This is the story of a little boy named Karthik.

Karthik is a very quiet and gentle boy. He rarely speaks to anyone and is extremely shy. But he's kind, respectful, and friendly to everyone around him. Naturally, everyone likes him.

Now, Karthik has a small habit - not really a bad one - but something that holds him back. No matter what the situation is, he never has the courage to step forward and participate, even if he knows he's good at it. There's always a fear inside him that stops him from doing things confidently - like joining an event or a competition.

But there's something Karthik truly loves: singing.

Whenever no one is at home, Karthik sings freely - devotional songs, film songs - his voice is so sweet and melodious.

Even though he knows he can sing well, he never tells anyone - not even his parents, not even his friends, not even his teachers.

Why?

Because there's a small, scared little Karthik inside him - worried about being mocked.

What if someone laughs at his singing?

What if his friends or teachers make fun of him?

What if his parents scold him for singing cinema songs?

This fear kept him silent.

One day, his class teacher announced that the Annual Day was coming up and everyone should participate in a program. Many students volunteered happily for their favorite activities. But Karthik didn't give his name, even though he secretly wanted to sing.

The teacher noticed this and said,

"Karthik, I think you'll be perfect for the dance group. I'll teach you. Don't worry, I'm writing your name under the dance category."

Although Karthik wasn't interested in dancing, he didn't want to disobey his teacher. So, he agreed.

The teacher taught the group dance beautifully. And because Karthik is the kind of boy who gives his full effort when someone lovingly tells him to do something, he practiced sincerely. That's one of his strengths.

Finally, the Annual Day arrived. All the students performed enthusiastically. When Karthik's group performed their dance, his parents were shocked.

"Our son can dance this well? We had no idea!"

They felt both proud and a little guilty.

"We should've noticed his talents earlier," they said.

Later, they enrolled him in a nearby dance school.

Karthik agreed, out of respect for his parents - but he never told them he didn't really enjoy dancing.

He kept his real passion - singing - hidden out of fear and respect.

At first, he tried hard at the dance school. But slowly, the dance teacher began to sense something was off.

"Karthik is trying," the teacher thought, "but he lacks the spark. Something's missing."

So, the teacher called him aside and gently asked,

"Do you enjoy dance? Am I rushing you? Tell me, I'll teach you patiently."

This friendly and kind approach made Karthik open up a little.

They grew closer. Karthik started enjoying the classes - not because of dance - but because of the bond he built with the teacher.

One day, the teacher asked,

"What do you usually do when your parents aren't at home?"

Karthik answered,

"I finish my homework, watch a bit of TV, play some games, and? sing a little."

The teacher's ears perked up.

"Wait, you sing? You never told me!"

Karthik shyly said,

"I do? but please don't ask me to sing."

The teacher smiled,

"Come on, I'm your friend, right? Just one song - for me?"

So, Karthik sang.

The moment the teacher heard his voice, they were stunned.

"Your voice is incredible! Why didn't you join music class instead of dance?"

Karthik replied,

"Even my parents don't know I sing. I was scared they'd scold me if I sang cinema songs. I was scared people might laugh."

The teacher gently explained,

"From the beginning, I knew you were dancing only to fulfill your parents' wishes. But now that I know your true talent, we should develop it. And guess what? I've already spoken to a music school nearby, and they're ready to admit you. I'll even handle the admission."

Then, the teacher called Karthik's parents and explained everything.

The parents were shocked and regretful.

They had chosen dance for him based on one random performance and never truly asked him what he liked. They thanked the teacher and promised to support Karthik in what he truly loved - singing.

So kids, what did we learn from this?

Don't be afraid to speak your heart.

If you keep trying to make your parents or teachers happy by doing only what they want, you'll never truly feel fulfilled.

Sometimes it's okay to try something new for them, but your passion is your path.

And unless you express what you love - no one will know.

Luckily, Karthik had a dance teacher who noticed and helped him.

Not everyone gets that chance.

So when you get an opportunity to learn or participate in something you love - don't hesitate.

Even if you fail at first, keep trying. One day, your passion will turn into perfection.

And remember - share your dreams with your parents. They may not understand at first, but if you speak from your heart, they will always support you.