Differerently-challenged boy inspires many

By Matters India Reporter

Rattanpura, June 16, 2023: Jaswant Mavi, a differently-abled student of a Catholic school, has become an inspiration for many in the northwestern Indian state of Rajasthan.

“It is a matter of pride for all of us in our family and the village,” says Jaswant’s father Prakash Mavi after learning about his son’s high score in the tenth-grade state level examination.

Jaswant, who studied in St Joseph Catholic School managed by the Capuchins in Rattanpura, Banswara district, score 98.67 percent, with 100 marks in all subjects except science.

The 13-year-old boy is differently challenged in both hands and one leg. He, however, manages everything on his own without being dependent on others.

“Despite being differently abled, he was able to score high marks. His hard work is commendable,” says Capuchin Father Kantu Katara, the school administrator.

The boy’s father, a daily wager, told Matters India that his son had an option to get a helper to write the exam, but he wrote all papers on his own.

He recalled the teachers’ skepticism when Jaswant was brought for admission. “They asked me how he would write as he has no fingers in his hands.”

Mavi, a bachelor degree holder, started giving his son writing practice, keeping pen in between his both hands. Jaswant learned it well that in a week the teachers changed their opinion.

“His hand writing in English is so good that it would fail printed letters,” the proud father told Matters India.

Jaswant now wants to become an Indian Administrative Service officer or Indian Revenue Service officer.

Sister Mukta Toppo, the school principal and English teacher, says Jaswant’s commitment and dedication are what make him different from others.

“It is true his is differently-abled, but he never takes anyone’s help for doing his work even if we offer him,” Sister Toppo told Matters India.

The nun also said Jaswant plays cricket and football. “His favorite game is cricket. It is amazing to see him playing cricket keeping the bat in between is hands with no palm or fingers,” she said.

She also finds the boy joyful and daring.

“It seems he never believes in failure and that seems to be the secret of this huge success,” Sister Toppo added.