20 years after the Indian Ocean tsunami, a boy found in the mud embraces being known as ‘Baby 81’ – LocalNews8.com

Associated Press

KURUKKAL MADAM, Sri Lanka (AP) — The boy once known as “Baby 81,” who was pulled from the mud as an infant after the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004 and reunited with his parents following an emotional court battle, is now a 20-year-old dreaming of higher education. Jayarasa Abilash’s story symbolized the many families torn apart by one of the worst natural calamities in modern history, but it also offered hope. He grew up being followed by the nickname “Baby 81” and feeling embarrassed until he learned more about the events that tore him from his family and brought him back. He has lost his fear.