Beauty lies in eyes of the beholder. Things remain the same. Our perception makes the
difference. I got the chance to realize this when I visited a blind school. While we, the sighted
population, remain busy in finding log in others' eyes, these differently abled children try to
discover beauty of their world with their remaining senses.
Devnar is a special school for blinds in Begumpet, Hyderbabad. It was started by Gouds some
twenty years ago, with 5 students enrolled. Today, it has around 500 students. The school has
lived upto expectations of its founder. Many students from Devnar are pursuing higher
education in well known institutions and many are working in MNCs.
During our visit to Devnar school, we had a chance to see how visually challenged children use
Braille for their studies. I was amazed to see children write fast in braille. Thanks to Louis Braille
who simplified their lives. More amazing thing was to see children move with ease in their
school compound. They walked,ran,danced without any support. Sometimes it was difficult to
believe that they could not see.
There I met Nagalaxmi. She is a great singer, comedian and an entertainer. She participated in
Idea Star Singer television programme which was featured on Maa TV. She even acted in telugu
movie Autograph. She is an ensemblance of life. She had accepted what life had to give to her,
but she never let her disability to stop her to enjoy life. Beauty does exists in eyes of the
beholder...
Hours spend with them were full of smiles. They entertained us with songs, dance and
performances. Children came to talk to us with enthusiasm. They were full of hope and energy.
They taught me an important lesson, to be happy with ourselves. God has plans for everyone of
us. We should accept them with smile.
Thanks to TCS-Maitree for making this week of 'Joy of Giving and Sharing' meaningful.
