MGM IoP Ability Award presented to Sai Kaustuv Dasgupta

Sai Kaustuv Dasgupta, known as the 'Wheelchair Warrior of India', was conferred with the prestigious Ability Award at a ceremony held at Rukhmini Auditorium, MGM University Campus, in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (earlier known as Aurangabad), on Wednesday.

This was the third edition of the award which was constituted in 2020 by the Institute of Physiotherapy (IoP) of Mahatma Gandhi Mission (MGM) to appreciate the indomitable spirit of special persons who inspire society with their incredible efforts and talents.

Dasgupta has been given the award for actively campaigning for the rights of the specially-abled. Sai is diagnosed with a rare medical condition called 'osteogenesis imperfecta', better known as brittle bone disease, and suffered more than 50 fractures and his bones are completely fused.

His condition has come to such a pass that he can move only one finger in his left hand. But showing his indomitable spirit, Dasgupta designs graphics and multimedia for international companies with that one finger.

Dasgupta is also a global motivational speaker and a certified Happiness Coach. He has adorned acclaimed stages like TEDx.

During the Ability Award ceremony, Dasgupta inaugurated a new ramp facility in the auditorium. MGM vice-chairman Dr. P.M. Jadhav and its secretary Ankushrao Kadam presented the award to Dasgupta along with a citation and cash award of Rs 10,000. IoP Vice-Principal Dr. Sarath Babu and its administrative officer Prerana Dalvi awarded another cash prize of Rs 10,000 to him which was contributed by the department faculty.

In his speech, Dasgupta expressed his sincere thanks to the MGM management for encouraging special people with this kind of award event. He called upon the young students to believe in their abilities which shall take them to greater heights in their life.

MGM Medical College dean Dr. Rajendra Bohra, Vice-Chancellor of MGM University Dr. Vilas Sapkal and Registrar of the university Dr. Ashish Gadekar were present in the award ceremony, which was attended by the students from various MGM institutions.