Manju Kumari wants to be a singer!

Manju in class

Manju Kumari is 14 years old and is completely blind. Despite her lack of sight, Manju aspires to become a professional background singer and sing in Indian movies!

Manju was born with normal eyesight, but started losing it when she was in grade 3. By the time she reached grade 5, she was completely blind and could no longer continue her studies in a regular school.

Her parents brought her to Amar Jyoti in order to help her pursue her studies and battle with the hard reality that she could no longer see.

Manju participating in the morning exercise session at Amar Jyoti

Manju joined Amar Jyoti when she was in 3rd grade. She started learning Braille in English as it’s easier to read and write Braille in English than in other languages. Manju was learning English for the first time since the government school she attended before was not an English-medium school. Manju improved her English and Braille quickly and was able to continue her studies.

Manju has now been integrated into a regular class which means that very few or none of her classmates suffer from any physical or mental handicap.

Manju participating in the morning school choir

Manju would have been in 9th grade had she not lost her vision. Her teachers are encouraging her to attempt the 10th grade exam in a year’s time so that she can make up for 2 years of academic loss.

While Manju may never get her eyesight back, she has learnt to fight back with the help of Amar Jyoti.

Manju practising for a music competition

At Amar Jyoti, Manju has been exposed to a variety of extra-curricular activities. She has developed a special interest in music and is part of the school choir.

Currently, she is practicing for a national level music competition to be held next month in the city of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Manju leaving for her home,after school,with friends

Manju’s education at Amar Jyoti has been made possible because of generous donors like you!

While Manju will be able to complete her education because of the scholarship made possible by donations to Amar Jyoti, there are several other aspiring students like her who continue to struggle because of financial hardships.

Help Amar Jyoti and support the tuition fee for a child now!