Kalpaka Charitable Trust – Adopting the Needy | Kalpaka
A Day with the Tribal Children of Manchegowda Hadi: A Story of Tribal Education, Care, and Belonging
June 15, 2026
22 December 2025
Manchegowda Hadi, H.D. Kote Taluk, Mysuru (Near Kabini River)
Reaching a Place Where Life Is Quiet, But Struggles Speak Loudly
As we travelled toward Manchegowda Hadi, the road slowly narrowed and the sounds of the outside world began to fade. On both sides, trees stood still, and the Kabini river flowed quietly nearby. This is where the Kalpaka Foundation team arrived on 22 December 2025—a place that may seem small on the map but holds stories of strength, survival, and childhood lived with courage.
The school here stands modestly, almost blending into its surroundings. There are no grand buildings, no loud signs—just a simple space where tribal education continues against many odds.
Fifteen children from the Jenu Kuruba tribal community study here. Their families live day to day, depending on fishing, forest-related work, and daily wage jobs. Tomorrow is never guaranteed. Yet every morning, these children arrive at school with notebooks in hand, smiles on their faces, and a quiet determination to learn.
What Tribal Education Looks Like in a Shared Classroom
When we stepped into the classroom, the children paused. For a moment, there was silence—curious eyes watching us carefully. Then slowly, shy smiles appeared.
Children from Anganwadi to the fifth standard sit together in the same room. They share one blackboard, one teacher, and one learning space. The classroom is simple, but it is clean and cared for. Despite having very little, the children were attentive, expressive, and eager to be seen and heard.
There was no fear in their eyes—only curiosity and openness.
Meet the Children of Manchegowda Hadi
These are the children who bring life to this classroom every day.
Each one carries curiosity, quiet strength, and a willingness to learn—no matter the challenges around them.
Small Gifts, Big Smiles, and Moments of Pure Joy
Small Gifts, Big Smiles, and Moments of Pure Joy
Inside the classroom, the children slowly opened up. Their joy showed itself in simple ways—through laughter, quiet conversations, gentle singing, and moments of playful movement.
Some expressed themselves through drawing, carefully filling pages with shapes and colors. Their courage, curiosity, and confidence were already present, waiting for space to breathe.
When we later shared stationery kits and sports kits, those smiles only grew wider. The happiness in the room did not come from what was given but from the feeling of being seen, encouraged, and valued.
A Blanket That Meant More Than Warmth
One of the most touching moments of the day was the Winter Blanket Project.
Many of these children own very few clothes. Cold nights are especially difficult here, and warmth is not always easy to find. As winter sets in, the chill lingers long after the sun goes down. A blanket, in such moments, is not just for comfort—it becomes a source of safety, rest, and quiet relief from the cold.
When each child received a blanket, there was no noise, no rush. They held it close, almost protectively. In that quiet moment, the blanket became more than fabric—it became comfort, safety, and reassurance.
The Teacher Who Holds the School Together with Dedication
The true strength of this school lies in its teachers.
Inside the classroom, it is the dedication of the teachers that keeps learning alive. One of the teachers, Mr. Shreekanth, teaches not only lessons but also patience and kindness. When resources fall short, he buys chalk and basic learning materials using his own money, refusing to let education stop.
For the children, he is more than a teacher. He is a steady presence in a life that often feels uncertain.
Simple Needs That Carry Deep Meaning
- Jerseys for Wednesdays, so all children can feel equal among their peers
- Round tables and chairs, so they can sit together and learn comfortably
These may seem like small requests, but for these children, they represent dignity, equality, and the feeling of belonging.
Gratitude for Those Who Stood With Us
This day became even more meaningful because of the people who stood beside us.
From Bengaluru, BNI members Kumar and Sindhu joined us—not as visitors, but as volunteers. Their presence, time, and willingness to be part of the day brought warmth and encouragement to the children. We are deeply grateful to them.
We were also thankful for the support of Rotary President Dharmesh, whose encouragement strengthens efforts to reach communities that are often unseen.
Above all, Aasha, who connected Kalpaka Foundation with this tribal school, played a role beyond words. Her understanding of the community and her trust made this visit possible. Her contribution cannot be explained—it can only be felt.
Leaving With Full Hearts and a Promise to Return
As we walked away from Manchegowda Hadi, the forest returned to its quiet rhythm. But something stayed with us.
This visit reminded us that change does not always come through big promises. Sometimes, it comes softly—in shared laughter, in a blanket held close on a cold night, and in the knowledge that someone cares enough to return.
The Kalpaka Foundation will come back, carrying forward a bond built on presence, care, and the belief that every tribal child deserves warmth, dignity, and opportunity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does Kalpaka Foundation do to support tribal education?
Kalpaka Foundation supports tribal education through initiatives that address practical needs of children and schools in tribal communities. Its work includes providing educational materials, sports support, and other essentials that can help children learn in a more supportive environment.
2. What other tribal welfare projects has Kalpaka Foundation carried out?
Kalpaka Foundation’s tribal welfare work goes beyond educational and sports support. Its initiatives have included distributing school supplies, sports kits, tables and chairs, blankets, and other essential items, as well as supporting sanitary pad distribution for tribal girls to promote comfort, confidence, and regular school attendance.
3. How many children has Kalpaka Foundation supported through its projects?
Across its completed projects in 2025 and 2026, Kalpaka Foundation has reported supporting around 500 children through initiatives spanning education, tribal welfare, food support, health support, environmental work, and other community-focused activities.
4. Can I support Kalpaka Foundation's work with tribal children?
Yes. Individuals who would like to support Kalpaka Foundation’s work with tribal children can contribute towards initiatives that address educational, material, and other needs identified within the communities.
5. How does Kalpaka Foundation's work support the wider needs of tribal children?
Kalpaka Foundation looks beyond a child’s classroom needs by responding to practical requirements that can affect their comfort, confidence, dignity, and ability to participate in school. Its work with tribal communities combines educational support with essentials such as clothing, sports materials, school furniture, blankets, and menstrual hygiene support where needed.