At 34 years old, I find myself reflecting on an incident that happened over 30 years ago but still feels as fresh as if it happened yesterday. I once roamed the streets as a child before finding refuge in an orphanage. These experiences have given me a deep empathy for those enduring similar hardships.
Recently, I visited an NGO near Madhyamgram, West Bengal, with my mentor, Sumit Sarkar. This NGO is run by a remarkable woman in her mid-40s, who is striving to improve the lives of 50 girls aged 5 to 21. She provides for their daily needs, including food, clothing, medicine, and education, despite facing severe financial challenges.
Hearing her recount how they sometimes go without food due to lack of funds was heart-wrenching. Despite these difficulties, she has managed to secure help from ONGC to build the first floor of their facility and from another benefactor for the second floor.
Inspired by her dedication, my mentor and I decided to contribute to this cause. Starting today, I will donate a monthly amount to the NGO, and my mentor has made a substantial contribution as well. Additionally, I plan to offer my skills in mathematics by teaching the girls twice a month at my home.
This selfless woman has also helped five girls get married, and these women now return to the NGO during special occasions like Jamai Shashthi. Her efforts remind me that there are many beautiful souls who make life better for others through their generosity.
Reflecting on my own past, I remember my time in an orphanage from 1993 to 1994, before being adopted by my father. I often wonder what my life would be like if I hadn't been adopted—perhaps I might have ended up as an auto-rickshaw driver or a vegetable vendor. I feel privileged and fortunate for the opportunities I received, which are not available to everyone.
According to 2022 data, there are around 30 million orphans in India, yet the adoption rate remains alarmingly low, at only 5,000 per year. Despite the passage of time, societal preferences for biological children over adopted ones remain largely unchanged, even among our so-called heroes who have multiple biological children but do not advocate for adoption.
This is a serious social issue that demands our attention. Once we have met our basic needs, it is our social responsibility to think about those who cannot provide for themselves. Today, I have found my purpose: to support these underprivileged children and help create a better society.
If you feel moved to contribute, please connect with me for more details. Together, we can build a more beautiful society and give a fair chance to those who are not as privileged as we are.
Spread love, positivity, and happiness.
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