A Childhood in a Leprosy Colony.

 

                                                  A Childhood in a Leprosy Colony.

As I look back on my childhood, I realize just how unique and extraordinary it truly was. Born and raised in a leprosy colony, my life was shaped by the experiences of my parents and the close-knit community that surrounded us.

It all began with my parents, who were both affected by leprosy during their teenage years. Forced to leave their homes for treatment, they found themselves living like orphans in a government hospital. However, amidst the challenges and uncertainties, fate intervened, and they found love in each other. Matched by senior patients in the hospital, they defied the odds and got married, laying the foundation for our family of five siblings - four sisters and myself.

Childhood in the leprosy colony was unlike anything I could have imagined. Despite the physical scars and missing limbs that marked many of the residents, there was a sense of acceptance and normalcy that prevailed. As children, we played together, unaware of the societal stigma attached to leprosy. However, curiosity often got the better of us, and we couldn't help but wonder about the missing fingers and disfigured hands of our parents and neighbours.

The answers we received were always the same - a simple explanation about hands getting caught in machines. But as we grew older, we began to understand the truth behind the facade. Yet, we never let the stigma of leprosy affect our relationships or perceptions. We accepted everyone around us for who they were, scars and all.

School was both a refuge and a source of anxiety. While we cherished the joys of learning and friendship, the absence of our parents from school meetings weighed heavily on our minds. We worried about the reactions of our classmates and teachers if they were to discover our family's secret. The fear of rejection and isolation loomed large, driving us to hide our true identities.

As I progressed through school and later pursued higher education, the fear of discrimination remained a constant companion. Even in the professional world, I chose to keep my upbringing a secret, fearing judgment and prejudice. Yet, amidst the secrecy and fear, there was a sense of belonging within our colony. It was a place where familial bonds were strong, and acceptance was unconditional.

My parents, burdened with extra workloads, juggled jobs in a factory close to the leprosy hospital. In the absence of parental care, my siblings and I found solace in the familiarity of the hospital grounds, forging relationships with patients and finding comfort in the communal atmosphere of the canteen.

Reflecting on my past, I see how growing up in a leprosy colony shaped who I am today. Even though it was different from how most people grow up, it taught me some important things. I learned how to accept others, be strong when things get tough, and why having a community is so important.

Despite the difficulties and people looking down on us because of leprosy, our colony wasn't just a place to live. It was more like a family filled with love, help, and a sense of belonging.

As I move forward in life, I'll always carry these lessons with me. They remind me to be strong, kind, and to value the connections we have with others.

Thank you.

Satish Sawant