Nayagarh: A friend in need is a friend indeed, a saying that vouches for true value of good friends in life. Meet two such friends who have been practicing it in true spirits in their lives.
They are Nikilesh Pradhan and Roshan Pradhan of Nayagarh Autonomous College. Nikilesh is a student of Plus II 2nd year while Roshan studies in Plus III 1st year.
The two are native of Takarmala village under Saniketa panchayat of Daringibadi block in Kandhamal district. At present, they stay at the Jadumani boys’ hostel of the college.
Nikilesh had lost his left hand in an accident during his childhood. He got in contact with Roshan while studying in Class VI of a village school and became his friend. Life was full of fun.
One day their friends invited them to take part in a cricket match. But Nikilesh couldn’t go there due to his disability. However, Roshan stood by him and taught him how to play cricket in one hand. He even trained him the swimming. Later, they two moved on with their life.
While Nikhilesh moved to Dasapalla to make a career in sports, Roshan went to Bhubaneswar to pursue studies. But they stayed in touch and the friendship remained intact. They fully enjoy each other’s company whenever they return to the village.
After a few years, the two got united again at Nayagarh Autonomous College. Roshan was earlier junior to Nikilesh in classes but now he is senior. But this has not affected their friendship. Even as they have got separate rooms, they are always seen together except for the study hours.
The way Nikilesh plays cricket in just one hand is unbelievable to many. He is also good at athletics. He has tasted success at the national level also.
While Nikilesh aspires to become a sportsman in future, Roshan nurtures a dream to become a doctor. The friendship is intact now and it would continue in future, the two said.
PNN