Visually Impaired Teacher Inspires Generations in Kailali

Kailali. One does not always need eyes to see the light in life; sometimes, self-confidence, hard work, and strong willpower show the way. 42-year-old Bikatlal Chaudhary from Ranikunda, Bardgoriya Rural Municipality-3, is a testament to this. Born visually impaired, he did not surrender to the darkness but instead sought light within it, embarking on a journey to brighten not only his own future but that of thousands of students.

Involved in the teaching profession at Jagadambike Bhagwati Secondary School since 2065 BS, Chaudhary has spent over 15 years in the classroom. For him, the school is not just a workplace but a life purpose. When he stands in class, even without sight, he stands with an inner vision that perceives the potential, possibilities, and future of his students.

The students he has taught are now established in various fields. Seeing those students from the village succeed makes him feel that his struggle was worthwhile. He says, "There is no greater joy than knowing that even a small piece of knowledge I shared has changed someone's life." However, his life journey was not easy. He lost his parents at a young age, and his family support system weakened. As his vision remained poor, daily life became increasingly difficult. He mentions that with his brother also being visually impaired, he had to rely on the support of his elder sister, brother-in-law, and younger sister.

The humiliation and pain he endured in childhood remain fresh in his memory. Some in the village called him 'blind' and hesitated to walk with him. Everything, from moving around to attending school and managing daily life, was a challenge.

These hardships made him stronger rather than weaker. Although he initially felt he could not study, the support and inspiration of a teacher changed his perspective. After the teacher visited his home to help with his studies, his self-confidence grew. He realized that while physical abilities may be limited, the desire to learn and hard work lead to unlimited possibilities.

After passing the SLC, he stepped into the teaching profession. That moment was not just the start of a job, but a turning point that gave his life new meaning. Teaching in a classroom while being visually impaired was not easy, but he never considered himself weak; instead, he turned his weakness into strength. Alongside teaching, he also completed his higher secondary education. In class, he does not just talk about textbooks but also shares life experiences.

His family life is also full of struggle. His wife is also visually impaired. Together, they are managing the responsibilities of their 13-year-old daughter and two-year-old son. Their daughter has taken on significant responsibilities at a young age, actively helping with household chores and caring for her parents.

Music and literature also hold a special place in Chaudhary's life. He occasionally sings and writes poetry. A poem he wrote in his early school days still reflects his mindset: "Even if the eyes are closed, the mind is not." This belief has given him the energy to move forward continuously.

The societal perspective toward people with disabilities is gradually changing. "Those who used to look down on me now call me with respect and ask for advice," he says. He is now specially invited to village programs. He is no longer just an individual but a source of experience and inspiration.

In his view, people with disabilities do not need pity, but opportunities. "We should not be kept behind by being considered weak; if given the opportunity, we can also perform," he says.