OTV Impact: Odisha govt rushes 'Sabitri Bhara' to Balasore woman after coverage of her plight

In a heartwarming turn of events, the Odisha government has extended a helping hand to Sumati Jena of Mandar Sahi village, under Bhograi block in Balasore district, after OTV aired her moving story of love, hardship, and resilience.

The coverage, which aired earlier today and was also reported through this news portal, captured the daily struggles of Sumati, who has been caring for her bedridden husband, Paresh Jena, for the past 13 years.

Minister Steps In After OTV Report

The report quickly caught the attention of Krushna Chandra Patra, Odisha’s Minister for Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare.

Deeply moved by her story, the minister directed the local Block Supply Officer to rush assistance to Sumati’s home. Among the items sent was a brand-new sari, a simple but symbolic gesture during ‘Sabitri Brata’, a day when married Hindu women fast and pray for the long life of their husbands.

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A New Sari, A Renewed Smile

Until this morning, Sumati had resigned herself to observing Sabitri Brata in an old, faded sari. But when officials arrived at her doorstep with the new one, her eyes welled up.

Clad in her new attire, Sumati walked to the local temple and performed the sacred rituals.

“I was going to wear an old sari, as I had no choice, but the CM Majhi-led Odisha government came to my aid. I am extremely happy and grateful for this gesture,” she said.

Thirteen Years of Tireless Devotion

As reported earlier, back in 2012, during the Chadak festival at Baba Chandaneswar Temple, Sumita’s husband sustained life-altering injuries while participating in a traditional ritual, rendering him completely immobile.

With no steady income and minimal support, Sumati has worked in others’ homes and continued to care for her husband without complaint, fasting, praying, and serving him every single day.

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Sumati’s story has touched hearts across the state, serving as a reminder that the essence of Sabitri Brata lies not just in rituals but in real acts of sacrifice, compassion, and unwavering love.