Hearing-impaired duo finds success and independence through restaurant business in Myagdi

MYAGDI: Amrit and Hemraj Sharma, who are hearing-impaired, have become self-reliant by operating a restaurant at Paudel Chowk in Singa, Beni Municipality-4, Myagdi.

Thirty-five-year-old Amrit and 42-year-old Hemraj, both from Baglung, have set an example that physical disability cannot hinder employment, business, or opportunities. The 'Sign Language Snack House,' jointly operated by the relatives at Paudel Chowk, has provided them with self-employment and independence.

Born without hearing, the two Sharmas communicate with customers using sign language and written notes. They personally prepare tea, snacks, jeri, vegetables, and seasonal dishes including hornet, fish, and meat.

Local residents, ward office staff, school personnel, travelers on the Beni-Darbang road, and business owners are regular customers of the restaurant. Customers from afar often place orders via mobile messages. Some even communicate through video calls on social media using sign language.

Amrit explained through writing that if they receive a phone call, they ask neighbors to answer and relay the information. Shankar Basyal, a consultant for hydropower projects in Myagdi, said he chooses the Sign Language Snack House for its cleanliness and warm hospitality. "Even though they cannot speak, they understand the customers' feelings and treat them politely," he said. "I like it because the place is clean and the food is hygienic."

The duo, who generate a daily turnover of around 5,000 rupees, stated that this income allows them to sustain their business and manage their household expenses. Business increases during festivals like Dashain and Tihar.

Hemraj has a wife and a daughter, while Amrit's wife is also hearing-impaired, and they have a son. Hemraj has studied up to grade 5, while Amrit has completed grade 12. Their families reside in Baglung.

With the help of Shankar Pandey, a teacher at the Dhaulagiri Secondary School's resource class for the deaf, Hemraj and Amrit arrived in Singa 10 years ago. Both had a passion for cooking from a young age. Amrit recalls starting the business by renting a house with 300,000 rupees brought from home. Currently, their business investment is around 1 million rupees.

The duo shares that having skills and being involved in business has made managing their lives easier. Yadav Prasad Paudel of Paudel Chowk noted that Amrit and Hemraj have sent a message that despite physical challenges, one can become self-reliant and self-employed if they possess skills, professional art, and courage.

"Amrit and Hemraj have shown that if one knows how to utilize their skills, they do not need to depend on others to survive," he said. "The success they have achieved through their business can be an example for many."

Currently operating in a rented house, they plan to expand their business. However, a lack of capital and the fact that not all customers understand sign language remain challenges for them.