Biswajit Jha had a promising career as a sports editor in a major Delhi media house. He was at the center of sports journalism, writing stories read by millions and interacting with top athletes. His wife, Dr. Sanjukta Saha, was thriving in her role as a teacher at a leading management college. Yet, despite their successful lives, the call of home — Mendabari village in West Bengal — grew stronger each year.
Biswajit had experienced what it was like to grow up without the resources he needed for a proper education. “I started learning English on my own when I was in 9th standard,” he shared. The idea of providing better opportunities for the children in the tribal regions of West Bengal had been a dream for years — one that he finally decided to turn into reality.
In 2013, after the birth of their son, Biswajit and Sanjukta made a life-changing decision. They left their jobs in Delhi and moved to Bengal, driven by the desire to create lasting change for the children of Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, and Alipurduar districts.
Building from Scratch
Starting from scratch was not just a choice — it was the only option. With no formal school building, the couple began teaching in a small rented room. The subjects they covered included English, mathematics, music, dance, and computer skills — anything they could manage. Although the initial response was slow, word began to spread.
Children who had dropped out of school started returning, and skeptical parents began to notice the spark of curiosity and hope in their children’s eyes.
Using their savings from their Delhi careers, they bought a piece of land and built a permanent school. However, this school was not just focused on academics. “This school provides not only academic learning but also practical skills that will help children in the future,” Dr. Saha explained.
The couple combined traditional wisdom with modern skills, ensuring that the children stayed connected to their cultural roots while preparing for the broader world.
Football: More Than Just a Game
Biswajit, with his background in sports journalism, knew that many of India’s best football talents were hidden in its remotest areas. “The talents in football are in the remote areas of the country,” he remarked.
Having seen young players rise to national prominence, such as Manoj Mohammad who now plays for Hyderabad FC in the ISL, Biswajit was confident that Mendabari’s children could make it as well.
Four years ago, the couple established a football academy alongside their school. Today, some of their students are training with top Kolkata clubs. “Mendabari can be a hot spot for football talents,” Biswajit said, and watching these children chase their dreams on the field only reinforces his belief.
Winning Over the Village
Building a school was one challenge, but winning the trust of the village was another. Coming from Delhi, Biswajit initially struggled to communicate in a way that resonated with the villagers.
“Working in a village means you need to communicate with the people in a way they understand,” he explained. The villagers were suspicious. Why would someone leave a comfortable life to work among them? But over time, trust was built.
Today, the same parents who were once hesitant now proudly send their daughters to school rather than marrying them off early. Girls are not just studying; they are dancing, singing, and playing football. The village of Mendabari is buzzing with a new energy.
“The drop-out rate has reduced, and young girls who were getting married early are now studying, playing, and learning new skills at our school,” Biswajit said with a quiet smile.
Preserving Roots
The school doesn’t just focus on academics and sports; it also integrates tribal traditions through music, dance, storytelling, and art. Dr. Saha believes that preserving culture is just as important as teaching math or coding. The children are learning to take pride in their heritage while also dreaming bigger.
Environmental education is also part of the curriculum. Students are involved in tree planting, waste management, and even organic farming. Education at this school isn’t confined to textbooks — it extends into the fields, the forests, and everyday life.
Paying It Forward
Running a free school and football academy is costly. That’s where Epic Public School in Cooch Behar plays a role. This formal school operates under the Rajganj Maa Sarada Shishu Tirtha Charitable Society.
“The surplus funds we collect from Epic Public School are used to support the school and football academy at Mendabari,” Biswajit explained. This model is a smart one — urban students fund the dreams of rural children.
Looking to the Future
The couple’s journey is just beginning. Biswajit envisions scaling up their efforts — finding corporate sponsors, launching livelihood programs for villagers, and replicating the success of Mendabari in other tribal areas.
“Mendabari is one of the poorest villages in India,” Biswajit said, “but there’s rich potential waiting to be unlocked.”
From a tiny room with a handful of students to a vibrant center of learning and sports, Biswajit and Sanjukta’s journey demonstrates that real change doesn’t always require large investments or flashy campaigns. Sometimes, it begins with two people, some savings, and the firm belief that things can improve.
In Mendabari, that belief is now growing stronger — one child, one football, and one song at a time.
