Rabi grew up in Lakharmath, a red-light area in South Kolkata. After losing his father at the age of eight, he lived with his mother and younger brother in extremely difficult circumstances. His mother faced enormous challenges as the sole provider but was determined to give her sons a life of safety, dignity, and opportunity. For her, the Lakharmath Project run by Emmanuel Ministries Calcutta (EMC) was a sanctuary where her children could be safe, especially at night.

At the heart of this safe haven was Biva, the project head, who became a guiding force in Rabi’s young life. Her steady support, coupled with EMC’s structured care, helped Rabi find both direction and purpose.

Rabi thrived at the Lakharmath Project. He actively participated in cultural programs and competitions, channeling his enthusiasm into dance, drama, and recitation. His infectious smile and natural charisma stood out, and it was clear even then, that he had the qualities of a leader.

With the project’s support, Rabi was enrolled in a local primary school where he consistently ranked among the top students. He worked hard and performed exceptionally well, earning high distinctions in both his Secondary and Higher Secondary Examinations.

Determined to break free from the cycle of poverty and instability that affected many in his community, Rabi pursued higher education with focus and drive. He completed his graduation and post-graduation in International Relations from reputed Indian universities. He then qualified for the National Eligibility Test (NET) and earned a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF). His academic journey continued with a Ph.D., and in 2018, he was appointed Assistant Professor in Political Science at the University of North Bengal.

Yet, despite his professional accomplishments, Rabi remains deeply connected to the Lakharmath Project, the place that shaped his early years. Whenever he visits Kolkata, he makes it a point to spend time with the children currently in the program, teaching and encouraging them.

During the COVID-19 lockdown, he also supported local relief efforts and contributed to the project’s outreach for families in crisis.

Rabi credits much of his success to the strength and love of his mother, who now leads a quiet and respectful life. He also acknowledges the values he absorbed at the Lakharmath Project, that of compassion, honesty, integrity, and service to others, continue to guide him today.

Rabi’s story is a powerful example of what is possible when a community welfare project invests deeply in a child’s potential. Through consistent support, emotional care, and education, a boy from one of Kolkata’s most marginalised areas grew into a scholar, mentor, and changemaker.