After 85-year-old Narayan Bhaurao Dabhadkar from Nagpur contracted Covid-19, his daughter, like thousands of other attendants, moved from pillar to post in search of an oxygen bed. After a lot of search and frantic calls, they managed to find an oxygen bed in Indira Gandhi Hospital. Dabhadkar’s grandson-in-law went along and got him admitted, but by this time, Dabhadkar’s oxygen level had dropped alarmingly.
As the grandson-in-law was completing the admission formalities, Dabhadkar saw a woman begging for a bed for her husband — a man in his 40s. Their children were around too, crying.
As a Sangh Swayamsevak, Dabhadkar, who’s often fondly called Dabhadkar Kaka, was used to putting service before self. He took a spot decision and told the doctor, “I am 85 now, I have lived my life. This young man still has responsibilities, his children need him. I will go home. Give the bed to that man.”
He then called his daughter and told her about his decision. Everyone tried to dissuade him, including the doctor, but Dabhadkar was firm. Doctors told him that he might not get better if he does not stay in the hospital for treatment but Dabhadkar insisted on giving up his bed.
His daughter reluctantly signed the consent form, declaring that Dabhadkar was letting go of the bed, and went back home. After battling for the next three days, he succumbed to the Covid-19 virus and left for heavenly abode.
As the country is gasping for breath, myriad people are providing monetary contributions made to save lives. However, Dabhadkar Kaka’s unfathomable act of sacrificing his life to save a young man is exemplary.
