Durga Bahadur Gurung’s life began in Chitwan, a beautiful district of Nepal. Life had presented him with a daunting challenge - he was diagnosed with leprosy in 1996. As the disease gradually took hold of his body, causing damage to his nerves and weakening his limbs, Durga's hope flickered in the face of superstition and a lack of understanding. Yet, within the shadows of despair, a glimmer of light emerged. Durga's path intersected with Anandaban Hospital, a place that would forever change his destiny. The hospital became a sanctuary of healing, providing him with comprehensive treatment and offering relief to his weakened confidence. However, despite the medical progress, the shadow of stigma and discrimination still haunted him within his community.
Despite his darkest moments, Durga sought guidance from his sister, a leprosy survivor who worked at a rehabilitation center in Kathmandu. This center embraced persons affected by leprosy, employing them to create handmade crafts. It was here that Durga found his purpose and the courage to forge a new path. Durga immersed himself in the craft, using wood, horn, and animal bone to produce exquisite handmade items. His determination and unwavering spirit transformed him into a skilled artisan, and his talents were acknowledged when he was appointed as the supervisor of the handicraft department.
However, a global economic downturn casted a shadow of uncertainty over Durga's newfound hope. He had no choice but to make a bold decision - to establish his own handicraft production and sales business. With the support of the FOUND Project, Durga acquired the necessary equipment and machinery, igniting the spark of entrepreneurship within him. His creative process knew no boundary as he crafted artistic bracelets, pandans, wooden products, Christmas decorations, incense holders, singing bowl sticks, etc.
Durga's perseverance and unwavering dedication bore fruit, lifting his business to new heights. Not only did he thrive as an entrepreneur, but he also extended his hand to those in need, providing employment opportunities to individuals affected by leprosy at his handicraft center.
Today, Durga's life is a testament to the power of resilience and the triumph of the human spirit. He walks with his head held high, as a respected individual in his community. He has transformed into an inspiring tower of hope, reminding us all that with determination and unwavering belief, we can shape our destinies and create a better world for ourselves and those around us.
