A New Beginning, Rooted in Familiar Flavours
In Naigaon, a small village in Jalgaon district of Maharashtra, Ritesh dreamed of starting his own food stall after working as a security guard with the Maharashtra Security Force.
He had picked up the skill of making idlis and vadas from a local vendor during his time in Mumbai—and was eager to bring those flavours home. But like many, his plans were interrupted by the pandemic. Financial instability meant his dream had to pause.
Material as an Enabler, Not a Handout
When Goonj’s Jalgaon field team heard about Ritesh’s intent through a local volunteer, they met with him to understand what he required to get started.
Through the Vaapsi initiative, Goonj reached out with a tailored hotel kit—including a stove, utensils, chairs, and other essentials. But it wasn’t the material alone. It was Ritesh’s readiness that turned potential into progress.
Within days, his stall was up. His idlis were ready. His regulars returned.
“After being enabled by these belongings, I immediately got to work. I was able to fulfill my dream.,” he shared with a smile.
Ritesh serving idli to customers at his roadside stall
Vaapsi is More Than Livelihood—It’s Confidence
Stories like Ritesh’s reflect the spirit of Vaapsi—not just returning to work, but returning with confidence, purpose, and dignity.
Goonj’s role was not to rescue, but to walk alongside, making sure the material didn’t just restore livelihood—but restored agency.
Final Reflection
What Ritesh required was already within him—skills, intent, and vision. All it took was a nudge in the form of material, and he was back on his feet. Not with pity. Not as a project. But as a person reclaiming his path.
This is Vaapsi—a return with dignity, driven by the people.
Be a Part of Change
Our invitation to you is, start from where you are.. From a small change of starting a Goonj kee Gullak or Team 5000, joining a long and deep change process, or things in between- organising a collection drive, a volunteering journey, an internship, or simply walking with us signing for a Goonj monthly newsletter subscription.. More on www.goonj.org or write to [email protected].
Many options, but the choice is always one; Taking Action..
