Show of grit by differently-abled Odisha artistes at India Gate

New Delhi/Bhubaneswar: India Gate in New Delhi was abuzz with activity on International Day of Persons with Disabilities, being observed today. The day saw several participants determined not to let their disability get in the way of their passion.

Among them were Odisha’s Mithilesh Patnaik with down syndrome and Shakti Swarupavil with hearing and speech impairment.

Beautiful performance by Mithilesh Patnaik with down syndrom and Shakti Swarupavil with hearing and speech impairment. They have come all the way from #Odisha to celebrate #IDPD2017 with us!@MSJE_AIC @MSJEGOI @AIFoundation @ONGC_ @ncpedp_india pic.twitter.com/4kkSFjsIG6

— United Nations India (@UNinIndia) December 3, 2017

They gave a beautiful Odissi presentation with poise and grace. Speaking to reporters, Mithilesh said he wants to continue his training in Odissi and become a professional dancer.

I want to become a professional Odissi dancer: Mithilesh Patnaik. What do wish to become? @MSJE_AIC @MSJEGOI @AIFoundation @ONGC_ @ncpedp_india pic.twitter.com/J4XMbbaAgG

— United Nations India (@UNinIndia) December 3, 2017

Bhubaneswar-based Mithilesh has participated in several dance programmes in the Odisha capital and won state awards.

This apart, Nityananda Das too mesmerised the gathering with his Odissi performance. The Bhubaneswar-based dancer performs with one leg.

“To all people with disabilities, I want you to realize that you are as capable as anyone. I am happy that Prime Minister Narendra Modi renamed differently-abled as divyangs,” Das expressed.