April 23, Ghodaghodi (Kailali) – It is not always necessary to have sight to see the light in life; sometimes confidence, hard work, and strong determination can also illuminate the path. Viktalal Chaudhary, a 42-year-old resident of Bardagoriya Rural Municipality-3, Ranikunda, exemplifies this truth. Blind from birth, he has wiped away the darkness of a bleak future from his life and stepped firmly toward the light. Viktalal has dedicated himself not only to his own progress but also to brightening the futures of thousands of students.
Since 2008 BS, Chaudhary has been involved in teaching at Jagdambike Bhagwati Secondary School and has spent over 15 years in the classroom. For him, school is not just a job but a life mission. Though he cannot see with his eyes while standing in the classroom, he perceives the abilities, potential, and future of his students through inner vision.
The students he has taught have established themselves in various fields today. Seeing these students—who studied in the village—succeed has made his struggles worthwhile. “If my modest knowledge has changed someone’s life, what greater happiness could there be?” he says. However, his life journey has not been easy. He lost both parents at a young age, causing his family’s circumstances to weaken. Living with blindness made daily life even more challenging. His older brothers are also visually impaired, and he has lived with his sisters and sisters-in-law.
The humiliation and pain he endured as a child remain fresh in his memory. Many in the village would insult him by calling him ‘blind’ and were afraid to walk alongside him. Simply moving around, attending school, and managing daily life were all formidable challenges. Instead of weakening him, these hardships strengthened his resolve. Initially, he doubted his ability to study, but the support and encouragement of a teacher changed his perspective. When the teacher came to his home to help him study, his confidence grew. He realized that although physically challenged, a desire to learn and hard work open limitless possibilities.
After passing the SLC exams, he embarked on a teaching career. This was more than just starting a job; it was a turning point that gave new direction to his life. Teaching while being blind was not easy, yet he never considered himself weak. He converted his weaknesses into strength and moved forward. Alongside teaching, he also completed higher secondary education. In the classroom, he does not only discuss textbooks but also shares life experiences.
His family life has also been a struggle. His wife is visually impaired, and together they care for their 13-year-old daughter and 2-year-old son. His daughter carries significant responsibilities from a young age, actively involved in managing household chores and caring for her parents. Music and literature hold a special place in Chaudhary’s life; he occasionally sings and writes poetry. A poem he wrote as a child still reflects his mindset: ‘Though the eyes are closed, the mind never shuts down.’ This belief continuously fuels his forward momentum.
Society’s attitude toward people with disabilities is gradually becoming positive. “Those who once looked down on me now speak with respect and seek advice,” he says. He is specially invited to village events and has become not just an individual but a source of experience and inspiration. In his view, people with disabilities need opportunities, not pity. “We should not be deemed weak and left behind; if given a chance, we can work too,” he asserts.
