By Monika Kathuria:
Disability is defined as a physical or mental condition that limits a person’s movements, senses, or activities. But it is merely a term we talk about in our day to day lives. How many of us have actually considered talking to a person/child who we know has some sort of ‘dis-ability’?
I met Rithik during my project preparations for the Special Olympics Social Impact Summit in 2015. He was one of the youth leaders selected to present their ideas to make a more inclusive world. Motivated by his thoughts and his journey I decided to portray his life through the reel. He is 20 years old and has been playing cricket for 10 years now. Being enrolled in the Special Olympics, he teaches unified cricket to both normal and special children. Working with him for this short film was bliss. My life isn’t the same after getting to know him.
Rithik had been diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) when he was a child. But it is his achievement which defines him rather than his disability.
I hope no parent/guardian/caretaker ever gives up on their children, especially those with special needs, and helps them develop to be the best they can in life.
