Standing tall against all odds

They have been denied normal life from birth. They had to face humiliations until they claimed their rightful dignities of being human beings by their indomitable spirit.

Sujon Rahman, Shapla Khatun, Halim Mian, and Tipu Sultan have now become sources of inspiration for other physically challenged people in Kushtia.

Sujon, a resident of Kushtia municipality, was born visually challenged. He completed his graduation in public administration from Kushtia Islamic University and is now working as the cultural officer at Kushtia Shilpakala Academy. Besides doing the job, he has made a position in the realm of music.

"Blind people get less opportunity to pursue an academic career. We have to write in braille after listening to any text. I went through many hurdles to get admission to the university and to become an artist. I had to take help from my family and friends," 36-year-old Sujon was talking about his journey of life. 

"I have become successful by overcoming lots of adversities. Now, I am doing a good job. I would like to suggest other physically challenged people not to get frustrated. Keep trying, you will clinch the success," said Sujon. 

Thirty-one-year-old Shapla and 27-year-old Halim are siblings. Shapla was born with impairment in one of her legs and Halim was born without eyesight. 

Shapla did her graduation from Kushtia Government College. She along with her brother Halim set up a small grocery shop in their village Hatosh Haripur. Then, the business expanded and good days embraced them. Now, people who once used to mock them get inspirations from them.

Shapla told The Business Standard, "I have obtained my Bachelor of Arts degree by overcoming lots of obstacles. Then, I have become self-sufficient by doing business. Now, people like me want to talk to me."

"Earlier, villagers used to call me 'Kana' (blind), which hurt me a lot. That time I was valueless to them. But, after becoming financially solvent, people value my opinions, "said Halim.

Visually challenged Tipu is another instance of indomitable spirit of going ahead defying all hardships. Forty-two-year-old Tipu has earned his name and fame in the realm of music in Kushtia. 

Tipu is known as 'Ostad' in the district. He teaches music at Kushtia Government College. Many of his students have earned good reputations as singers. 

Tipu wants to establish a music school. "If the government provides the necessary help, I will arrange training for music lovers in the district," he said.

Deputy Director of Kushtia Social Welfare Department Roksana Parvin said, "We have the information of all the physically challenged people in the district. We provide them with all sorts of assistance. These four physically challenged persons have set examples for others."  

Deputy Commissioner of Kushtia Aslam Hossain said, "The government has undertaken various steps to empower physically challenged people. The district administration will take measures so that all the physically challenged people in Kushtia can be self-sufficient."

Resident Medical Officer of Kushtia General Hospital, Taposh Kumar Sarker said people can be born with physical impairments due to environmental factors, and marriage between relatives or same blood group of physically challenged parents.

"However, they can lead a life like normal people if they are given proper treatments regularly," he added.