Until 2016, Kandalei, a small hamlet just 15 kilometers from the state capital, was a forgotten corner of the world. It was a place where time seemed to stand still, with the tribal families living there deprived of basic amenities like electricity, road connectivity, schooling, and clean drinking water. Despite its proximity to the capital, Kandalei was a stark symbol of neglect, a reminder of the deep social and economic disparities that continue to exist in India.
A Hamlet Rooted in History, Yet Forgotten
Kandalei’s history traces back to the 1960s, when tribal communities from the Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj districts migrated to this area in search of a better life. For decades, these communities lived in isolation, their voices unheard and their needs unmet. The irony of their situation was profound: though they were close to the seat of power, they were far removed from its benefits.
In 2015, the plight of Kandalei came to the attention of Sushant Sahu, a Bhubaneswar-based activist. On a routine visit to the area, Sahu was struck by the sheer lack of development and the dire conditions in which the villagers lived. This encounter left an indelible mark on him, and he resolved to bring about change.
The Beginning of Change: A Mission to Transform
In August 2015, Sahu, along with a group of like-minded individuals, began a mission to transform Kandalei. They started by conducting a thorough needs assessment, identifying the most pressing requirements of the community. The list was long, but Sahu was determined to make a difference.
One of the first projects Sahu undertook was to establish a school in the hamlet. Understanding that education was key to breaking the cycle of poverty, he focused on creating a safe and conducive learning environment for the children. Despite numerous challenges, Sahu succeeded in building a school that has since become a beacon of hope for the community.
Alongside education, Sahu aimed to bring electricity to Kandalei. He and his team worked tirelessly to install solar panels, providing the residents with a reliable source of power for the first time. This effort not only illuminated their homes but also brought a new sense of empowerment to the villagers.
Overcoming Obstacles: A Path Fraught with Challenges
The journey to transform Kandalei was far from easy. Sushant Sahu recalls the difficulties they faced, particularly the poor condition of the only road leading to the hamlet. The path, filled with thorns and leaves, was so treacherous that their motorcycle got stuck, forcing them to clear the road by hand. The dense forest surrounding the hamlet blocked out sunlight, making it feel like they were walking in the dark. Upon their arrival, the villagers were initially frightened, with children running inside their homes and the women peering out cautiously.
Despite these challenges, Sahu persevered. With the help of the village head, Bishnuprasad Deng, and a Delhi-based social organization called Ashra, they built the Kandalei Project Primary School. The school was inaugurated on December 11, 2016, marking the beginning of a new era for Kandalei. Around the same time, the hamlet also gained access to electricity, just before the 2019 General Elections.
A New Dawn for Kandalei: Education, Empowerment, and Progress
The transformation of Kandalei has been nothing short of remarkable. The once-neglected hamlet is now a thriving community where children attend school regularly, equipped with textbooks, toys, and other necessary supplies. The school has not only provided education but has also instilled a sense of discipline and pride among the students. On national days like Independence Day and Republic Day, the children hoist the national flag and learn about great personalities, something that was unimaginable just a few years ago.
The impact of these changes extends beyond education. The Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) provided each family with a solar lantern, ensuring that no home is left in darkness. Solar-powered machines and pumps now supply clean drinking water to the villagers, drastically improving their quality of life. With newfound access to resources, the residents of Kandalei have also taken up agriculture, further boosting the hamlet’s development. Festivals are now celebrated with enthusiasm, and the villagers are more connected to the broader world than ever before.
Collective Efforts: A Community United in Progress
While Sushant Sahu was the catalyst for change, the transformation of Kandalei was a collective effort. He was joined by former Sarpanch Bishnu Prasad Deng, social worker Gopimohan Pattanaik, artist Panchanan Samal, sculptor Subal Maharana, and the headmaster of Kandalei Project Primary School, Pabitra Mohan Nayak, among others. Together, they worked tirelessly to improve the lives of Kandalei’s residents.
This Independence Day, a news agencies honors Sushant Sahu as a true hero who brought the taste of freedom to Kandalei in the truest sense. His selfless efforts have brought hope and prosperity to a hamlet that was once forgotten. Sahu’s dedication and determination serve as a shining example of true patriotism and service to humanity.
A Story of Transformation and Hope
The story of Kandalei is a testament to the power of individual initiative and community engagement. What was once a neglected and isolated hamlet is now a symbol of progress and empowerment. Sushant Sahu’s journey to bring independence to Kandalei is a story of perseverance, determination, and above all, hope. It is a reminder that even the most overlooked corners of the world can be transformed with the right combination of passion and action.
(With inputs from agencies)
