A Testimonial for Naba JanaKalyan Samiti

A Testimonial for Naba Janakalyan Samiti

I visited Naba Janakalyan Samiti in Mukundapur per USBForum request. I have to thank Babulalda (Amitabha Chatterjee) for arranging the trip and making my visit possible. I want to particularly thank him for turning back his car to pick me up after a miscommunication (admittedly on my part) left me waiting for him while he took off.

Anyway, we arrived at around 11:00 AM and met Sibaprasad Bhadra, the heart and soul of the whole endeavor. While there we met the family of Kalyan Chatterjee, an Electrical Engineer from BE College (1963 Batch). We three alumni soon took to each other. We learned that they had recently made a significant contribution to the Samiti in memory of their daughter-in-law, who had recently passed away, being taken away by cancer. The whole family was there for a celebration, including the children to mark the solemn occasion. They distributed sarees and lunch to several women from the locality. In the process, they were recognized by children presenting roses to them. Amitabha da and I were also honored with roses the same way.

I found Sibaprosad and his endeavor quite impressive. He did not give out any airs with his appearance (long hair! and beard) and dress. But when he talked he showed a level of determination which was quite impressive. We saw the little facility he had built up. It had an eye clinic, a dental clinic, a pediatric facility within it. All the doctors offered their services free I learned. While there, we saw a patient in the eye clinic and another in a general clinic. All the patients were treated free. I was impressed to learn that many workers from the nearby hospitals came to get their treatment here for its reputation and quality of service.

Kalyan da and his family have been involved with Naba Janakalyan Samiti from its inception probably a decade ago. He spoke highly of Sibaprasad, particularly his determination to get things done. He has shown particular adeptness in moving through government regulations. It was particularly impressive that he was able to procure the four-acre property on which the clinic is built. Most of the land is presently low-lying and would require some effort, financially and otherwise to make it usable. Incidentally, being a charitable land, it could not be used for profit by any means.

And that brings up the issue of finance and future plans. Kalyan da (who retired after a very successful career in the corporate world) showed particular concern while taking us around the property along its perimeter on foot. Sibaprasad had grandiose plans including that of a free school. They already were providing education for about 40 orphans. Intermittent funds from America were not quite the solution. In the process, Kalyan da strongly recommended setting up a laboratory within the property. This could generate some useful revenue. Babulal da presented the checks and cash they had collected from America. I was struck my Sibaprasad’s professionalism when he promptly produced receipts of these donations.

The rather uplifting experience came to an end after about three hours. And the end provided another demonstration of Sibaprasad persuasive abilities. He would not let us leave without having lunch, in spite of strong protestations from Babulal da and me. We had a sumptuous lunch. I particularly relished the ‘lau’ curry. Sibaprasad said he had picked up earlier, and the payesh prepared by Sibaprasad’s Mejdi.