Balasore, May 24: In an age where people are increasingly occupied with their own lives, 51-year-old Manoranjan Swain from Odisha’s Balasore has emerged as a symbol of humanity and selfless service. Through his tireless mission of feeding the hungry free of cost, he has not only won hearts but also become an inspiration for society.
A resident of Goshalapada under Sahadevkhunta on the outskirts of Balasore town, Manoranjan has been serving food to poor and helpless people continuously for the last 15 years. Come blazing summer, heavy rain, or chilling winter, he never misses his daily routine of distributing meals among slum dwellers, homeless people, and those struggling to afford even a single meal a day.
Every afternoon, Manoranjan can be seen riding his bike through different parts of the town carrying bags full of cooked food. He visits slums near the railway station, bus stands, temples, market areas, and roadside settlements, offering rice and dalma to hungry people waiting eagerly for him. For many, his arrival is no less than a blessing.
What makes his work truly extraordinary is that he runs this noble mission entirely from his own earnings. Manoranjan owns a small clothing shop, and whatever little income remains after managing household expenses is used for feeding the poor. He has never depended on donations or outside financial support.
His family has become his biggest strength in this humanitarian journey. Every day, food for around 30 to 40 people is prepared at home with the support of his wife Manikmala, son Prabhat, and daughter Shriya. Together, they cook, pack, and help distribute the meals.
Even when the food falls short because of the increasing number of people, Manoranjan does not disappoint anyone. He often buys extra food from nearby hotels using his own money so that no hungry person is forced to return empty-handed.
Behind this remarkable service lies a painful memory that changed his life forever. Years ago, while searching for work in Baripada, Manoranjan himself had to endure hunger for two days after running out of money. The suffering he experienced during those days made him realise the harsh reality of hunger.
That incident deeply moved him and inspired him to help others who sleep hungry every day. In 2011, he began his free food distribution service with a simple goal — no poor person around him should suffer from hunger if he could help it.
Over the years, Manoranjan’s work has earned immense respect from local residents. Many people see him as a real-life hero who quietly serves society without expecting recognition or publicity. His life has become a lesson in compassion, proving that one does not need immense wealth to help others — only a kind heart and determination.
Apart from food distribution, Manoranjan also sets up free drinking water stalls every summer to help people cope with the scorching heat. His commitment to social service reflects his belief that humanity is the greatest religion.
