Narayan Seva Ashram, a sanctuary for 35 abandoned children who were once left to fend for themselves. The ashram was founded by 67-year-old Hare Ram Pandey and his wife Bhavani, whose selfless mission began two decades ago when they rescued their first child – a baby girl who was found in a coma, abandoned in the bushes.
“I still remember the moment I saw her lying there, helpless and covered in ants. We rushed her to the best child specialist. She fought for her life for 21 days and finally recovered. Bhavani and I always wanted a daughter, so we decided to raise her as our own. We named her Tapasi.”- Hare Ram Pandey
This life-changing incident inspired the couple to dedicate themselves to rescuing and raising abandoned children, providing them with love, care, and opportunities for a better future.
“When I first saw Tapasi, all I could think was – How could anyone abandon these angels? They deserve to live and I resolved to help as many girls as I could.” - Hare Ram Pandey
‘Our neighbours questioned why we were helping these low-caste children of sex workers…’
Over the years, Pandeyji and Bhavani have opened their hearts and homes to children abandoned on streets, in bushes, or even in train toilets. Whenever an abandoned girl was found, whether by the local or railway police or the local administration in Deoghar, they would turn to Pandey for help. Fondly called Baba (dad) by the girls, Pandey and his wife would warmly embrace each new arrival as another cherished 'daughter' into their family. Today, their ashram shelters 35 children, most of them girls, aged between 5 and 25. The ashram ensures comprehensive care, including nutritious meals, education, and a safe environment. However, the journey has not been easy.
“We had nights when we didn’t even have enough fuel to heat milk for the babies. Once, I sold our mixer grinder to buy food for them. There were times when neighbors questioned why we were bringing these children home, especially those from lower castes or born to s*x workers. But I always told them, ‘They are my kids, and I will protect them till my last breath.”- Bhavani
I feel like my wife is Maa Durga’s embodiment. No matter how many children I adopted, she stayed up all night, caring for them with love.
Despite their struggles, Pandeyji and Bhavani have created a nurturing environment where their children can thrive Two of their daughters, Khushi and Tapasi, have recently passed their school finals with first-division marks and dream of becoming doctors. Notably, two of the children are preparing for the NEET exam, aspiring to pursue careers in medicine. The ashram strives to create a nurturing environment that fosters growth and opportunities for every child.
“I have promised to sell my agricultural land to support their dreams, but I don't know if that will be enough.” Pandeyji says with both determination and fear.
Several other children have gone on to pursue higher education or secure jobs, while a few have been married into loving families. However, the ashram still faces constant financial challenges, relying heavily on donations to meet daily expenses.
How you can help these girls who need your support
Running the ashram requires significant resources for food, education, medical care, and other basic needs. Despite their best efforts, Pandeyji and Bhavani struggle to sustain their mission.
I am about to turn 70. I easily get tired these days. My hand trembles, when I use them. I also keep falling here, and there. I don’t have a job as well.
“We want to give these children a life filled with love, opportunities, and happiness. But we cannot do this alone. We need your support to continue providing for them and helping them achieve their dreams,” says Pandeyji.
I also want to help little girls of my village, whose entire childhood is being spent as goat herders. But I am unable to educate, or feed them as well.
Your contribution can help Pandeyji, continue his incredible work of raising and empowering abandoned children. It can provide these children with a safe home, access to education, and hope for a brighter future.
Click here to donate and make a difference in the lives of these children.
EIN 20-5139364
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