Braveheart Prity Devi an inspiration for young

IMPHAL - Eleven-year-old braveheart Maibam Prity Devi has become a source of inspiration for young in north eastern states for averting a tragedy and saving many lives.

On March 30, 2009, Prity Devi, a class six student saved many precious lives when she picked up and threw away a grenade hurled at her shop in Imphal bazaar.

Some unidentified militants hurled a grenade at the shop run by Devi’s family.

Instead of running away Devi picked up the grenade risking her own life and threw it away.

Devi’s act of bravery won her a national award.

She received the National Bravery Award from President Pratibha Patil along with 21 other children on Republic Day in New Delhi.

Devi sustained injuries as the grenade exploded a few seconds later, she threw it.

Speaking to ANI Devi shared her dreams.

“I want to be a police officer later. There are many problems in Manipur, and I want to be a part of the system to control violence,” Devi said.

Born to Maibam Sarat Singh and Maibam Ongbi Hemabati Devi, Preity is the third of their four children. Her bravery has made them proud.

“She has saved lives of people and I am very proud of her and her courage. I hope for the best for her in future,” said Sarat Singh, Devi’s father.

“All of us gathered in front of the television to watch the National Award function just to see her. I am very happy for her,” said M. Laima, Devi’s grandmother.

Devi recieved the Geeta Chopra award and was felicitated with medals, cash prize and scholarship offers.

Currently she is studying in Nirmani Public School at Mayang in Imphal Bazaar.(ANI)