Berhampur: All of us have heard of stories of a mother’s unconditional love for her children, even at the cost of her life. However, the story of Prabhat Maharana is different. It is the story of Prabhat sacrificing his life for his ailing mother Bharati Maharana.
The 13-year-old has overcome many hurdles to take care of his ailing mother. She was set on fire by her husband. Prabhat’s sense of responsibility, sacrifice and love for his mother is a burning example for teenagers who abandon their parents, patients in the hospital said.
According to sources, Bharati Maharana was married to Bhagban Maharana of Takarada village under Sheragad block in Ganjam district. Bhagban worked as a carpenter. However, he was a habitual drunkard and often assaulted Bharati. The couple frequently fought over Bhagban’s drinking habit. He beat her up mercilessly and tortured her physically and mentally over various reasons.
On the fateful day, the couple’s fight took a violent turn. In a fit of rage, Bhagban poured kerosene on Bhagbati and set her on fire. Neighbours rescued her in critical condition and admitted her to Berhampur MKCG Medical College and Hospital where half-burnt Bharati is battling for life for last two months.
Police registered a case and produced Bhagban in court. He was later remanded in Aska jail after his bail plea was rejected by the court. On the other hand, the mother-son duo is going through a lot of hardship since the incident.
Bharati has suffered 70 per cent burn injuries. Family members first admitted her to a local hospital and later, shifted her to MKCG.
Since then Prabhat has taken the entire responsibilities. From feeding his mother, washing her clothes, fetching medicines and attending to doctor’s advice, Prabhat does all by himself. Belonging to BPL category, Prabhat handles all the expenses for his mother.
Other patients in the hospital are all praises for the boy. More than Rs 70, 000 has been spent on the treatment. ‘I have borrowed money from my co-villagers,’ Prabhat said. ‘I will work and return all the money that I have borrowed,’ he added. He was a bright student. He left his studies to take care of his mother.
This has made Prabhat weak and he has been suffering from fever for five days. However, his health hasn’t come in the way of his service to his mother.
Praising Prabhat’s dedication, some doctors have provided him medicines, edibles and snacks. Bharati is completely bed-ridden. Doctors advised operation and plastic surgery.
However, lack of funds has come up as a hurdle for her operation, Prabhat said.
While boys of his age go to school and enjoy life, the heartbreaking story of Prabhat is an inspiration for many. PNN
