Dreams often grapple with the harsh reality of financial constraints in the remote village of Medubadi in Daringibadi block of Odisha’s Kandhamal district. Yet, amidst this backdrop emerges a tale of determination and communal support embodied by Hebal Pradhan, a young man on a quest to fulfil his dream of becoming a doctor.
Pradhan’s childhood aspirations of donning the white coat and stethoscope seemed distant amid his family’s pressing financial struggles. Despite excelling academically, the burden of monetary limitations forced him to pause his dreams after Class 12.
Pradhan refused to succumb to circumstances. Leveraging his academic prowess, he began offering tuition to support his education. However, fate led him to unexpected avenues, finding himself navigating the bustling streets of Hyderabad as a delivery boy for an e-commerce firm. Every hard-earned rupee from this endeavour became a precious seed sown towards his dream of pursuing medical education.
Enduring long days of deliveries followed by nights spent immersed in textbooks, Pradhan’s dedication culminated in triumph when he secured a place at Saheed Laxman Nayak Medical College and Hospital (SLNMCH) in Koraput, Odisha, after excelling in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) last year.
Triumph over adversity
The shadows of financial constraints continued to loom over Pradhan’s aspirations. The initial hurdle of admission costs of around Rs 1 lakh posed a daunting challenge for his impoverished family. Yet, they persisted, with his parents resorting to selling turmeric and Pradhan himself taking a loan of Rs 85,000 to bridge the financial gap.
Now, a first-year MBBS student, he faces the daunting task of repaying the loan, with private money lenders adding to the familial burden. The situation is dire, jeopardising his dreams unless timely assistance is extended.
“Now since I am finding it difficult to pay the monthly instalments, the loan collection agents keep visiting my house to ask for money,” Pradhan told Village Square.
In response to this pressing need, the villagers of Medubadi have rallied behind Pradhan, recognising his extraordinary journey.
Mangaraj Digal, a fellow villager, articulated the collective sentiment: “Government assistance will help him achieve his goal.”
In a proactive move, SLNMCH dean Dr Sushanta Kumar Sahu initiated efforts to alleviate Pradhan’s financial burden.
“Hebal Pradhan possesses remarkable talent, but his family lacks financial means. We’ve petitioned the government for aid and are now turning to crowdfunding to secure his future,” Sahu said.
Apart from seeking government assistance and exploring crowdfunding avenues, the college is mobilising support from compassionate people, alumni, and well-wishers to secure the youngster’s future in medicine.
He has received some positive contributions so far.
“One businessperson, Sabitri Devi, has paid Rs 1 lakh towards my first-year course fee. The Indian Red Cross Society, Bhubaneswar, also gave me Rs 10,000,” Pradhan said. “But I still have to pay a monthly mess fee of Rs 13,000 and loan instalments of Rs 4,500 every month. I don’t know how I will manage the finances in the future.”
Pradhan’s story transcends individual struggle, evolving into a rallying cry for the community. His journey from Medubadi to medical college embodies hope for all facing adversity. It echoes a resounding message: no dream is too grand, no hurdle too imposing.
The lead image on top shows Hebal Pradhan in his classroom at Saheed Laxman Nayak Medical College and Hospital in Koraput, Odisha (Photo courtesy Hebal Pradhan)
Shreekanta Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with a decade of dedicated experience in the ever-evolving field of media.
