Parimala

Parimala was naturally left-handed. But had to learn to write using her right hand. 

For centuries, left-handed children were subject to widespread misunderstanding and discrimination. In classrooms, homes, and even religious spaces, being left-handed was often seen not as a natural variation, but as a problem to be corrected. Yet, despite these challenges, many left-handed individuals not only adapted but excelled—often developing unique strengths in the process.

A History of Mistrust

The roots of prejudice against left-handedness run deep. In many languages and cultures, the word for “left” carries negative connotations. The Latin word sinistra—from which we get the English word “sinister”—originally meant “left” but later came to imply evil or misfortune. In religious contexts, the right hand was often associated with virtue and blessing, while the left hand was linked to impurity or deceit.

These associations weren’t just symbolic. Well into the 20th century, it was common for schools to forcibly train left-handed children to use their right hand for writing and other tasks. Teachers might tie a child’s left hand behind their back or punish them for using it. The goal was conformity, but the impact was often confusion, anxiety, and hindered learning.

Left in a Right-Handed World

Beyond social stigma, left-handed children had to navigate a world designed for right-handed people. Scissors, desks, can openers, musical instruments, and even handwriting systems (especially cursive) were designed with right-handers in mind. Writing from left to right in ink posed practical problems, often resulting in smudged work and frustration.

These obstacles created daily friction that could undermine a child’s confidence and academic performance. In some cases, the forced switch to right-handedness led to stuttering, difficulty with coordination, and other developmental setbacks.

Resilience in Action

And yet, many left-handed children thrived—some in spite of the pressure, and some because of the resilience it fostered. The human brain’s remarkable neuroplasticity enables many left-handers to become ambidextrous or to develop highly adaptable skills. These individuals often grow up with a heightened ability to switch between tasks, think creatively, and solve problems in novel ways.

Research has also suggested that left-handed people may excel in areas such as music, visual arts, architecture, and even mathematics—fields that benefit from strong spatial reasoning and creative thinking.

Perhaps most striking is the list of high-achieving left-handers throughout history: Leonardo da Vinci, Marie Curie, Albert Einstein, Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey. Their accomplishments remind us that being different can be a source of power, not limitation.

Changing Perspectives

Today, left-handed children are more accepted, though subtle biases still exist. The availability of left-handed tools, inclusive teaching practices, and growing awareness of neurodiversity have all contributed to a more supportive environment. Still, the legacy of past prejudice remains an important reminder: what society labels as “other” or “wrong” can simply be a different—and equally valid—way of being.

In the story of left-handed children, we find a broader message about inclusion, adaptability, and the quiet strength of those who thrive in systems not built for them.