New Delhi (Agency): The journey of Kumud Kalita, a teacher in Pathsala Senior Secondary School, serves as an inspiring lesson in compassion and dedication. From being dismissed as a ‘lunatic’ by neighbors to receiving this year’s National Teachers’ Award, Kalita’s mission to provide a nurturing home and education to abandoned specially-abled children has earned widespread acclaim.
Kalita’s selfless endeavor led to the creation of an orphanage-cum-day care center for children with special needs, aptly named ‘Tapoban’. Located in Assam’s Bajali district, the institution houses around 25 children and provides daycare facilities for nearly 90 others with disabilities from nearby areas.
Despite early skepticism, Kalita’s efforts received widespread support. Patrons regularly visit ‘Tapoban’ and contribute financially to the cause. The organization’s success is a testament to Kalita’s perseverance and determination.
The inspiration for helping abandoned or orphaned children with special needs took root during Kalita’s post-graduation studies at Gauhati University. He encountered organizations dedicated to assisting such children and recognized the lack of acceptance and support for them. This realization motivated him to create a safe haven for these children.
One of Kalita’s earliest and impactful actions was adopting a two-year-old girl with cerebral palsy who had been abandoned at the Kamakhya temple in Guwahati in 2009. He named her Kamakshi, and she has since become an integral part of his family.
In addition to providing essential care, ‘Tapoban’ also offers formal education to its residents. Several children from the institution have successfully appeared for matriculation examinations, demonstrating the effectiveness of the education and care provided.
The challenges faced by Kalita during the initial stages were considerable, particularly regarding financial requirements. Hailing from a modest family of farmers, Kalita worked in a restaurant and sold books door-to-door to fund his education. Despite the hurdles, his unwavering dedication led to the realization of his dream project.
Beyond ‘Tapoban’, Kalita’s contributions extend to building a library that hosts an annual week-long book reading program. His efforts have garnered recognition through various awards, including the Best Community Action Award by the Chief Minister of Assam, Rotary Vocational Excellence Award, Sushibrata Roychoudhury Memorial Award, State Level Best Teacher Award, and the Children Champion Award by the Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights.
Kalita’s impact reaches beyond just children, as he hopes to establish a center for elderly people with special needs in the future.
In conclusion, Kumud Kalita’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of compassion and determination. His commitment to abandoned specially-abled children through ‘Tapoban’ showcases the positive impact that an individual can make in their community. The recognition and awards he has received are a testament to the profound difference he has made in the lives of those he serves.