Life Around a Forgotten Well
In Amadi village, Umaria district, Madhya Pradesh, a traditional well had long been neglected. For generations, this traditional well had been Amadi’s main water source, sustaining farming, livestock, and daily needs. It was also part of the village’s cultural life used in rituals, celebrations, and moments of prayer.
But with time and neglect, it had become a symbol of loss. As the well filled with dirt and waste, villagers were forced to walk long distances to fetch water. The drying source deepened their struggle, especially during the scorching summers and harsh winters, making daily life harder for everyone.
A Meeting That Sparked Hope
During Goonj’s ongoing work in the area, villagers gathered to discuss this growing concern. The discussion turned into determination. The villagers decided to revive the well through shramdaan (voluntary collective labor) — a simple idea that would soon bring life, water, and unity back to their community.
Realizing the Crisis, Acting Together
The people of Amadi knew that ignoring this problem meant a tougher future for their children. They decided to take ownership and not wait for outside help, but act as one.
Under the guidance of the village elders, a plan was made. Over the next few days, men, women, and youth worked side by side — cleaning, digging, and rebuilding the old well.
The youth led the physical labor, clearing the debris and cleaning the well’s walls.The women joined actively, removing water and mud, ensuring the well’s inner structure was restored. The elders guided the process, sharing traditional methods and encouraging everyone to stay united.
Community members cleaning the Amadi well
Three Days That Changed Everything
In just three days, with the effort of the villagers, the traditional well was revived. The water returned, clean and usable once again. Encouraged by this success, the community also worked on reviving another well and building a check dam to improve water storage. The village celebrated this achievement as a festival of unity. Elders took the opportunity to talk to children and youth about the importance of water conservation and collective responsibility.
Recognizing Effort Through ‘Cloth for Work’
The work at Amadi was part of Goonj’s Cloth for Work (CFW) initiative — a model where communities receive materials of need in reward of their efforts, not as charity. All the villagers who participated in this effort received a Winter Kit as a reward. For Goonj, winter itself is seen as a disaster- a time when millions across India face severe hardship due to lack of warm clothing and protection.
A Symbol of Resilience and Dignity
The revival of the Amadi well stands as a symbol of collective strength, dignity, and self-reliance. What began as a small act of cleaning an old well turned into a powerful movement of community-led change.
In restoring their well, the people of Amadi didn’t just bring back water but they revived hope, solidarity, and the belief that meaningful change always begins within the community itself.
After the Well Revival Work in Amadi Village
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..
