Mumbai: Sagar Reddy (29), the latest recipient of the prestigious Keshav Srushti Award conferred by an Uttan-based organisation for bringing care and compassion into the lives of hundreds of orphans, himself lost his parents when he was just three months old, after they died in an honour killing induced by their inter-faith marriage. After his grandfather’s demise, Sagar was sent to an orphanage in Lonavala.
However, as mandated by government rules, Sagar had to leave the orphanage sans any money or identity documents including ration and aadhar card when he turned 18.
Left to face the outside world with an empty pocket, Sagar still nursed dreams of becoming an engineer. He came to Mumbai and after saving some money, he managed to secure admission at an engineering college in Chembur and even bagged a job at Larsen and Toubro. However, he had a bigger dream, of reaching out to destitute orphans. He launched Ekta Niradhar Sangh in 2010. Seven years later, he is a father figure to over 1,128 youngsters who are now leading a settled life.
Reddy has also moved the judiciary, seeking rights for orphans, including proper identity and job quotas. In recognition of his social work, the Keshav Srushti has decided to confer the award on Ekta Niradhar Sangh and will felicitate Reddy at Rang Sharda Hall on October 1.
