I am Himanshu Bakshi, And I Stand Tall Despite My Short Height

People who are physically challenged are sometimes wrongly regarded by some as people unable to contribute to the society in any meaningful way because of their disability. Take the example of my life which is full of challenges every day. Whenever I step out of my home I see people laughing at me and making cheap comments. I have even witnessed an educated female pointing towards me and telling her son that if he didn’t eat food this was how he would become.

To start with, I’m Himanshu Bakshi, a Chartered Accountant, LLB (6th semester result awaited) and a commerce graduate. I’m currently associated with one of the Big 4 consulting firms. You people might be thinking what’s so special about me. I’m a perfect example of someone who has converted a disability into an opportunity. With my strong will power and dedication I have proved to the world that nothing can stop you if you have strong will power. I always believe that a strong determination and will power is far more important than a strong body.

I’m suffering from dwarfism. My height is 3 ft 8 inches. This disease is seen in one among 25,000 people. I have never been demotivated by the “different-ability” which I’m suffering from. Life has been a rollercoaster ride for me. I lost my dad when I was in my CA final. That has been the lowest point of my life. My dad wanted to see me as a Chartered Accountant. I fulfilled his dream, but the day it got fulfilled he wasn’t there in this world. My mom is the biggest pillar of inspiration for me. I know the worth of my efforts as I have written most of my exams while standing for 3 hours, as the benches were too big for me.

As the saying goes, if God takes away something from you, He replaces it with something you’ve never imagined. That’s evident in case of my life. I’m also a national level current affairs debater. I have participated in many TV talk shows and have been writing articles for many newspapers. I have been giving inspirational lectures to people from all walks of life. I always believe in this quote by the father of our nation, “Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.” I always feel nice when people come and say to me, “Salaam Zindagi”. In my previous organisation I was given the award of inspirational person of the year. I was also featured in the renowned fashion magazine MAXIM, that too in its anniversary issue. I have received awards from many renowned personalities such as Late Mr. Jagjit Singh (Famous Ghazal Singer) and others.

Hoping to inspire many people throughout my life.

– Himanshu Bakshi