SHILLONG: Aahar completed its two-year journey on Tuesday, which also marked the 16th death anniversary of Ardhendu Chaudhuri, former MLA of the then 21-Mawprem Constituency, in whose memory Ardhendu Chaudhuri Charitable Trust was formed 15 years ago on this day (September 22).
Incidentally, it was Day 668 of the Trust’s odyssey with over 60 days being missed due to curfew, bandh, festivals and COVID-related handicaps.
So far, Aahar has served not less than 1.33 lakh meals in the past two years.
On the day, the Trust recognised and felicitated the Aahar volunteers including drivers, cooks, helpers, handymen et al, who have been discharging their duties with great responsibility.
In keeping with their services to the society, the Rotary Club of Shillong also handed over 200 cloth masks for the Aahar guests.
Despite inclement weather and the scare of COVID-19, the day witnessed a handsome participation of public including the well-wishers of Aahar and admirers of late Ardhendu Chaudhuri. The participants adhered to all health protocols.
Speaking at the gathering at Rilbong Dharma Sabha Hall, Editor of The Shillong Times, Patricia Mukhim recalled Ardhendu as a man who knew how to live life and had friends from across different communities.
Talking about life and ways to make the most out of it, Mukhim said there is hope amid the pandemic and that better times will come. She called on the gathering to introspect amid COVID-19 such that it leaves lasting lessons.
) Some of the exemplars included going minimalist, or in other words, getting oneself only that which is really needed; provide to those in need; getting disconnected from gadgets while trying to find other healthy outlets; and more human than virtual interface.
Meanwhile, an exuberant Manas Chaudhuri, chairman of the Ardhendu Chaudhuri Charitable Trust, expressed gratitude to the people who were present on the occasion.
The chairman of the Trust spelled out the achievements of Aahar in terms of finding significance in the lives of the needy.
Over the years, Aahar has received support from prominent organisations as well as the members of the society by way of donations in cash and kind, he informed.
Aahar is an initiative of the Trust under which a wholesome meal is provided to the people for Rs 5 per person.
Speaking on the occasion, former North Eastern Council (NEC) member, Shyamananda Bhattacharjee, fondly remembering Ardhendu, said that the latter was a cordial person and a man who was passionate about social service.
“I identify him as a social man. He was a man who was in and out with the public”, Bhattacharjee said. On the same note, he spoke about India’s social reformer, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, whose bi-centenary will be observed by the nation on September 26.