A Journey of Dedication – Aadaranjali to Mananeeya Aparna Palkar, Jeevanvrati, Vivekananda Kendra (29 July 1954 to 9 March 2025)

We talk about women’s empowerment quite vociferously these days. We discuss equality, inclusiveness, and embracing diversity. But for me, these are not new concepts. During my year of volunteering with Vivekananda Kendra in Arunachal Pradesh, I met people who have not only realized these values but have also lived them and inspired others to create a beautiful blend of these ideals long before they became popular.

In the 1970s, a batch of Jeevanvrati Karyakartas (life workers) from Vivekananda Kendra went to Arunachal Pradesh. Just think about it—back in the 70s! Even today, most people visit Tawang, and only recently have places like Ziro Valley started gaining attention. But back then, there were no proper channels of communication, no modern infrastructure, and yet, these dedicated individuals ventured into the unknown. How did they manage to reach such remote places? How did they get support from their families? And most importantly, what inspired them?

This is the story of one such remarkable woman—Mananeeya Aparna Palkar, a Jeevanvrati Karyakarta who, in her early 20s, went to Arunachal Pradesh and dedicated her entire life to the cause of Man-Making and Nation-Building, as envisioned by Swami Vivekananda. A woman with an adventurous heart, guided by a noble intent, she lived a life of Sadhana (dedicated practice) in the truest sense.

From Amravati (Maharashtra) to Tafra Gam (Arunachal Pradesh)

On March 9, 2025, she peacefully rested in eternal peace. Through these words, I have tried to offer my Adaranjali (tribute) to her.

She carved a path of equality, inclusivity, and empowerment—to sum up these concepts, she truly lived the life of oneness. Not only did she embrace diversity, but she also became one with the people she served. She lived their life, understood their challenges, and curated solutions that were tailored to their way of living. Just as Swami Vivekananda had numerous European and American disciples, including Sister Nivedita, Aparna Didi left her home and embarked on a beautiful journey of Seva (selfless service) and Tyaga (renunciation) to spread Swami Ji’s teachings in the farthest corners of Bharat. She was first posted to Tafra Gam village in the Lohit district of Arunachal Pradesh.

During my stay, we visited the school she helped establish. It was around 6:30 in the evening in January when we reached the signboard of Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya (VKV) Tafra Gam. The surroundings were dark, with trees on both sides of the hilly road. We weren’t sure if we were on the right path, so we called the principal. He assured us we were heading in the right direction and urged us to continue. When we finally reached, we were in awe—what we saw was beyond imagination!

There stood a well-maintained, beautifully lit school with a vast ground, a school building, residential quarters for teachers, a student hostel, and a large hall. The energy of the place was positive and uplifting. And this wasn’t just any school—it was a residential school for 350 girls! This was the very institution Aparna Didi had come to build in the 70s when conditions were unimaginably difficult. Back then, even crossing the river required waiting for two days for the right current, so that the elephants could wade through. Life workers like her walked miles and miles, enduring hardships, yet remained unwavering in their dedication.

During our visit, we met Aparna Didi’s former students, now settled in their lives. What they shared was heartwarming—Aparna Didi took care of them as if they were her own children. She taught them hygiene, academics, good habits, and life lessons. Even in heavy rains, if the students couldn’t make it to school, she would walk to their villages to teach them and interact with their parents. She wasn’t just a teacher— She was a family to them. The very thought that she had come from another part of India just for them, and the recognition of her sacrifice, motivated them to attend school diligently.

The efforts of Jeevanvratis like her are immeasurable. This is just one story among countless others. In her 45 years of service, Aparna Didi has touched innumerable hearts. Her life, filled with Sankalp (resolve) and Samarpan (dedication), is a guiding light for all of us.

The essence of true empowerment lies in the intent behind our work. A noble cause, driven by good intent, has the power to move mountains and create miracles. Stepping beyond our comfort zones and expanding our definition of family to include the nation is the true essence of walking the path of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family). It is not just about believing in this philosophy but living it in practice.

Any work done with pure intent speaks the universal language of humanity.

May Aparna Didi’s life inspire us all to dedicate ourselves to a meaningful cause—one that fuels us till our last breath, giving our lives purpose, and empowering us to sacrifice more for the greater good!