Rajkishor Sharma, affectionately known as Raju Babu, was a multifaceted personality whose life journey unfolded in the heart of Bhawanipatna, Kalahandi, Odisha. Born and brought up in a lower-middle-class family, Raju Babu’s formative years were a blend of simplicity and resilience. His schooling and college education in Kolkata and Bhawanipatna provided him with a unique perspective on life, setting the stage for a remarkable journey of social impact.
Professionally, Raju Babu wore several hats— he was not only an accomplished advocate and Income Tax Consultant but also a poet with a penchant for expressing his thoughts through verses. However, it was his unwavering commitment to social service that defined his true essence.
In 1993, driven by a profound desire to bring about positive change in the lives of tribal communities, Raju Babu established the Development Alternative for Poor and Tribal Agency (DAPTA). This voluntary organization became the embodiment of his vision for a society built on principles of self-reliance, love for humanity, and universal brotherhood. DAPTA, a non-political and secular entity, dedicated its efforts to uplifting the poor, rural, tribal, scheduled castes, and other marginalized sections.
Raju Babu’s passion for social work became the driving force behind DAPTA’s initiatives over the next 25 years. His dedication to the cause was immeasurable, and his tireless efforts aimed at empowering tribal communities and promoting their socio-economic and cultural development.
Tragically, on the 3rd of November, 2023, Raju Babu’s journey came to an abrupt end when he suffered a massive heart attack. The voluntary sector mourned the loss of a stalwart whose contributions had become synonymous with positive change.
Raju Babu’s outreach extended far beyond the confines of conventional social work. His empathy towards the poor and marginalized, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 lockdown, showcased his deep commitment to those in need. His ability to raise funds and materials for vulnerable tribal communities reflected not only his dedication but also his resourcefulness.
Apart from his social endeavors, Raju Babu had a profound liking for tribal culture, folklore, music, art, and humanities. His efforts weren’t confined to the organizational sphere; he continued to run the Lovedale School, a play school for pre-school children, on his campus.
Accessible to all, Raju Babu’s patient listening and genuine care endeared him to everyone—be it staff, volunteers, partners, or associates. His generosity extended to supporting local youth, budding researchers, and individuals from economically challenged backgrounds. His house in Bhawanipatna was always open, reflecting his hospitality and friendship.
Raju Babu’s impact wasn’t limited to a specific demographic; he reached out to various communities, including Transgenders, and played a pivotal role in fostering inclusivity and understanding. His collaborative spirit earned him acknowledgment from the District administration, NGOs, and civil society organizations.
DAPTA’s recognition for outstanding rural development work wasn’t confined to local applause; it resonated on the national and international stage. Various entities, including the Collector and District Magistrate of Kalahandi, Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, and international donors such as The Hunger Project, Oxfam India Trust, Save the Children India, and UNICEF, lauded DAPTA’s contributions.
Raju Babu’s notable contributions spanned a myriad of areas, from tribal children’s education to women’s empowerment, healthcare, food security, and nutrition. His involvement in issues such as forest protection, sustainable management, participatory research, and strengthening local self-governance systems showcased his holistic approach.
His philanthropic endeavors included work on HIV and AIDS, climate change, public health, child protection (Childline), sustainable agriculture, and animal husbandry. He believed in addressing the root causes of issues, promoting sustainable and regenerative practices, and advocating for the overall well-being of communities.
Raju Babu’s legacy also included initiatives like supporting Persons with Disability (PWDs), eradicating Malaria, and running referral services for patients. DAPTA, under his leadership, became the nodal agency for Childline in Kalahandi, further expanding its reach and impact.
His sudden demise left a void not only in Kalahandi but in the entire voluntary sector of the state and country. Raju Babu’s life was a testament to the transformative power of dedicated social service. He is survived by his son Adarsh Sharma (Sonu), who undoubtedly carries forward the torch of his father’s noble contributions.
As the people of Kalahandi reflect on Raju Babu’s life, they remember a man who had no enemies, only friends. His rapport with government bodies, international donors, CSR foundations, private sector actors, NGOs, civil society organizations, students, researchers, judiciary, police, and intellectuals underscored his ability to bridge diverse worlds for a common cause.
Raju Babu’s leadership was marked by a belief in collaborative efforts, evident in his role in facilitating GO-NGO collaborations for better synergy and convergence. His work wasn’t just about charity; it was about creating lasting change, and he firmly believed in working closely with the government and the larger civil society to achieve this.
In every sense, Raju Babu’s life was a narrative of compassion, dedication, and unyielding service to the poor and marginalized tribal communities. His efforts to collect and distribute clothes, blankets, and food items among the needy in remote tribal villages showcased a man who lived by his principles.
As the years unfold, Raju Babu’s contributions will remain etched in the collective memory of those whose lives he touched. The accolades and recognitions received by DAPTA from various quarters stand as a testament to the enduring impact of his work. His untimely departure may have left a void, but the spirit of Raju Babu’s philanthropy will continue to inspire generations to come, ensuring that his noble legacy endures in the annals of social service.
