In the heart of Pune, a small, 6-foot hut was home to the Pariyar family of five. Among them was 16-year-old Harish Chakra Pariyar, whose courageous journey from poverty and adversity to hope and opportunity is a shining testament to the human spirit.
Born into a humble family in Nepal, Harish’s life was marked by challenges from the outset. Partially blind, with only 5% vision in his right eye, he navigated a world that often seemed intent on testing his limits. Yet, Harish refused to be defined by his disability. Encouraged by his parents, who worked tirelessly to make ends meet, he found solace in the pursuit of knowledge.
However, Harish’s path was not without its obstacles. Hindered by his visual impairment, he struggled to engage with traditional educational methods. The cruel taunts of childhood bullies served as a constant reminder of his perceived limitations, threatening to extinguish the flickering flame of hope within him.
But fate had other plans for Harish. A pivotal moment arrived when he joined CYDA’s STEM Innovation Learning Centre, a transformative program that ignited his academic journey. With CYDA’s support, Harish found the world of science and mathematics both accessible and exciting. Guided by mentors and surrounded by supportive peers, he began to dream big.
His breakthrough came when he entered a science project competition, showcasing his creativity and determination. Despite his visual impairment, Harish secured third place, proving his resilience and ability to overcome challenges. This success was not only his but also a shared triumph with his dedicated parents and CYDA.
Recognizing the transformative impact of the program, his parents made the courageous decision to relocate their family to Pune, determined to give Harish the best possible chance at a brighter future. Today, Harish stands as a shining example of perseverance and resilience, a beacon of hope for countless others facing similar challenges.
Encouraged by his success, his parents have enrolled his siblings in CYDA’s STEM program, ensuring that the flame of education continues to burn bright within their family. As Harish looks toward the future, his vision may be limited, but his aspirations know no bounds. With each step forward, he defies expectations and inspires those around him to embrace their own potential.
Harish’s journey is a testament to the power of courage, determination, and the unwavering belief that with faith and perseverance, anything is possible. His story serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope, and that with the right support and mindset, anyone can overcome adversity and achieve
greatness.
The article is contributed by Kalyani Mudaliar, Documentation officer at CYDA
