Abhijith N Kolpe

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Feb 29: Having a disability should not be an obstacle to success, as one can overcome all odds in life. Similarly, the journey of 12-year-old Harshith is nothing short of an inspirational story. Despite facing disability, he dreams big and excels in skateboarding.

Harshith, a 12-year-old boy residing opposite Tannirbhavi Church, was born with a disability. His survival seemed uncertain at birth, with even doctors expressing little hope. Coming from an economically backward family, his parents, Poornima and Srinivas, work at Tannirbhavi Beach and on a boat respectively. Harshith currently attends the 6th standard at Narayana Guru School, Kudroli, and has an elder sister named Riddhima.

The family faced tough situations with numerous challenges. Harshith was bedridden for more than 2 years, while they struggled in a very tiny rented house without owning their own home. Despite these hardships, Harshith's parents never lost hope in him and remained confident that he would stand on his own feet one day. Due to ongoing economic crises, Harshith underwent treatments.

Harshith encountered various health complications including heart and eye problems, as well as slow body growth with a disproportionately large head and a small body. However, after two years of being bedridden, he began to walk slowly, showing signs of progress.

Anish Panambur, an expert in surfing and skateboarding, noticed Harshith six years ago. Anish took an interest in teaching Harshith surfing and skateboarding, which helped him overcome his fear of water and develop a strong determination to learn skating under Anish Panambur's guidance. Over time, Harshith developed a keen interest in the sport and began practicing surfing and skating with Anish Panambur.

Today, Harshith appears very confident in skating and also volunteers his time to teach skating to children and adults during his free time. He aspires to participate in competitions in the future.

Anish Panambur says, "Six years ago, Harshith's physical condition was much worse. I began teaching him surfing and skating, which not only boosted his confidence but also improved his physical appearance compared to six years ago. Despite having thin legs and difficulty bending them, he has shown remarkable willpower in learning skating despite all obstacles. Today, he exudes confidence and ensures that he shares his skills with others, including elders. Harshith excels in his studies and is remarkably active and sharp, recognizing and harnessing his capabilities."

Poornima, his parent, says, "He is undergoing treatment for numerous health complications. However, despite this, he has a strong interest in skating, and with Anish's help, he has learned both skating and surfing. We will not discourage him from pursuing his passions. In fact, after taking up surfing and skating, we've noticed an improvement in his physical appearance. When Harshith was born, doctors had expressed doubts about his survival, saying it would be a miracle if he did."

Poornima urged that if anyone comes forward to help Harshith participate in skating competitions and acquire skating equipment, it would greatly assist him in achieving his goals.

Contact: +91 7259288366 (Poornima)