook post, the actor revealed the death of his aunt, whom he described as one of the most influential figures in his life.Anju used the post to not only pay tribute to her beloved aunt, but spread the word about the importance of seeking expert medical advice when health issues arise.
The woman who shaped his life
Recalling her aunt’s influence, Anju described her as a strong and inspiring personality. She said her aunt played a big role in shaping her confidence, education and career.Her post read: “Aunty Raj. She was not just my mother’s younger sister, she was like a mother to me. He was one of the biggest role models in my life.”He also wrote: “There was a special grace in the way she carried herself online. Unlike most women of the time, she confidently wore high heels and walked with remarkable self-assurance. She was the first person I had ever witnessed that kind of confidence.”
Help in difficult years
Anju also revealed the financial struggles she faced during her early years as a classical dance student.She wrote: “During the years of learning dance, we had many financial difficulties. When I started learning Kuchipudi, there was not enough money to sew a dance costume. At that time, my aunt gave me one of her sarees. My first dance costume was made with that saree. Wearing that outfit, I participated in the Youth Festival and reached the rank.”The actress credited her aunt with several important milestones in her life. Anju added, “If I am financially independent today, if I earn a living on my own and through my work, three-fourths of the credit is from Raj aunty. At one of the most difficult times in my life, she showed me an advertisement in the Mathrubhumi newspaper and encouraged me to apply to that college. That’s why I completed my Bharatana degree. Later, I got my Masters from RLV College. Rajanti was also the reason my journey into cinema started.”
The delayed diagnosis left the family devastated
He also wrote, “But the biggest mistake we made was trusting the local doctor too much. Whenever my aunt complained of stomach pain, they would tell her it was just a stomach problem and send her home with medicine. We found out she had stage 4 cancer.”The actor expressed his belief that the earlier test could have changed the result. He added, “Had the scan been recommended at the outset, perhaps aunty Raj would be with us today. No doctor should ever treat a patient.”Ending the note, Anju described the pain of saying goodbye to someone who had given her so much love and support throughout her life. She wrote: “Today, as we wrapped up and prepared for our final goodbye, my heart broke. The emptiness is beyond words. All that remains is gratitude and immeasurable love.”Ending his tribute with a message of respect and remembrance, he added, “My respects and prayers.”Anju Aravind is known for her work in Malayalam, Tamil and Kannada films. He later became a popular face on Malayalam television through serials and character roles.Note: This article contains personal experiences related to cancer and the disease, which readers may find sensitive. Information shared is based on personal accounts or reported events and is for general awareness only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
