Balu is the only boy out of three children in his family. His two older sisters, Sindhu and Sailaja, are also boarders. His father is a coolie and fruit seller but, due to poor health, does not contribute much to the care of the family. His mother also works as a coolie, doing her best to support the family. Balu is good at playing kabaddi and chess, as well as running. He is also diligent in his studies.
