Someone rightly said, “Where there is a will, there is a way”.
People defy challenges as great as paralysis and work hard for their dreams. With their strong will power and utter determination, they make the impossible, possible. No matter what life brings on, some people leave behind the odds to stand out. The extraordinary story of an ex-Indian Army chief, who served the nation for 17 long years, and represented the country twice internationally, is a modern day example of bravery, hard work and dreams beyond boundaries.
Pappu Singh, who lost his left leg in a train accident in 2007, now specializes in defeating players who run on two feet. He transformed his weakness into his biggest strength. He is now a national champion in pistol shooting, and also the captain of the Rajasthan volleyball team.
There were times in his life when he though of giving up, however, something always pushed him to strive for the best. He then started participating in various competitions. The Divya Khel Pratishthan Festival, organized under the aegis of the Disabled Welfare Committee was one such competition.
The festival aimed to provide an opportunity to people with disabilities at the international and national levels. In this festival, games including volleyball, shooting and cultural events were given space. Pappu Singh represented his team and became the center of attraction for all.
Mr. Pappu during a volleyball game
jagran.com
He made his weakness a weapon and represented the country twice in the para volleyball competition internationally. Singh has been playing matches since 1985. In 1988, he joined the army, and in later years represented the country in 45 nations.
He retired in 2004, and after he lost his left leg in the accident, he tried to do the best with whatever he had in his life. He says that there are many events like pistol shooting, athletics, swimming, taekwondo, badminton and powerlifting, where physically challenged people can prove themselves. They just need to know their area of interest and capabilities. Every single person is talented, he just needs to be reinforced, explained Pappu, as per a report.
Apart from this, Pappu Singh has also received an award from Lalu Prasad Yadav, who was the then Railway Minister. Pappu’s journey is truly inspiring and a good lesson for every single person who dares to dream. The story also reminds us of the beautiful lines by Eleanor Roosevelt – “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
