Begging is a heartbreaking reality in India, a nation known for its rich history, diverse culture, and spirituality. Every day, countless beggars line the bustling streets and tranquil ghats, their hands outstretched, seeking alms from passersby. These beggars, often invisible to many, endure a life of destitution and marginalization.
Among them, however, is a ray of hope, a shining example of what compassion, determination, and the right support can achieve. This hope takes the form of Chandra Mishra, a former journalist turned social worker, who has made it his mission to change the lives of beggars in the sacred city of Varanasi. His vision is simple but profound: beggars can become entrepreneurs, creating a path to a life of dignity and self-sufficiency.
Chandra Mishra, a 59-year-old journalist-turned-social worker, has a remarkable vision for Varanasi – a city known for its spiritual significance. His mantra? Transform beggars into entrepreneurs.
A Mission with a Purpose
Chandra’s journey began in December 2020 when he left his family in Bhubaneshwar and relocated to Varanasi. His mission: to combat unemployment and change the lives of those in need. He wasn’t new to this arena; he had previously worked with several state governments on employment policies.
The Birth of the ‘Beggars Corporation’
In 2021, during the COVID-19 lockdown, Chandra established the ‘Beggars Corporation.’ This unique initiative focuses on imparting entrepreneurship skills to beggars, offering them an alternative means of livelihood. Varanasi’s ghats were teeming with beggars, and Chandra aimed to provide them with a sense of purpose.
Crafting a Better Future
Under Chandra’s guidance, these formerly destitute families began creating products like conference bags, laptop bags, and shopping bags. The next step was to approach local hotels and multinational companies to supply these products. The impact was astounding.
From Alms to Self-Help
What’s even more inspiring is that these beggar-turned-entrepreneurs formed self-help groups, pooling their resources and skills. In 2021-22, generous individuals invested 5.7 lakh rupees into their business. The result? A tenfold return on investment in 2022-23, taking their business’s worth to a staggering 57 lakh rupees.
A New Lease on Life
Chandra’s belief in changing mindsets toward beggars has paid off. The once-dependent beggars now earn a minimum of 10,000 rupees a month, providing them with stability and self-reliance.
A Temple, A Vision
Chandra’s journey started with a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath temple, where he noticed a long line of beggars waiting for alms. His interactions with them sparked the idea of using this untapped human resource for a more meaningful purpose – thus, the ‘Beggars Corporation’ was born.
A Touching Story
Chandra recalls the story of Khushbu (name changed), a single mother forced into begging after her husband abandoned her. Khushbu decided to renounce begging and learn stitching. She was the first to join the initiative, and her determination paved the way for others.
Awards and Recognition
In April of this year, the ‘Beggars Corporation’ received the Best Social Impact Award in the Innopreneurs Global Startup Contest. Their remarkable journey from beggary to entrepreneurship has garnered attention and recognition.
A Lesson in Empowerment
Chandra Mishra’s work in Varanasi is a powerful reminder that with the right opportunities and support, anyone can transform their lives. His ‘Beggars Corporation’ is not only creating entrepreneurs but also changing the way society perceives and treats beggars.
Conclusion
Chandra Mishra’s mission in Varanasi is a testament to the power of determination and compassion. His work is an inspiration for us all, a reminder that every life has the potential for positive change. The ‘Beggars Corporation’ not only provides livelihoods but also restores dignity to those who have been marginalized for too long. It’s a story of hope, empowerment, and the belief that a life worth living is within reach for everyone, regardless of their circumstances.
