Para sportsperson, graphic designer& dancer, Kanchan Khot stands for women power in the true sense

Wheelchair basketball team captain, dancer and graphic designer are amongst the few roles that Mysuru-based Kanchan Khot dons. A renowned name in Karnataka’s disability space, Kanchan’s numerous works for the community has been highly appreciated. Kanchan shows the path to becoming an independent woman with a disability.

It was a polio attack at the age of two that left a now 33-year-old Kanchan Khot with a lifelong disability. She was paralyzed, but physical limitations couldn’t stop her from flying high. Kanchan, who hails from Belgaum in Karnataka has moved to different cities to complete her education. A wheelchair user, Kanchan currently works in a Mysuru-based company as their graphic designer. A para-basketball player, she also leads the Karnataka women’s team. Kanchan has won numerous awards and recognitions. But her undying spirits is what makes her stand out from everyone else.

Path to being independent and strong

Being born in Belgaum, Kanchan’s parents knew that their daughter would have better prospects if she moves out of the place. That is how Kanchan completed her education till class 7 at a school for disabled children in Maharashtra. She later moved back to Belgaum, completed a three-year course in diploma in computer sciences before entering job as a graphic designer. She has been working in her current company for over eight years now. Their inclusive set-up and supportive colleagues makes work place bliss for Kanchan.

On asked why she decied to settle down in Mysuru, Kanchan says, “I stay in a hostel for people with disabilities, so it is accessible and disabled friendly. Attitudes of people in Belgaum towards the disabled has often hurt me. Mysuru is much better. I can flourish and prosper here”.

Kanchan has also been instrumental in helping other disabled people. Her relentless work for people with disabilities during the pandemic, like helping over four people procure wheelchairs, has been highly appreciated.

Active in the disability space, Kanchan has organized various events for disabled people including fashion and cultural shows. Her family comprising of parents and siblings support her in all ventures.

Pride of Karnataka for many reasons

Kanchan’s tryst with para sports began in the year 2017. She started playing basketball for fun and to stay healthy. “I never knew I would love the game so much when I started it nor did I think I would take it seriously”, she says. Kanchan is the General Secretary of Karnataka State wheelchair basketball association and also captain for the state women’s team. “Today, playing basketball is my passion”, she says with a smile. Kanchan hopes to bring a gold medal to India for Paralympics and is already preparing for it.

Kanchan, who is also a choreographer, has taught dance to students in her school and now hostel too. “That is yet another activity that keeps me engaged”, she says.

“I believe nothing is impossible. But in order to achieve your dreams, you have to work hard. You must make sure that you have that light within you”, she says.

There is no idle moment for Kanchan. Even during the pandemic, she has her hands full and is busy reaching out to people with disabilities in need.

Watch in Sign Language

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