20 Years After Indian Ocean Tsunami, 'Baby 81' Reflects on His Remarkable Journey

Jayarasa Abilash, once a symbol of hope after the 2004 disaster, now dreams of pursuing higher education in Sri Lanka.

Jayarasa Abilash, known globally as 'Baby 81,' was rescued as an infant from the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and reunited with his parents after a legal battle involving DNA testing.
The tsunami claimed over 35,000 lives in Sri Lanka, leaving families devastated and separated, with Abilash's story becoming a symbol of hope and resilience.
Abilash, now 20 years old, is preparing for university studies in information technology while reflecting on the global attention his story received.
His family faced challenges following the media spotlight, including exclusion from tsunami relief programs and social ostracism in their community, forcing them to relocate.
A memorial for tsunami victims, built by the family in their yard, serves as a daily reminder of the lives lost and the resilience of those who survived.