Manu Thomas of Pathanamthitta in Kerala is an ordinary person scripting a heartwarming tale of resilience and determination. Having lost the ability to walk at the tender age of five due to a debilitating illness that paralysed his legs, this 42-year-old has defied all odds to become a successful farmer.
By managing over four acres of farmland at Vechoochira where he grows all sorts of vegetables, Manu Thomas alias Varghese has proved that the human spirit knows no bounds when it comes to pursuing one’s passions. His journey to triumph over adversity is an inspiration to many.
Manu was diagnosed with a rare disease at the age of five that left him unable to walk. However, this setback did not deter his dreams of leading a fulfilling and independent life. Manu, who has studied only up to tenth standard, is supported by his father Raju Thomas and his fourth standard son Ebel Thomas in the farming activities. “We moved to Vechoochira in 2013 from Palakkad where we had settled for rubber farming. We decided to return to our native place in Vechoochira because we have an emotional connection to this place and wanted to do farming,” Manu told “Open Digest“.
After putting in years of hard work, Manu’s farm is a testament to his indomitable spirit. He has transformed the land into a thriving farm teeming with a variety of vegetables and bustling livestock. Despite the physical limitations, Manu manages every aspect of the farm, from planting and harvesting to raising hens and cows. “I was doing a small business in Palakkad. Though my family has been traditional farmers, my physical disability prevented me from taking up farming. But as I loved farming, I decided to give it a try when we moved back to Vechoochira,” Manu said.
However, the journey has not been without its challenges. “Many doubted if I could manage a farm, considering my condition,” he says. “But I was determined to prove them wrong and show that with the right attitude and hard work, anything is possible,” he added.Manu’s life is a testament to the power of perseverance and a reminder that setbacks can be turned into stepping stones to success. As he navigates his farm on his tri-scooter, tending to crops and caring for his livestock, Manu stands tall not limited by his tri-wheeler but propelled by his unyielding spirit.
Be First to Comment