An Inspirational Life (December 12, 1962 – March 15, 2024)

Rajesh Ji (Raju), fondly known for his resilience and determination, was an inspiration throughout his life. Rajesh Ji was born on December 12, 1962, in Faizabad to Rameshchandra and Dharma Agrawal. He was an active child with a passion for sports. He excelled at cycling races and helped his football team win matches. Even as he grew older, his love for sports, especially cricket, remained.

At around the age of 10-11, Rajesh Ji’s family noticed that whenever he fell while playing, he had to use his knees to get up. This led to a visit to Dr. N. N. Gupta at Lucknow Medical College, where tests and a biopsy confirmed that Rajesh Ji had pseudo muscular dystrophy, a rare and incurable condition where muscles gradually turn to fat. This condition would eventually affect his entire body.

The diagnosis came as a severe blow to the family. At that time, Rajesh Ji was in 7th grade. Despite these challenges, Rajesh Ji showed immense courage and continued his education until Class 12. Eventually, climbing stairs became too difficult, forcing him to leave formal education. Unfortunately, there were no ramps available back then for students with disabilities.

After leaving school, Rajesh Ji refused to remain idle. His family helped set up a fertilizer shop, “Agrawal Khad Bhandar,” for him in Masaudha Bazaar, which was later expanded to include a cement agency. His dedication and honesty made the shop popular in the area. Rajesh Ji, known lovingly as “Bhaiyya,” became a reliable support to his family, contributing economically from the young age of 18. Every day, despite the difficulties, he traveled the 700-meter distance from his home to the shop, often falling but never losing hope.

In 1991, his younger brother Vikas opened a medical shop named “Agrawal Agency” in Rikabganj, Faizabad. Rajesh Ji soon became an integral part of managing it, showcasing exceptional skills in accounting and an incredible memory. Despite being in a wheelchair, which often caused painful sores, Rajesh Ji worked tirelessly. His determination to live a dignified life was supported by the unwavering love of his family. Rajesh Ji chose not to marry, given his physical limitations, and became a cherished part of his brother Vikas’ family, adored as a loving uncle to the children.

Over time, Rajesh Ji’s condition worsened. By November 2023, even his hands were affected, and he could no longer visit the shop regularly. However, his will to live and his hope for recovery never wavered. Despite his indomitable spirit, Rajesh Ji peacefully passed away on March 15, 2024.

Rajesh Ji was not only hardworking and courageous but also deeply empathetic, always sharing in the joys and sorrows of those around him. His determination truly embodied the famous saying: “Life should be large, not long.” Though Rajesh Ji is no longer with us, his story of strength and perseverance will continue to inspire all who hear it.