“Echoes of Empathy: A Woman Within Me”

My name is Keshav, and I’m currently immersed in the profound work of rehabilitating children with special needs and empowering their caregivers in the serene landscapes of Dolvi Village Maharashtra. This journey isn’t just about my profession; it’s a tribute to the resilience and love of a woman who shaped my existence – my mother.

Hailing from the rural terrain of Madhepura, Bihar, my upbringing was a testament to the struggles faced by families in such settings. My mother, with only a fifth-grade education, poured all her hopes into me, dreaming of a better future despite the harsh realities of patriarchy and poverty that surrounded us.

I vividly recall the sacrifices she made to ensure I received a good education. Private schooling was an unattainable luxury, but she pinned her hopes on Navodya Vidhyalay for my admission. Fate, however, had its own plans, and I witnessed firsthand the disappointment etched on her face.

It was these moments that ignited a flame within me – a desire to make a difference, to honor my mother’s sacrifices, and to bring hope to those like her. Following my graduation in computer applications, I pursued further studies in social work and psychology, always with a vision of uplifting rural communities.

In 2019-20, the opportunity to work at the Regional Centre (CRC Bhopal) of the Ali Yavar Jung National Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities Divyangjan unfolded before me. Here, I encountered the world of children with special needs, each with their unique challenges and stories.

One particular encounter left an indelible mark on my soul. A mother, with tears streaming down her face, expressed her daily struggles to balance caregiving with household chores. Her plea to adjust therapy timings to accommodate her responsibilities resonated deeply with me,
evoking memories of my own mother’s sacrifices.

At that moment, I made a silent vow to be the voice of empathy and understanding for mothers like her. Thus began my journey of working closely with caregivers, predominantly mothers, and their children with special needs in rural areas.

People often inquire about the source of my empathy and inspiration. To them, I simply respond, “A woman inside me.” It’s the echoes of my mother’s love, perseverance, and sacrifice that guide me in this noble endeavor, shaping every interaction, decision, and intervention along the
way.