Did you know that India is home to a village officially known as the "Silent Village"? Located in the scenic hills of the Doda district in Jammu and Kashmir, Dhadkai looks like heaven on earth. However, its identity is not defined by its breathtaking landscape, but by a heartbreaking reality that has drawn global attention.

Out of a population of approximately 2,000 people, over 90 individuals in Dhadkai are born deaf and mute. Astonishingly, out of 105 families living in this tribal village, more than 55 families have at least one member suffering from this condition. Instead of voices, the residents here communicate through a unique local sign language. For years, the locals believed this condition was a curse from God or a cruel twist of fate. However, scientific research has traced this congenital disorder back to genetics.

• The Cause: Researchers found that mutations in the OTOF (otoferlin) gene are a major cause of this widespread hearing impairment.

• The Reason: A high rate of consanguineous marriages (marrying within close relatives) over generations has allowed this genetic disorder to persist and spread within the endogamous community.

Watch the video to learn more about the struggles and realities of the Silent Village. Follow Vygr for more such unique and informative stories.

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