Dev Pratap Singh: A Childhood Odyssey
The remarkable narrative of Dev Pratap Singh, once a mere rag picker, has transcended the boundaries of poverty to become a beacon of hope for over 800 slum children. This poignant story unveils a man’s journey from destitution to a fervent desire to uplift others in similar circumstances.
Escape from Adversity
Dev’s transformative journey commenced at the tender age of 11 when he fled his tumultuous home, seeking refuge from an abusive father and a toxic environment. Armed with a mere 130 rupees, he embarked on a train to Gwalior, where serendipity led him to a group of children scavenging used bottles. This encounter marked the inception of his life as a rag picker, scavenging rags, iron, and metal objects to eke out an immediate living.
The Brush with Darkness
However, the allure of a dark path beckoned, and Dev succumbed to the world of drugs. Two years later, he found himself behind bars, charged with robbery. The juvenile rehabilitation center exposed him to a wretched existence, only to be rescued by a benevolent Samaritan named Raja, steering him away from the precipice.
A Phoenix Rising: Dev’s Resilience
Dev’s trajectory took a positive turn as he transitioned to Delhi, working his way up from a salesman to a local sales manager, earning Rs 45,000 within two years. A poignant reunion with his mother in Agra brought fleeting happiness, shattered by her tragic demise in a road accident the next day.
A Noble Initiative Takes Root
Witnessing the plight of children mirroring his past, Dev, alongside Chandni Khan, initiated an NGO – ‘Voice of Slum.’ Facing financial constraints, they turned to social media, leveraging smartphones to garner support. Renamed ‘Voice of Slum,’ the duo officially launched the NGO in 2016, with a mission beyond education – empowering children to break free from the shackles of poverty.
Pandemic Philanthropy
During the lockdown, ‘Voice of Slum’ emerged as a lifeline for impoverished families. Dev, embodying resilience, procured a pickup truck, distributing 2-3 meals daily to 500-1,000 people in Delhi-NCR. The ‘Voice of Slum, Feed the Slum’ initiative has delivered over 20 lakh meals since 2020’s lockdown, including the distribution of 60 oxygen cylinders during the devastating second wave.
Beyond Charity: A Visionary Perspective
Dev’s commitment extends beyond immediate relief. Addressing the societal concern highlighted by the viral ‘Kamlesh’ video, he emphasizes the gravity of drug abuse and aspires to combat its scourge. Looking ahead, he envisions establishing a formal school by 2023, expanding operations, and continuing outreach in Madhya Pradesh.
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Dev Pratap Singh’s inspiring journey serves as a testament to resilience, empathy, and the power of transformation. As ‘Voice of Slum’ echoes its commitment, Dev’s saga radiates as a guiding light, breaking the chains of the rag picker spiral for a brighter, more hopeful tomorrow.
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