BARIPADA: Notwithstanding her twin disabilities, Jashmi Hembrom (18) has excelled in drawing and painting. She was born deaf and dumb.
Her latent talent was first discovered by the art teacher of Police Line High School, Baripada, where she studied up to Class X. But poor economic condition of her father is an impediment for Jashmi to pursue her interest. She can’t even afford a painting brush, colours or a drawing paper with the small pension money that her father Kanhu Charan Majhi, a retired police constable, gets. Kanhu has his constraints as he has to look after a seven-member family.
Fortunately, she came in contact with Sadhana, a Mayurbhanj-based NGO that works for improving the quality of life of persons with disability, especially children. With the help of Sadhana, Jashmi started drawing paintings on greeting cards. And soon her works got rave reviews.
‘Her paintings on greeting cards are gradually gaining popularity,’’ said Ranjit Mahapatra, director, Sadhana.
On the occasion of International Day for Persons with Disabilities, a ‘sit and draw’ competition was organised here today.
Jashmi got a chance to participate in the competition, but unfortunately she could not make it due to death of a relative. However, her works were displayed in an exhibition organised on the occasion.
Even Collector Promod Meherda, impressed by her paintings, took a creation to decorate his home.
About 500 children with disabilities took part in the competition.