Born without both hands, 13-year-old Lakshmi writes with her feet to stay in school; the Bihar student now dreams of becoming a teacher
For most children, opening a school bag, taking out a notebook or holding a pen are everyday actions that require little thought. For 13-year-old Lakshmi, each of these tasks demands a different kind of effort. Born without both hands, the Class 4 student has learnt to use her feet to manage her schoolwork and continue her education.A video shared by ANI shows Lakshmi opening her school bag with her feet, taking out her books and notebook, turning pages and writing. Despite the physical challenges involved in these everyday activities, the young student continues attending school with one clear ambition for the future: she wants to become a teacher.
A school bag, a notebook and the determination to learn
Lakshmi’s story has drawn attention because of the way she has adapted to continue her education.In the ANI video, she is seen carefully using her feet to open her school bag before taking out her study material. She then positions her notebook and writes using her feet.The routine highlights challenges that many students may never have to consider. Tasks such as opening a bag, handling books and writing notes can require significant effort for a child with disabilities.Yet Lakshmi continues her studies and attends school.Her story is not simply about overcoming a physical limitation. It is also about the importance of ensuring that children with disabilities have opportunities to access education and pursue their ambitions.
Staying in school despite the challenges
Lakshmi studies in Class 4 at a government school in Bihar.Her determination to continue learning has become the central message of her story. While her way of writing and handling school materials may be different, her goal remains similar to that of millions of other students: completing her education and building a future.The ANI video has also prompted reactions online, with several social media users appreciating her perseverance and determination.For Lakshmi, however, education appears to be more than simply attending classes.Her dream is to become a teacher.
Why her dream matters
For a 13-year-old student, becoming a teacher is still a dream that lies years ahead. Lakshmi will have to continue through school and overcome several challenges along the way.But her present journey already reflects the importance of perseverance in education.Children often encounter different obstacles while pursuing their studies — financial difficulties, lack of resources, distance from schools or physical challenges. Lakshmi’s experience demonstrates how determination and access to education can help a student continue moving forward despite those barriers.Her dream of becoming a teacher also adds another dimension to her story.A child who has had to find her own way to write, learn and participate in school now hopes to one day stand in a classroom and help other children learn.
More than an inspiring video
The images of Lakshmi writing with her feet may be what first capture attention, but her story raises a larger question about education and inclusion.How accessible are schools for children with disabilities? Do students receive the support, infrastructure and learning tools they need to participate fully in classrooms?Lakshmi’s determination is undoubtedly remarkable. But her journey also underlines why a child’s access to education should not depend solely on their ability to overcome extraordinary challenges.Every student deserves the opportunity to learn.For now, Lakshmi continues with the tasks that make up an ordinary school day — opening her bag, taking out her books and writing in her notebook — in an extraordinary way.And with every page she writes using her feet, the 13-year-old student is moving a little closer to her dream of becoming a teacher.Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and a video shared by ANI. TOI Education has not independently verified all details mentioned above.
