Power of dedication: Tribal youths Lalu Bhoi and Aryan Ekka become inspiration for other youths

“Take up one idea. Make that one idea your life; dream of it; think of it; live on that idea. Let the brain, the body, muscles, nerves, every part of your body be full of that idea, and just leave every other idea alone. This is the way to success.” 

The above immortal quote made over a century back by Swami Vivekananda is more relevant for the youths like Lalu Prasad Bhoi and Aryan Ekka, who are driving force of tomorrow. They have proved that taking birth in a poor family is not a hindrance to follow your dreams. 

While Kalahandi-based Lalu has qualified for World Junior Athletics Championship to be held at Colombia from August 1-6, the new sprint sensation Aryan who hails from Sundargarh has shined in the Men's 200m at the Indian Grand Prix as he won second position in 200 metre and 100 metre racing. 

Lalu, who finished third in the Men’s long jump with 7.58 m in the Indian Grand Prix-4, is the son of a daily wager, Kartik Bhoi while his mother Golapi Bhoi cooks at a hostel. They reside at Langigada Ashramapada.  

Lalu is currently busy doing practice at Kalinga Stadium to give his best at the championship. Lalu’s proud parents claim that he was very hard working from childhood and he made his dream come true by working hard. 

Similarly Aryan from Barilepta village of Nuagaon block of Sundargarh district is a new sprint sensation on the board. Born to Sukra Ekka and Mirkha Ekka, he had once come to watch a hockey match at Sports Hostel in Sundargarh. But destiny has some other plans for him. 

With his determination and hard work, he became a sprinter. He is hopeful of giving his best at the upcoming federation cup to get ticket for World Junior Athletics Championship. 

Both Lalu and Aryan have become a source of inspiration for other youths of their community.