Something I Look At-381 Poem by Smrui Ranjan Mohanty

SOMETHING I LOOK AT-381
BY-SMRUTI RANJAN MOHANTY

A tribute to my grand father
Late Dhaneswar Mohanty

Deep in the village of Padmapur, a soul was born,

Humbled by hardships, through sorrow he was torn.

Adored by his sister, Maya Devi, so kind,

Nurtured with love, though life wasn't aligned.

Early he lost his parents, yet courage grew,

Suffering taught lessons that few ever knew.

Wisdom he gathered, though no school he'd attend,

A master of languages, his learning knew no end.

Remarrying Durga, his heart did mend.

Mind steeped in scripture, Bhagwat his guide,

Overflowing with kindness, his wealth set aside.

High was his standing, yet humble his way,

A supporter of learning, his deeds still convey.

Nationalist at heart, though silent in fight,

To women's education, he brought forth light.

Years of his wisdom, a legacy so bright.

Smruti Ranjan Mohanty©
India
16.1.2025
All copyrights reserved

(Dhaneswar Mohanty, the son of Balamukunda Mohanty and Durga Devi, and the grandson of Gokulananda Mohanty and Subashi Devi, was born on 18th July 1907 in Padmapur. He was the great-grandson of Pitambara Mohanty and Kanak Devi. He departed for his heavenly abode on 25th November 1991.

Dhaneswar lost his parents at a young age and was lovingly raised by his sister, Maya Devi, though his childhood was marked by hardship and sorrow. He endured further tragedy when he lost his first wife early in life, later remarrying Durga Devi. Despite having no formal education, he mastered four languages—Odia, Hindi, Bengali, and English—through self-learning and perseverance.

A wealthy landlord and one of the most affluent individuals in the region, Dhaneswar was known for his compassion and spiritual inclinations. He was deeply versed in the Srimad Bhagavatam and had extensive knowledge of other scriptures. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to listening to the Bhagavatam recited at the Bhagavat Gadi.

Dhaneswar was instrumental in the establishment and growth of Alanahat High School, contributing generously to its development. He was also a passive supporter of India's National Movement and helped many achieve their goals through his guidance and resources. A staunch advocate of women's education, he worked tirelessly to uplift and empower women in his community.

His legacy lives on as a symbol of wisdom, generosity, and spiritual devotion.)