Rupandehi, December 16:

Kamal BK, 15, could well be said to be the Tommy Tucker of Butwal, in the literal sense. He has been supporting his family of eight by singing on the streets of Butwal.

Kamal, who was singing at Milan Chowk today when this reporter chanced upon him, said he has been singing on the streets for the past four years to support his family. He said he could not attend school as he is the only breadwinner in the family.

“The money I earn by singing on the streets goes for paying the house rent and buying provisions for my mother and my six siblings,” Kamal said. Kamal said his father died of cancer long ago, adding that they had to sell their house situated at Phulbari of Butwal to pay for the loan his father had taken to meet his habits of drinking and smoking.

Kamal said his mother collects and sells junk to bring in some extra earning. Kamal sings folk songs he hears on the radio. He said he earns up to Rs 200 daily by singing on the streets. He also sings in hotels and at fairs and exhibitions.

Laxmi Ghatane, a music teacher, said Kamal is unusually talented and his voice is very melodious. “He has the potential to become a great artiste if he is provided training,” she said.