Kumud Kalita – The Guardian of Abandoned and Differently-Abled Children in Assam

Kumud Kalita – The Guardian of Abandoned and Differently-Abled Children in Assam

KAKALI DAS

Once ridiculed by his neighbours as a “madman” for daring to dream of providing abandoned and differently abled children a home and education, Kumud Kalita has transformed into the devoted guardian and guiding light for those forgotten souls, leading them from the shadows into a life of hope and dignity.

Early Life and Education

Kumud Kalita, born on April 1, 1964, in the quaint village of Niz Saldoh, Assam, has dedicated his life to the betterment of society, particularly the education and welfare of underprivileged and disabled children. His early years were shaped by his humble beginnings and a deep desire to create positive change.

Kalita completed his primary education at Niz Saldoh Primary School and later attended Bongaon High School, where he passed his 10th board exams in 1979. His passion for education continued as he pursued higher secondary education at Bajali Higher Secondary School, graduating in 1982 in the Arts stream. He then earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Bajali College in 1984 and a Master’s degree in Political Science from Guwahati University in 1989.

Invested His Earnings For Social Service

Kumud Kalita’s journey as an educator began in 1989 when he was appointed as a lecturer at Pathsala College, which had yet to gain government recognition. From the outset of his teaching career, he transcended the conventional role of an educator.

In 1990, he took a significant step by financially supporting the education of ten students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, utilizing his tuition earnings to cover their fees. This early act of generosity would become a hallmark of Kumud’s life—he was not just a teacher but a guardian of hope for many young people.

In 1991, Kumud laid the foundation for the Sarbonnoyon Brahmashram Adarsha Vidyalaya, a private school that operated with a deep sense of community responsibility. Between 1993 and 1998, he distributed free books to underprivileged high school students across the Bajali subdivision. Drawing from the commission he earned by selling books from Guwahati publishers, Kumud ensured that even the most disadvantaged students had access to vital educational resources.

His selfless commitment to education shone brightly with the opening of Navadaya Book Stall in 1994, with the intention of supporting the struggling students. The profits from this bookstore were entirely dedicated to helping poor students further their education.

By 1995, Kumud was making a significant impact in Pathsala, even opening a bookstore at the Pathsala Rash Utsav. The store earned Rs. 80,000 in its first year, all of which was used to purchase books for political science students in need. His initiatives weren’t limited to education alone; between 1996 and 1997, Kumud organized a tree-planting drive in various schools across Bajali and Barpeta, showing his dedication to environmental conservation alongside education.

In 1999, Kumud married Luki Patgiri, and found in her a shared commitment to social service. Despite not having children of their own, the couple has devoted their lives to caring for those in need, especially children who are disabled, neglected, or abandoned. This union marked the beginning of a new chapter in Kumud’s life—one that centred on providing a loving and nurturing home to the vulnerable children left behind by society.

Tapoban

Tapoban was born out of Kumud Kalita’s heartfelt vision of creating a sanctuary for children who were abandoned and forgotten by the society. In 2005, he founded the Tapoban Special Care Home and Tapoban Special School, a landmark initiative that would become a beacon of hope for differently-abled children. This project reflects the 60-year-old’s deep commitment to nurturing the potential of these lost souls, helping them grow into self-reliant, successful individuals.

The first child to enter the warm embrace of Kumud Kalita and his wife was a two-year-old girl with cerebral palsy, found abandoned at the foothills of the sacred Kamakhya temple in Guwahati in 2009. Undeterred by the distance of over 100 kilometers from Pathsala to Guwahati, Kalita made the journey with a heart full of compassion, bringing the tiny, vulnerable baby home and naming her “Kamakshi”—a name that would symbolize her strength and the love that now surrounded her.

Starting with only three orphans, Kumud Kalita and his wife converted their own home into Tapoban’s first center, where they welcomed children who had lost their families and had no support system. Over the years, Tapoban has grown into a fully functional residential facility, now accommodating over 30 disabled children and providing daily educational services to an additional 90 differently-abled students from various districts in Assam.

Between 2005 and 2014, Kumud and his wife personally funded Tapoban’s operations, treating the children as their own. They devoted their lives to these children, offering them a loving home, proper education, and the care required to grow into self-sufficient individuals.

Kumud’s selflessness and courage, alongside his wife’s support, reflect their extraordinary commitment to the cause. Together, they have truly embodied the role of parents to these children, offering them not only shelter but also a future full of possibilities.

At Tapoban, the focus is not only on education but also on the holistic development of each child. The center provides comprehensive services, including Braille education, physiotherapy, speech therapy, autism support, computer literacy, vocational training and rehabilitation programs, all offered free of charge – empowering children like Chumi and Purnima—who are visually impaired—to showcase their talents on prominent stages across Assam.

Under Kumud’s guidance, Tapoban has become a nurturing environment where these children receive the care and attention they deserve. The institution aims to give them the tools they need to lead fulfilling lives, both academically and personally.

Works Beyond Tapoban

Kumud’s work extends beyond Tapoban. He is an active member of several important committees, including the Juvenile Justice Board in Barpeta, the State Child Protection Society of Assam, and the District Child Protection Committee. His involvement in these bodies reflects his broader commitment to child welfare and social justice. Kumud has also been a member of the District Level Special Juvenile Police Unit, further underscoring his dedication to protecting vulnerable children.

In addition to his social work, Kumud is an accomplished writer and publisher. His works include textbooks such as Practical English Grammar, Bhakti Ek Satya-Sadhana, and Mathematics Education: Its Problems and Solutions. Through his writings, Kumud has continued to contribute to the academic and cultural landscape of Assam.

The Students Welfare Mission (S.W.M.), founded by Kumud in 2003, has been a cornerstone of his work. Officially registered in 2005, S.W.M. operates as a voluntary organization focused on the education, training, and rehabilitation of marginalized individuals. The mission aims to uplift street children, orphans, mentally ill individuals, child laborers, and beggars, providing them with opportunities for a better life. The mission’s flagship project, Tapoban, is a testament to its commitment to social upliftment.

Under Kumud’s leadership, S.W.M. has expanded its services to include physiotherapy, speech therapy, Braille education, and computer training for differently-abled children. The mission also runs a Childline sub-centre in Barpeta, providing 24/7 assistance to children in need. Kumud’s vision for S.W.M. is to create a society where the socially unfortunate are treated with love and respect, and where differently-abled individuals are integrated as full members of the community.

Kumud Kalita’s life is a story of relentless service, selflessness, and a deep commitment to the welfare of society’s most vulnerable. Through Tapoban and the Students Welfare Mission, he has transformed the lives of countless children, offering them hope and a future filled with promise. His work continues to inspire, reminding us all of the profound impact one person can have when they dedicate their life to the service of others.

Kumud Kalita – The Author

In addition to his devotion to the dejected children, the 60-year-old teacher has also made significant contributions as a writer and publisher. His published works in Assamese, including titles such as “Practical English Grammar” and “Mathematics Education, Its Problems and Solutions,” reflect his commitment to education and community empowerment.

Among his literary contributions is “Tirtha Yatri” (Pilgrims), including numerous others, each reflecting his passion for nurturing minds and uplifting the lives of those around him.

Awards and Recognition

Kumud Kalita’s dedication has earned him numerous awards and recognition. In 2011, he received the “Best Community Action Award for Development” from the Chief Minister, and in 2014, Guwahati University honoured him for his service to disabled children. He has also been recognized by various organizations, including the Assam Jatiyatabadi Yuva Chhatra Parishad, Pathshala Press Guild, and the international literary and cultural group Kinchit.

One of the most significant moments in his career came in 2015 when he was presented with the “Karnadhara Award” by renowned journalist Homen Bargohain in Guwahati, recognizing his relentless work for the underprivileged – amongst many. Tapoban, as an NGO has been honoured with the Prestigious Children’s Champion Award 2023 in Delhi.

To Conclude – Kumud Kalita’s story is a reminder that one person’s passion can illuminate the darkest corners of despair, bringing hope where it is needed the most. 

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