The genuine anguish that led to the inception of Niharkona Rehabilitation Centre was a result of what I faced regularly as a daily commuter from Behala to Dumdum; the platform was, and still is, swarming with under-priviledged children, a word used to disguise their destitution- both physical and moral. This picture of disadvantage childhood, if it still could be termed 'childhood' became a regular fixture. Day after day we were greeted by little hands clamouring around with begging bowls the moment we alighted from the train. Some were sent off with some money jingling in their pockets, while others had to face a barrage of abuse. Yet, one soon discovered that the money earned through begging was often used for purposes as abysmal and hazardous as sniffing dendrite- an addiction that has become alarmingly common in these circles. Most of these childrens are orphaned, living without the roof of either maternal or parental care. Lacking a permanent shelter, rendered homeless as soon as they are born. they live inside the subways in conditions that could appall and sicken any human being. It was the inhumanity of their present circumstances and made a mockery of the concept of childhood, which made me question humanity and the invisible boundary that separated the priviledged children from the under-priviledged ones.
As a human being, I realised that I had certain resources at my disposal which could be used for the upliftment and benifit of these poor children. Even if I could not possibly bring in a wave of change into everyone's life, I could certainly make a difference to some. I thought long and hard, wondering whether or not it would be possible to deviate for once from the path of all-consuming selfishness in order to lend a helping hand to these little children. Reaching a tangible decision was preceded by hours of soul-researching and extended conversations with my family members. They provided me not with encouragement, but also warnings that helped me stay grounded instead of taking flights of fancy regarding this venture. It was an uphill task, I was repeatedly reminded, but I was equiped to confront all obstacles.
With the aid of family, friends and well wishers, i started this organisation in 2007under the name of my dearly beloved grandmother, Niharkona Debi. At the outset the effort found only a handful of takers, but gradually it gathered steam as the years rolled on. Initially, I personally financed the expenses relating to food-provisions, lodging and education of the children- however, in this manner it is not possible to reach out a large audience. Even though I was overwhelmed by a sense of achivement I realized one crucial thing: Counting, or sustaining a endeavour is harder than simply initiating it. To muster up that kind of energy, ardour and enthusiasm every year is a task in itself. It is for these reason that I seek the help of like minded individuals who would be willing to contribute, monetarily or otherwise, to this enterprise that promises to alleviate the sufferings of some children, at the very least.