Transformative Stories
Abdul arrived at Asha Niketan in 1995, unable to walk and overwhelmed with anguish, distressed in both body and spirit. After a long journey of healing, he regained his ability to walk, became an active member of the community, and now shares his beautiful smile with the world.
Born with a severe intellectual disability into a family of seven children, Abdul was originally named Ilias Mohammed. In May 1994, after an accident left him unable to walk, he went missing from home. His family searched desperately, using all their resources, but their efforts were in vain. No trace of him could be found. Some time later, a nursing sister from Saint Philomena’s Hospital discovered Abdul lying unconscious just blocks away from the hospital.
She contacted Asha Niketan, and it was agreed that he would join the community. However, given his fragile physical and mental health, he was first admitted to the hospital, where he remained for over a month. With the combined efforts of the hospital staff and Asha Niketan, Abdul received the medical care and treatment he needed to begin his journey of finding stability and happiness. When he first arrived at Asha Niketan, he was a stranger—no one knew his name or his story. The only clue to his identity was a chain around his neck, suggesting he was Muslim. In keeping with his faith, the community decided to give him a Muslim name: Abdul, meaning “gift from God.” Though at first he was deeply unhappy and difficult, he was soon not a stranger but a beloved and valued member of the family; a true gift to the community.Abdul loved spending time on the swing in the garden, gently pushing himself back and forth. This simple activity helped strengthen his legs, and with dedicated physiotherapy and support from the assistants, he eventually learned to walk again. When he first arrived, Abdul was in great distress. His intellectual disorder caused him to suffer greatly from spells of depression and mood swings, and he often even harmed himself. However, the structured routines, compassionate care, and deep sense of belonging which he found at Asha Niketan, he began to heal. He learned to communicate his needs and desires constructively, without harming himself. In the safety and warmth of the community, Abdul found peace.Brother Fernando's, the community leader at the time, frequently took Abdul to different mosque’s, in hope of finding his family. One day, when Abdul was sitting at the gates of the mosque clapping his hands and calling out in the way so unique to him, a man praying inside recognised the familiar sounds of his own nephew. Abdul’s uncle came running to the gates of the mosque to meet his lost nephew. Soon Abdul was reunited with his entire family; It was a very joyous occasion.Although his family was overjoyed to find him, they decided that Abdul should remain at Asha Niketan, where he had found fellowship and belonging. The community had become his home and Abdul, a flower of that community had begun to bloom beautifully. Seeing how much he had flourished in his new home his family officially changed his name to Abdul Ilias Mohammed—acknowledging that he is, indeed, a gift from God to Asha Niketan. Now Abdul can often be seen sitting with the others, a lovely, almost mischievous smile glowing over his whole face, his eyes bright with the happiness of being at home.
Srinivas arrived at Asha Niketan on September 8, 2022—a date he remembers perfectly because it marks a pivotal moment in his life. Born in Tamil Nadu, Srinivas spent the first three years of his life in critical condition, even coming close to death. However, he survived those early challenges and began school in Tamil Nadu until his family moved to Bangalore in 2006. There, he lived at an NGO, but he found it unfulfilling. With no work to do, he felt bored, spending most of his time just eating and sleeping. His family, also unhappy with the situation, searched for a better home for him. After two years, they found a new community for him within a Christian organisation. However, this too didn’t feel like home. He had to wake up at 5 a.m. every day, and the strictly vegetarian meals didn’t suit him—especially since his favourite food is chicken. After five years, he had to leave, as the organisation only housed children, not adults. His departure coincided with the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, so he spent the next few years living with his parents.
Once the pandemic settled, his mother learned about Asha Niketan, and Srinivas came to live there. At first, he struggled and often quarrelled with the other core members, but from the beginning, he loved having meaningful work and learning new skills. He has become an excellent carpet weaver and takes great care in tending the community garden.When Harris arrived at Asha Niketan, Srinivas found not just a friend, but a best friend. They now work side by side in the craft shop, helping each other with their tasks. Srinivas has grown so comfortable at Asha Niketan that he no longer wants to live anywhere else—this is his true home. He enjoys visits from his sister, who takes him out for delicious meals, and they share a close bond. However, he chooses to stay at Asha Niketan because he is truly happy here. Srinivas is an active and enthusiastic member of the community. He sings eagerly during prayer times and is deeply committed to his work. Although he is Hindu, he often tells people that he loves Christianity. He is naturally open and curious about other faiths, encouraging everyone to participate at prayer times in their own way.Since joining Asha Niketan, Srinivas has grown in confidence and become a fearless performer. At a festival, he once danced in front of over 2,000 people! When asked if he felt nervous, he simply replied, “No, why should I get scared?”—a response only a born performer could give.Srinivas appreciates being valued, but he also shows great kindness and appreciation toward others. He makes sure to give each person a hand-drawn card on their birthday. He loves that Asha Niketan takes him seriously and provides opportunities for him to grow, such as attending Formational Meetings of L’Arche International. With an adventurous spirit, he even dreams of one day visiting America!