Recognising the place of neighbours in life, sharing laugh and grief with them, a unique idea of celebrating a “Universal Neighbourhood Day” (Viswa Pratibeshi Divas) on October 15 has become a reality under the leadership of lawyer and social activist Radhakanta Tripathy.
The day was celebrated at Dagamunda leprosy Colony at Randia in Bhadrak. Respecting the neighbours, especially the deprived mass, and considering the entire world as one family, the day was celebrated for the first time where landless leprosy patients have been residing miserably without basic amenities and necessities of life.
“We expressed solidarity with these families and vowed to stand at the time of their need,” said Tripathy.
The neighbourhood has its own importance for a healthy environment. The duties and responsibilities of everyone for neighbours should be performed in a judicious manner. To be connected with neighbours, especially with the vulnerable groups, senior citizens and deprived mass, is the need of the hour. Healthy relationships with neighbours can bring positive changes among people, whether it is in small villages, big towns or different countries, he added.
It is pertinent to mention that the day was celebrated for the first time in the world, said Nabakishor Sahu, the headmaster of the primary school situated at the leprosy colony.
Research scholar and human rights activist Sitakanta Tripathy said social connection ensures better feeling and prevents isolation, loneliness and depression as it develops a bonding and inspires the concept of human value.
About a hundred people including Sanyasi Singh, Omm Ashutosh, Sabitri Rout, Kalandi Munda, Som Ashirbad, Deba Mahakud ad Bhanja Soren were very happy to see the gathering and the way of celebration.
Two police personnel from the Bhadrak Rural police station also joined in the celebration.