Palakkad: A differently-abled youth has become the star of his native place in Palakkad district, thanks to the support of his friends.
Salman Kuttikode, son of Cherpulassery natives (late) Mohammed Kutty and Fathima, has congenital anomalies, both physical and mental. The 32-year-old was brought into the mainstream of society and turned into a celebrity by a group of youngsters at his native place. Salman is a star on social media and on the football ground.
Friends Ansab and Sharafu introduced Salman on social media about 1.5 years ago. As he starred in reels, he got several followers.
Salman enjoys celebrity status in his village. People are waiting to get a date of Salman for the inauguration of new shops, football turfs and tournaments. He is all set to fly to Dubai for the inauguration of a shop.
I M Vijayan, former captain of the Indian football team, had recently gone to Cherpulassery for the inauguration of a turf ground. On meeting Salman, Vijayan embraced him. Salman's reels on football are first sent to I M Vijayan, his friend Kabir said.
A constant presence at football tournaments, Salman has a good number of fans at Malappuram, Kozhikode and Vengara regions. Clubs regard Salman as a lucky charm.
His friends Sabir, Ansab, Sharafu, Kabir, and Shameer have always been with him, supporting him in every way.