Mounesh Vishwakarma

Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal

Bantwal, Jul 10: The life of Bhagyashree Kulal, a resident of Durganagar in Kuriyaala village of the taluk, is a profound testament to a mother’s unwavering sacrifice, a family's relentless struggle, and an absolute belief in the power of education. Born with a completely debilitated lower body, Bhagyashree is unable to walk independently and requires assistance for daily tasks—yet her dreams have never diminished.

Bhagyashree’s father, Keshava Kulal, is also a person with a disability, running a tiny shop in the village that brings in a meagre income. Her mother, Rajeevi, rolls beedis throughout the day to support the household. Despite poverty and physical challenges, keeping Bhagyashree’s education going remained the family's sole mission.

For nearly ten years, until Bhagyashree completed her primary and high school education at Loretto School in Bantwal, Rajeevi carried her daughter on her waist every single day, travelling to school in a rented autorickshaw. While Bhagyashree attended classes, her mother sat on the school premises rolling beedis, carrying her back home in the evening. This decade-long dedication bore fruit when Bhagyashree cleared her SSLC exams with an impressive 75% score.

Acknowledging her grit, several organizations stepped forward to sponsor her higher education. She completed her PUC at SVS College, Bantwal, with 78% marks, and graduated with an 80% score under the support of the Sevanjali Pratishtana in Farangipete. Backed by a scholarship from MRPL, she went on to successfully earn her MCom postgraduate degree from the Government First Grade College, Vamadapadavu, securing 70% marks. The Bantwal Taluk Kulala Sangha, Dhriti Foundation, and Panchamukhi Combines, B C Road, also extended vital financial aid during her academic journey.

Remarkably, academic excellence runs deep in the family. Bhagyashree’s elder sister, Vidyashree, has completed her postgraduation and has also cleared the rigorous K-SET and NET exams. However, she too is yet to land a stable job. Today, both highly qualified sisters find themselves waiting for an employment opportunity that matches their merit.

Despite her outstanding educational background, Bhagyashree currently finds herself confined to the four walls of her house, waiting for employment. Her physical disability has never hindered her capability, but the lack of suitable job opportunities remains a major obstacle.

"People like us do not need pity or charity. We only need employment that matches our qualification and capability. We want to live with self-respect without being a burden to anyone," says Bhagyashree Kulal.

Bhagyashree's story represents the harsh reality faced by many qualified individuals with disabilities. Her determination has proven her capability, and it is now up to society and corporate or government sectors to provide the platform she rightfully deserves.