Kendrapada: Some let adversity get the better of themselves. Then there are some like Urbashi Das, who turn setbacks into stories of resilience. Born with hands that do not work, the 39-year-old Urbashi has never allowed herself to be governed by disability. Instead, she uses her toes to do everyday tasks like cooking and sewing to painting, writing and teaching children at the Anganwadi centre in Kalasapur village in the district.
“Since birth, both my hands have been paralysed. But I have never considered it as a setback,” said Urbashi, who credits her family’s unwavering support behind her becoming a teacher.
Despite physical challenges, Urbashi completed her studies and got a job as an Anganwadi teacher in her village in 2012. “My appointment as a teacher is a dream come true,” said Urbashi, who earns a monthly salary of Rs 10,000. Today, she teaches 32 children at the centre.
Initially, some parents were sceptical about her ability to teach. “However, within a few days, she became the most popular teacher among all the kids,” said Manas Behera, a villager. Panchayat samiti member Bikash Jena echoed similar sentiments while praising her approach to teaching.
Maminabala Panda, child development project officer in Aul, described Urbashi as “an example for all disabled persons”.
Urbashi is unmarried and lives with her brother and mother but is optimistic about her future. “I have a dream to open a school and training centre for disabled persons in our village,” said Urbashi, who believes in working silently and letting success speak for itself.