New Dawn for the Abandoned

Disowned by families, all were brought to the streets of the town of Medak, Andhra Pradesh. Parmesh was a hockey enthusiast who played for Nizamabad, and was famous for his stick work, but after a surgery he became a total wreck. Latif was an accountant, and was known for his ability to solve complex problems; today, a simple activity like combing his own hair seems complicated. A nudge is all that Sultan needs to croon popular Hindi songs. Darshan, who looks as if he has not had a bath for years, hovers around a dustbin, reaching out for leftovers. Jhansi Bai only remembers that she is from Chhattisgarh, and travelled by a train. Ill-clad and derelict, fortunately for these five, a district collector of Medak, V Venkatesham, happened to spot them.

The compassionate man took it upon himself to give them a new look and a newer life. He brought together a team of social activists to counsel and persuade them to be rehabilitated. Another team, armed with razors, soaps and towels, cleaned them up. A hall in the district hospital campus is now their new home. Supported by psychiatrists and counsellors, they are picking up the threads of their long forgotten life. One man's care and compassion has resurrected five forgotten lives.