How Did a Kozhikode Woman Reunite with Her Family After Nine Years?
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Synopsis
Geetha's heartwarming story is a testament to resilience and the power of reunions. After nine years of separation, she returns home, highlighting the challenges faced by families during mental health crises. This emotional journey showcases the critical role of social workers in reuniting loved ones.
Key Takeaways
- Emotional reunions
- Mental health support
- Language barriers
- Social workers
- Communities must invest in mental health
Kozhikode, Oct 10 (NationPress) After a long absence of nine years, Geetha, who had found shelter at the Government Asha Bhavan in Mayanad, Kozhikode, has finally been reunited with her family.
The 55-year-old woman, hailing from Bhokar Nandi Nagar village in Nanded district, Maharashtra, experienced a severe mental health crisis following the passing of her parents, prompting her to travel to Kozhikode in 2016.
Initially, she was admitted to the Kuthiravattam Mental Health Centre, where she received treatment and slowly regained her mental health.
After her recovery, she continued to reside under the caring supervision of Asha Bhavan.
Due to language differences, Geetha struggled to clearly express her origins, but she provided vital hints that aided local police in locating her family in Maharashtra.
Her children, Santosh Kumar Waghmare and Lakshmi Waghmare, who had believed she was deceased and had even conducted her last rites years earlier, were filled with joy upon discovering she was alive.
“This feels like a rebirth for us,” they shared, recounting the challenges they faced after losing contact with their mother.
The reunion was made possible by M. Shivan, a retired officer from the Ministry of Home Affairs and a dedicated social worker, who worked to bridge the gap between the children and the staff at Asha Bhavan.
Geetha’s husband, from the Adivasi community, had married another woman 35 years ago, leaving her with three children, which intensified the family’s struggles.
The children, who were employed in Nizamabad, Andhra Pradesh, rushed to Kozhikode to bring their mother back home.
The staff at Asha Bhavan witnessed the profoundly emotional reunion.
Grateful for the support provided by the institution and the government over the years, the children joyfully escorted Geetha back to her home.
This story exemplifies not only the emotional impact of long-term separations caused by mental health issues but also highlights the significant role played by social workers and authorities in reuniting families after years of uncertainty.
Point of View
I believe this touching narrative encapsulates the enduring human spirit and the importance of community support in times of crisis. It underlines how essential it is for society to invest in mental health resources and to foster connections that can heal families torn apart by circumstances.
NationPress
28/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to Geetha's separation from her family?
Geetha experienced a mental health crisis after the death of her parents, leading her to leave her home and travel to Kozhikode in 2016.
How was Geetha reunited with her family?
After years of separation, crucial clues provided by Geetha helped local police trace her family in Maharashtra, leading to a heartfelt reunion.
What role did social workers play in this reunion?
M. Shivan, a retired officer and social worker, facilitated the connection between Geetha and her children, making the reunion possible.
What are the emotional impacts of such separations?
Long-term separations can lead to severe emotional distress for families, highlighting the need for support systems for those affected by mental health challenges.
Where is Geetha originally from?
Geetha is originally from Bhokar Nandi Nagar village in Nanded district, Maharashtra.
