Associations' / Institutions' News

Media Release

Mangaluru, July 29, 2024 : In a heartwarming turn of events, Ramesh, also known as Mantu Singh, was recently reunited with his family after a six-year separation. Ramesh had been living on the streets of Farangipet, sleeping at a bus stand and relying on the generosity of locals who provided him with food. Concerned rickshaw drivers reached out to Snehalaya Psycho Social Rehabilitation Centre, prompting its founder, Bro Joseph Crasta, and his team to rescue Ramesh and admit him to the centre for men.

Ramesh's journey towards recovery was challenging due to his inability to speak or hear. Despite efforts from several sign language interpreters, communication remained a barrier. However, a breakthrough came during an Aadhaar card camp held at Snehalaya, where biometric data revealed his address.

Snehalaya's team contacted the village panchayat in Bihar, where Ramesh's relative, the Sarpanch, recognized him through a video call and vowed to bring him home. On July 29, 2024, Ramesh's cousins, Manish Kumar Singh and Pankaj Singh, travelled from Bihar to Snehalaya. The joy of seeing Ramesh, now identified as Mantu Singh from Simaria, was palpable.

Bro Joseph Crasta warmly welcomed the family. They shared that Mintu had gone missing six years ago and that his mother and elder brother, who is also deaf and dumb, had been longing for his return. Due to the addiction of drugs Mantu was suffering from mental illness. The emotional reunion was a moment of collective happiness for the staff of Snehalaya, who had grown fond of Ramesh as he assisted them in various tasks.

The family expressed deep gratitude towards Snehalaya for their efforts and care, bringing a touching conclusion to a story of hope and human kindness.