Lighting up Lives – the Kalpaswe Way
When Kalpaswe was born, her mother, a student of psychology felt that something was certainly amiss. She asked the doctor whether the child was “Mongol”. In those days, Persons with Down syndrome were called that since there was no awareness at all. But her doctor pooh‐poohed the idea saying the child looked like her father and seemed perfectly alright. But her mother’s instincts said and proved otherwise.
Growing up, Kalpaswi was very fond of colors. Her constant companions were her color pencils. Scribbling and dabbling with colors, Kalpaswi’s world revolved around them. It saddened her that she was not invited for birthday parties in the neighborhood and not allowed to play with other children. However, her mom started playing with her to encourage other children to do the same. Kalpaswi’s favorite day was her birthday when all kids came home with gifts and played with her.
Kalpaswi wasn’t able to go to school due to her multiple medical issues. She was paralysed for 3 months, had other difficulties which prevented her from going to school . She joined Dilkhush Special School where her talent bloomed. Her fondness for colors was evident when her mom allowed her to decorate the walls of a room with colors. She did not move from the room till the whole room was done.
When she was about 15 years old, a lady in the neighborhood taught children to make various crafts from clay. Kalpaswi found her passion here as she started designing Diyas using the clay. Today Kalpaswi’s Diyas are sought after in her chosen circle.
From being a friendless child to a young woman lighting up lives of others, Kalpaswi sure has come a long way.
