Mangaluru: Mother and child reunited with family in Bihar after months of care
On March 22, 2025, an intervention by the Snehalaya Rescue Team at Mangaluru Central Railway Station changed the course of a young mother’s life. Acting on information from the police, the team rescued Pooja, a homemaker from Bihar struggling with mental illness, along with her eight-month-old son, Ayush. Both were admitted to the women’s section of Snehalaya Psycho-Social Rehabilitation Centre in Manjeshwar.
A journey from despair to recovery
According to information received, Pooja had left her home in Bihar and travelled to Tamil Nadu in search of work after being affected by mental health challenges. In the process, she lost contact with her family and was separated from them.
At Snehalaya, her life took a hopeful turn. She was provided with comprehensive mental and physical healthcare, counselling, and rehabilitation support. Over time, Pooja regained her mental health and stability, allowing the process of family reunification to begin.
Tracing the family in Bihar
With support from Shraddha Foundation, under the leadership of Shri Basavaraj, efforts were made to trace Pooja’s home address in Bihar. After weeks of follow-up, her husband, Bhupali, and extended family were finally located.
On September 7, 2025, Bhupali travelled from Bihar to Manjeshwar to reunite with his wife and son. For Pooja, it was a day filled with joy, marking her long-awaited return home. For the staff at Snehalaya, however, it was an emotional moment of parting.
Ayush, the heart of Snehalaya
During their six-month stay, little Ayush became the centre of affection at Snehalaya. His innocent smile, playful nature, and giggles won the love of staff and fellow residents alike. The baby received the warmth, affection, and care that one usually expects from a family, making him a cherished presence within the centre.
As the time of farewell approached, emotions ran high among the staff, many of whom had formed a close bond with Ayush. Tears were shed as the beloved child prepared to leave with his mother and father.
A farewell filled with hope
Though their departure was bittersweet, the reunion with family brought new hope to Pooja and her child. The Founder and staff of Snehalaya expressed heartfelt blessings, wishing them a future filled with happiness, stability, and the joy of togetherness.
What began as a journey of despair and separation eventually transformed into a story of courage, care, and healing. As Pooja and Ayush set out for Bihar to begin their new chapter, their memories remain etched deeply in the hearts of the Snehalaya family.