“Indian Conjoined Twins Reject Separation, Embrace Unique Connection”
Conjoined twins Shivanath and Shivram Sahukar have caused quite a stir in their village in India, with some people worshiping them as divine incarnations. Despite the possibility of being separated, the 12-year-olds are determined to remain together, declaring, “We don’t wish to get separated. We will stay like this even when we grow old. We want to live as we are.”
Born joined at the waist, Shivanath and Shivram share two legs and four arms, working in tandem to navigate their daily lives. Surprising doctors with their ability to wash, dress, and feed themselves, the twins have learned to perform all their basic daily chores with minimal fuss.
Although they share the same stomach, they have independent lungs, hearts, and brains. While one doctor has suggested that separation may be possible, Shivanath and Shivram’s father, Raj Kumar Sahukar, is resolute in his decision not to allow it, even if he had the means and the operation was viable.
The twins excel academically and are considered among the top students at their local school. They have also displayed talent in sports and are active participants in games with neighboring children. Despite facing challenges due to their physical condition, the twins maintain a positive attitude and appear to be well-adjusted.
While some doctors believe that separation is an option, it would come with drastic consequences for Shivanath. He would likely lose both legs and require full-time care. Additionally, the operation would be expensive and necessitate long-term rehabilitation, both physically and psychologically.
The decision to separate conjoined twins involves considering various factors, such as the twins’ well-being, societal acceptance, and their personal desires. Dr. Krishan Chugh, head of pediatrics at the Fortis Memorial Research Institute, suggests that the twins’ motivation to be independent individuals may change over time as they observe others around them.
The case of Shivanath and Shivram bears some similarities to the famous conjoined twins Ganga and Jamuna Mondal from West Bengal, India, who performed as “The Spider Sisters” in the Dreamland Circus. It remains to be seen how the future unfolds for the Sahukar twins, but their unique connection and determination to stay together make for an extraordinary story of love and acceptance.
