Balasore: He might not be having limbs but his love and passion for dance hasn't let these limitations confine his dreams, in any way. Prashant Rout, a differently-abled youth of Kuligadi village under Oupada block in Balasore district, has shown that if one has unwavering commitment to achieve something, success will follow.
Years ago, seeing their newborn without a leg and a hand, Prashant’s family went in shock and thought he would be a burden forever. However, his dancing skills have not only earned him success, but he is now able to look after his parents like any other earning member of a family.
“He was born without a leg and a hand. When I brought him home, everyone advised me to abandon him but we nurtured him like other children of the family,” says a proud mother of Prashant.
Since childhood, Prashant was determined and dreamt of becoming a famous dancer. Without limbs he was always looked down, but eventually criticism made him even more stronger. “As I was born without a leg and a hand, everybody thought I will become a burden for them. Except my family, no one loved or supported me. And today, if people are recognizing me, it’s just because of dance,” said Prashant.
Prashant gradually expertised hisdancing skills and took part in television reality shows. He has also started teaching children and youths of his village after getting a house under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). He is living with his three siblings and parents in the village.
“Even though he is disabled, his dance moves are really fast. He wants us to excel in our career,” said a student of Prashant.
“Words will fall short if I start explaining about Sir. His training fetched me a gold medal in district level dance competition in Balasore. He was among top contestants in Dance Odisha Dance and other reality shows," said another student.
Prashant was recently felicitated by Odisha Governor Ganeshi Lal for his achievements. Currently he is working as a choreographer for an Odia movie “Maal Mohu Jiban Mati” starring Sabyasachi.