In a heartwarming display of resilience and compassion, 62-year-old Kiran Kamdar, diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, has been offering a daily free khichdi meal to patients at the DM Petit Government Hospital in Palghar, Maharashtra, for the past three years. Despite her own health challenges, Kiran’s unwavering dedication has become a beacon of hope for the patients and their families.
Every morning, patients from more than 15 nearby villages gather at the DM Petit Government Hospital’s Out-Patient Department (OPD) in Palghar, Maharashtra. They patiently wait for Kiran Kamdar, who arrives with a trolley loaded with boxes of steaming hot khichdi, a nutritious blend of rice and lentils.
Kiran’s journey into this noble endeavor began five years ago when she received a Parkinson’s diagnosis. While the news initially shook her world, it did not deter her spirit. Despite the debilitating effects of the disease, which stiffened her muscles and affected her balance, Kiran continued her active life, caring for her son with cerebral palsy and teaching underprivileged children in her free time.
Kiran’s daughter, Palak, shared, “My mother takes great care of my brother and my sister-in-law who has polio. When my brother was born, the doctors said he would require a lot of care. My mother devoted her time to caring for him. And in her free time, she would teach poor vernacular medium kids in Classes 1 to 10 for free.”
In February 2021, during a visit to a hospitalized friend with her daughter, Kiran was deeply moved by the overwhelming number of patients, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. With newfound determination, she approached the Deputy Commissioner of Palghar district and proposed the idea of serving khichdi to the hospital’s patients. The deputy commissioner and the hospital dean, Rani Badlani, were quick to support Kiran’s noble cause.
Kiran’s husband, Girish, explained that they believed staying active was crucial for her health, as recommended by neurologists. Kiran, aware of the importance of good nutrition, wanted to provide patients with the same luxury.
The very next morning, the Kamdar family rallied together to prepare 22 kg of khichdi. Kiran’s choice of khichdi was intentional; it’s known for its balanced nutritional content. Senior nutritionist Alpa Momaya emphasized its benefits, stating, “The combination provides the body with 10 essential amino acids, making it a complete protein.” Kiran’s khichdi includes moong dal mixed with capsicum, carrots, beans, and peas, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences.
Kiran’s daughter, Palak, who accompanies her mother every morning, expressed the joy of witnessing patients relishing the meal and forming bonds over it, especially those without families.
Kiran’s daily journey to the hospital, including a 4 km walk and the challenges posed by her Parkinson’s disease, hasn’t deterred her from her noble mission. Her family wholeheartedly supports her, recognizing the happiness it brings to both her and the patients.
Dean Rani Badlani commended Kiran’s unwavering commitment, highlighting that she hasn’t missed a single day in three years. Kiran serves not only the patients but also their families who travel long distances to the hospital.
Kiran’s dedication to serving khichdi to those in need is a testament to the power of compassion and selflessness. As she continues her daily service, she remains unwavering in her commitment to make a positive impact on the lives of others, proving that even in the face of adversity, kindness can prevail.
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