In a tiny, poor village in the state of Assam, India, Abdul was born to caring parents. While his parents were shocked and confused to see his differently-formed hands, they loved him and were determined to help him reach his full potential.
Abdul’s father left for work early each morning, earning daily wages at the railway station while his mother stayed home to care for him. As he grew, she taught him how to be independent and embrace his abilities. Though his childhood had a lot of challenges, with the unwavering support of his mother, he was admitted to a neighboring school. Initially he found it difficult to write but gradually he learned by holding a pencil with his two fingers. He was not going to let a disability overtake his life.
In 2011, Abdul was overjoyed to learn he had been chosen by a Chalice sponsor, which brought great relief to his family who struggled to afford his schooling. The help, support, and guidance of his sponsor was invaluable, and provided a great source of inspiration for his studies.