Tuhina Sahoo
Bhadrak, July 2: Sujata Khatua, a resident of Bhadrak town, has made an indelible mark by entering the India Book of Records for her heartfelt and poignant songs written in memory of her late son, Soumitra Mohanty.
Soumitra, a final-year MBBS student, tragically lost his life in a road accident just days before his final exams, dashing his dreams of becoming a doctor and leaving his family in profound grief.
The untimely demise of her son was a devastating blow for Sujata, and coming to terms with the loss seemed almost impossible. In her immense sorrow, she found solace and a form of therapy in writing songs.
Each composition became a tribute to Soumitra, encapsulating his memory and the tragic circumstances of his death. Over time, these songs took on a broader purpose: spreading awareness about road safety to prevent similar tragedies from affecting other families.
The themes of Sujata's songs are predominantly focused on road safety and awareness. Her lyrics highlight the importance of adhering to traffic rules, the consequences of negligence, and the collective responsibility to ensure safer roads for all.
Through her music, Sujata aims to make a significant impact on her community by promoting vigilant and careful driving habits.
Her poignant songs quickly resonated with her local community in Bhadrak, and Sujata's fame as a poet and songwriter grew. Her dedication and unique approach for raising awareness did not go unnoticed. The India Book of Records recognized her exceptional contribution and her ability to transform personal grief into a public service campaign.
“After losing my son, I tried to write down whatever feelings came to me. I thought I would give expressions to my feelings. If something bad happens to us, we think God has done injustice to us. But we human beings can’t understand God's plan. Our faith in Him shows a new path,” Sujata expressed.
Her words reflect a profound acceptance and resilience, showcasing how she has channelled her pain into a meaningful cause.
Sujata’s recognition in the India Book of Records is not just an accolade for her songwriting skills but a testament to her strength and dedication. Her story is a powerful reminder of how personal tragedy can be transformed into a force for good.
By raising awareness about road safety, Sujata hopes to inspire others to be more vigilant and careful, ensuring that Soumitra's memory lives on through the lives saved by her message.
Through her songs, Sujata Khatua has not only honoured her son's memory but also created a lasting legacy of awareness and vigilance that will resonate for years to come.