L.K. Siya Fathima, a student at VKP MMRHSS, Padanna in Kasaragod, made history by becoming the first student to compete online at the State School Arts Festival. Siya wrote to Education Minister V. Sivankutty, saying, “My body is being eaten away by pain. Still, I want to take part in the school festival. Is there any solution you can find for me, sir?” After winning the District-level competition, Siya was diagnosed with vasculitis, a rare illness where the immune system attacks blood vessels. Her treatment weakened her immune system, making her very vulnerable to infections. She had to stay in quarantine, and travel was impossible as even a small infection could be life-threatening. Thanks to the organisers and judges, Siya participated online with supervision. She said in a phone interview with The Hindu, “This is one of the most beautiful moments of my life. I still can’t believe this has really happened. This support has given me the courage to keep fighting my disease and to hold on to my love for art.”