Nihal Bitla, face of Progeria in India, passes away
The 15-year-old suffered from Hutchinson–Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS), the rare disorder which accelerates the ageing process and causes hair loss, rendering an older look.
The Facebook page of Team Nihal, a group that manages the campaign, wrote, "Nihal, your contagious smile, positive attitude, inspiring chats, optimistic outlook will give us strength for years to come. You have left us behind with heavy hearts for a higher place, Rest in peace our dear friend. Our thoughts and condolences with family and friends."
Nihal was diagnosed with the disease at the age of one. He used to campaign about the condition and helped other kids suffering from the same come in terms with theirs.
Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan portrayed one such character in his critically acclaimed movie Paa, directed by R Balki.
Image: Facebook page of Team Nihal
Support Our Journalism
We cannot do without you.. your contribution supports unbiased journalism
IBNS is not driven by any ism- not wokeism, not racism, not skewed secularism, not hyper right-wing or left liberal ideals, nor by any hardline religious beliefs or hyper nationalism. We want to serve you good old objective news, as they are. We do not judge or preach. We let people decide for themselves. We only try to present factual and well-sourced news.