Cancer Survivor Kalidas Saha Transforms Life into Service in Dhubri
Kalidas Saha, a 61-year-old resident of Dhubri, Assam, has turned his personal battle with cancer into a lifelong mission of community service and environmental stewardship. His journey from a cancer diagnosis to becoming a beacon of hope in his region is a testament to human resilience and dedication.
From Cancer Battle to Environmental Crusade
In 2006, Saha faced a daunting diagnosis of lung cancer and underwent intensive treatment at Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai. During his year-long battle, which included 12 chemotherapy sessions and 24 radiation therapies, doctors emphasized the critical role of oxygen for survival. This revelation sparked a profound realization in Saha.
"I made a firm resolve that if I survived and returned home, my life's purpose would be planting and nurturing saplings into trees. By God's grace, I was cured after the treatments," Saha recounted. True to his word, upon full recovery, he embarked on a mission that has now spanned over two decades.
Multifaceted Contributions to Society
Since his recovery, Saha has dedicated himself to multiple avenues of community betterment:
- Environmental Efforts: He has tirelessly planted saplings and developed roadside gardens across Dhubri, contributing to local greenery and air quality.
- Cultural Engagement: As a commerce graduate with a passion for contemporary art, Saha has written over 35 street plays, five one-act plays, and one full-length play. He has staged more than 100 performances over the past 32 years, enriching the cultural fabric of his community.
- Educational Outreach: Recognizing the importance of education, Saha runs a free English grammar school every Sunday, specifically targeting underprivileged students. He conducts these classes in a room provided by a local cultural organization and even supplies pens and paper to his pupils. Two women teachers have joined him in this noble endeavor.
Recognition and Ongoing Impact
Saha's unwavering commitment has not gone unnoticed. In 2012, the Dhubri district administration honored him with a felicitation and award on Independence Day, acknowledging his contributions to society. Numerous other institutions have also recognized his efforts.
Now at 61, his enthusiasm remains undiminished. Saha continues to inspire those facing personal struggles, exemplifying how adversity can be transformed into a force for good. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have through perseverance and a heart for service.
Through tree planting, cultural performances, and free education, Kalidas Saha has planted seeds of hope that will grow for generations to come in Dhubri.
