Missing for four years, 65-year-old elderly man returns home in Odisha's Umerkote

A 65-year-old man from Dasharapada Sahi in Umerkote, Nabarangpur district, who had been missing for four years, made an unexpected return home this week. The elderly man, Lalu Harijan, had travelled to Delhi with his daughter for medical treatment when he mysteriously disappeared amidst the capital’s heavy crowd. Despite years of searching and police complaints, his whereabouts remained unknown, until now.

A Family’s Agony Turns to Joy

The Harijan household, once shrouded in uncertainty and grief, erupted in joy as Lalu walked through the door after four long years. The family had lodged written complaints with both Umerkote and Delhi Police, but no trace of him was ever found.

“House without its head was incomplete,” said family members, overwhelmed by his return.

How Lalu Went Missing

According to information gathered, Lalu had begun feeling unwell during his stay in Delhi. One evening, while out for a walk, he reportedly felt dizzy and collapsed. Some kind-hearted locals rescued him and admitted him to a nearby hospital. After recovery, he was shifted to the Ratnakar Foundation in Delhi for care.

When his health deteriorated again, he was transferred to a care centre in Raigad, Maharashtra, where he eventually regained full strength. Only after recovering did he reveal his home address.

The organisation then contacted his family and safely brought Lalu back to Odisha.

“We had sent them his photograph, and once they confirmed it was him, we were overjoyed. We had almost lost hope of ever finding him again. They even shared pictures of him receiving treatment. After getting in touch with the organisation, a few people from our village travelled there and brought him back home. They also provided two months’ worth of medication for his recovery and asked us to return for follow-up check-ups. Our entire family is immensely happy,” said Vivek, a neighbour from the village.

A Bittersweet Homecoming

Although reunited with his family, tragedy shadows Lalu’s return, his wife passed away during the years he was missing. Still, the family has expressed deep gratitude to the organisations and individuals who cared for him during his ordeal.

Conclusion

Lalu Harijan’s story is a remarkable reminder of hope, resilience and humanity. His return after four long years stands as proof that even in moments of despair, kindness and compassion can guide a lost soul back home.