It’s all in the mind: The story of a ‘disabled’ Tuhin (video)

He comes to the school early in the morning, takes classes and leaves after everybody. His students are ready to follow his words and they feel bored if he is absent for a day. He is Tuhin, a primary school teacher who cannot stand or walk because of polio in his childhood, 34 years back.  

Overcoming physical challenges, he has made himself close to the heart of teachers and students alike at the West Sitki Primary school in Kathalia under Jhalakathi.

Struggling with his disability, Tuhin finished his Master’s and got first class from B M college Barisal in 2014.  

He was a student of class III in 1981 when he came down with polio. He started to lose control over his body, said Tuhin. Within two-years he lost total control. He was confined in bed for three years from 1983 to 1986.

“My parents and sisters carried me from one place to another,” Tuhin said.

“My poor farmer parents took me to most of the hospitals and renowned doctors in the country for a cure,” he added.

“My strength came back a little in 1987 when I could sit and then could move a little.”

“People called me mad when I took re-admission in class V in 1989 after a seven-year gap.” Tuhin said that people laughed at him when he went to classes but he did not lose courage.

Tuhin entered teaching as a primary school teacher after passing written and oral tests in 2010.

“I never think that I am disabled as I work all day like any other person.” said he.

“Tuhin is very much punctual he is never absent in class.” said Reba Rani Howlader, the headmaster of the school.

“I am so pleased with Tuhin for his outstanding success to manage the students of my school.” added she.

Students are ready to follow Tuhin’s instructions, said Reba, adding that Tuhin is the heart of the students and the school.

“Sometimes he plants trees around the school grounds and takes care of them.” added the headmaster.

“Our classes become fun when Tuhin sir enters the class and we listen to him, he always inspires us for studies.” said Hasib a student of class V.

“Sir inquires about us when we miss class and sometimes calls our parents,” said Monami another student adding that they feel bored at the absence of Tuhin in the school.   

“I feel proud of my husband as he has arranged all pleasures and happiness for me and he is the best husband,” said Hafsa Yeasmin, wife of Tuhin.

“I want to work for the disabled people and for the society, I want to say an idle mind and not wanting to work is the real disability,” said Tuhin.