In response to the devastating floods and landslides that have affected vast regions of North Bengal, the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), in collaboration with the Sourav Ganguly Foundation, has launched a major food relief initiative to support families impacted by the disaster.
As part of this initiative, nutritious cooked meals are being provided daily to over 2,500 families impacted by the disaster in and around Siliguri. This service will be maintained for a minimum of ten days, ensuring food security for those who have been displaced.
The initiative represents a new chapter in the ongoing humanitarian collaboration between Sourav Ganguly and ISKCON. During the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, the Sourav Ganguly Foundation partnered with ISKCON to provide millions of meals to underprivileged families throughout Kolkata—a commendable act that motivated many to engage in selfless service during those challenging times.
Speaking about the ongoing relief operation, Radharamn Das, Vice-President of ISKCON Kolkata, said, “We are deeply grateful to Shri Sourav Ganguly and his foundation for once again standing beside ISKCON in serving the people of Bengal. During the COVID-19 crisis, our partnership brought food and hope to countless families in Kolkata. Today, as North Bengal faces this severe flood situation, we are together again, ensuring that no one goes hungry. This is the true spirit of Bengal – where compassion and teamwork transcend all barriers.”
Expressing his concern and admiration, Sourav Ganguly, Founder of the Sourav Ganguly Foundation, said, “At this moment, it is our duty to stand beside the people of North Bengal and extend every possible support. It is heartbreaking to see so many lives disrupted by the floods and landslides. Natural calamities continue to affect countless lives, and this is the time for us to come together and support those in need. I have always admired ISKCON’s tireless humanitarian work – whether during floods, earthquakes, war zones, or the COVID-19 pandemic. Their unwavering commitment to feeding the hungry and serving humanity selflessly is truly inspiring. It is an honour for my foundation to collaborate once again with ISKCON in this noble cause.”
ISKCON volunteers have been working diligently to prepare and distribute fresh meals from their Siliguri center, as well as from mobile kitchens deployed to various affected areas. They are committed to ensuring that the most vulnerable members of society receive timely assistance. Through these efforts, ISKCON upholds its enduring “Food for Life” mission—a global initiative rooted in the teachings of His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the Founder-Acharya of ISKCON. This mission aims to guarantee that no one experiences hunger, particularly during times of crisis.