Bhubaneswar, May 13: Social activist Nibedita Lenka, popularly known as " Yashoda Maa" performed marriage of her adopted elder daughter Truptimayee Panda, on the occasion of Mother's Day on Sunday as per the Hindu rituals.
"It was my dream to get my elder daughter Trupti married. My life and identity changed the day I adopted her," said Nibedita.
Nibedita, a homemaker of BDA colony in Chandrasekharpur area, adopted three orphans after death of their parents in a tragic gas cylinder explosion near her neighbourhood in 2007.
Despite her limited resources, Nibedita resolved to support the children and adopted the trio – two girls, one boy.
This significant event marked a pivotal turning point in Nibedita's life. Over the years, she has dedicated herself to aiding over 150 children, earning the endearing title of 'Mother' from those she has assisted. Today, many of these children have flourished and found success in various fields.
Lenka, a compassionate individual, has initiated the establishment of the 'Yashoda Maa Foundation,' a philanthropic endeavour aimed at uplifting underprivileged communities. In Bhubaneswar, she has launched five "Barnbodha Pathashala" centers within slum areas, where she tirelessly provides moral education to children residing there.
In a remarkable display of altruism, Lenka has also pledged to donate her body after her demise, viewing it as a final act of service to humanity. Her selfless gesture underscores her commitment to extending assistance to those in need even beyond her lifetime.