Specially-abled brothers to get ‘Honsle Ki Udan’ award

Hamirpur, August 27

Two specially-abled brothers from Bilaspur district have been selected for Indian Oil’s ‘Honsle Ki Udan’ award. Blind by birth, Ashwani Kumar Gupta and Raj Kumar Gupta earn their livelihood by running general and grocery stores at their village in Baroa.

Sanjeen Sharma, convener of NGO Kartavyanisth in Bilaspur, said Ashwani and Raj Kumar had exemplified courage. The brothers were selected for the ‘Honsle Ki Udan’ award and will be honoured at a function at Tagore Theatre in Chandigarh on September 18. He said the Gupta brothers had proved that despite challenges, one can lead life with dignity.

Ashwani Kumar Gupta can tell currency notes and coins by mere touching these, a skill he had acquired with years of practice. He said it was very difficult to work initially, but he got the hang of things with time.

Baroa residents have many praiseworthy stories to tell about the duo. Their neighbour Suresh Kumar said the brothers were ever helpful and delivered services even at late hours. Their humble nature also helps attract customers to their shops, he added.

The Gupta brothers are happy to know about the honour that will be bestowed upon them and are looking forward to going to Chandigarh.