Odisha Farmer's Nine-Year Journey of Compassion and Service
In the quiet village of Samleipadar in Bargarh district's Bijepur block, a remarkable story of selflessness unfolds daily. Jalandhar Patel, a 51-year-old farmer with a modest income, has been operating an old-age home for abandoned and destitute senior citizens for the past nine years, offering them a life of dignity and care.
A Legacy of Service Inspires Lifelong Mission
Born in the same village as freedom fighter and social reformer Parbati Giri, Patel grew up deeply influenced by her legacy of selfless service. Following Giri's death in 1995, Patel became increasingly involved in social activities. During Giri's birth anniversary events, he witnessed firsthand the plight of poor and elderly individuals who came seeking food and support.
"That moment planted the idea of creating a permanent shelter for those abandoned by their families," Patel recalled, describing the turning point that would shape his life's work.
Building a Sanctuary from Scratch
With unwavering support from his wife Jasabanti and their two children, Patel established the 'Manav Kalyan Bikash Kendra' and began saving a substantial portion of his farm earnings. After nearly three years of diligent saving, he purchased 78 decimals of land on the outskirts of his village in 2015.
By 2017, he had constructed a modest home that initially accommodated 10-15 people. He named it 'Parbati Giri Old Age Orphanage' and inaugurated it on January 19, 2017, in honor of the freedom fighter who inspired him.
Overcoming Challenges and Expanding Care
The initial days presented significant challenges. The home had no electricity, prompting Patel to install solar panels and an inverter. Later, with government support, the facility received electricity, water supply, toilets, and road connectivity.
"I purchased the land from my farming income and built the shelter for abandoned elderly people," Patel explained. "Before opening it, I formed a committee of villagers and identified the first five inmates from Bargarh district who agreed to stay. Since then, my family and I have been serving them."
Over time, Patel expanded the home, which now houses 28 elderly inmates—15 women and 13 men—all aged above 70 years.
Daily Operations and Financial Commitment
Patel and his wife personally look after the inmates, while a cook prepares their meals. His 26-year-old son and 22-year-old daughter are also actively involved in the daily operations. The farmer bears almost all operational costs, spending approximately:
- Rs 45,000 on food monthly
- Rs 15,000 on medicines monthly
- Total monthly expenditure: Rs 70,000
Occasionally, villagers donate food on birthdays, anniversaries, or remembrance days, providing additional support to the home.
Sustaining the Mission Through Farming
Farming remains Patel's only source of income. He cultivates marigold on four acres and grows rice and vegetables on another three acres. From this agricultural output, he not only supports the old-age home but also runs his six-member family, which includes his father and sister.
The COVID-19 lockdown brought severe challenges to this delicate balance. "I struggled to run the home during Covid-19," Patel recalled. "I had to buy groceries on credit, and a few people helped. But I never thought of giving up."
Comprehensive Care Beyond Shelter
Patel's commitment extends beyond basic shelter. When an inmate falls ill, he drives them to the hospital in his own autorickshaw and stays until treatment is completed. He also performs last rites for unclaimed bodies of the poor and helpless, ensuring dignity in death as well as life.
"Serving them gives my family immense happiness. Bringing a smile to their faces is our only goal. I will continue this work as long as I live," Patel declared with conviction.
Future Plans and Lasting Impact
Looking ahead, Patel plans to construct additional rooms to accommodate more elderly people in need. His story stands as a powerful testament to how individual determination, supported by family commitment, can create meaningful social change.
This farmer's nine-year journey demonstrates that true service requires not just compassion but sustained financial commitment and personal sacrifice. In a world often focused on material accumulation, Jalandhar Patel's life reminds us that the greatest wealth lies in giving dignity to those society has forgotten.
