In the bustling city of Khobar, Saudi Arabia, a remarkable story of resilience and transformation unfolds. Manju Manikuttan, an Indian expatriate, turned personal adversity into a beacon of hope for many, redefining the narrative of deportation and success.
A New Beginning in Saudi Arabia
Born and raised in Kerala, India, Manju moved to Khobar in 2011 with her husband, Padmanabhan Manikuttan, and their two children. She began working as a beautician, immersing herself in the local community. It was here that she encountered Safiya Ajith, a renowned social worker and vice president of the Navayugam Cultural Forum. This meeting would prove to be a turning point in Manju’s life.
Deportation: Stepping into Social Service
Under Safiya’s mentorship, Manju was introduced to the challenges faced by expatriate workers, especially women, in Saudi Arabia. These individuals often grappled with legal issues, health problems, and employment disputes. Tragically, after a year of collaboration, Safiya passed away due to cancer, leaving a significant void in the support system for these workers. Recognizing the urgency, Navayugam entrusted Manju with Safiya’s responsibilities, a role she embraced wholeheartedly.
Championing the Cause of Expatriate Workers
Manju’s dedication to assisting expatriate workers became evident as she navigated complex legal landscapes to resolve cases involving housemaids, domestic workers, hospital staff, and fellow beauticians. Many of these individuals faced issues such as employer disputes, health crises, and visa complications. Through her unwavering commitment, Manju facilitated the repatriation of numerous women, ensuring they returned home safely after resolving their legal predicaments.
Recognition and Honors
In acknowledgment of her tireless efforts, Manju was awarded the Nari Shakti Puraskar in 2019, India’s highest civilian honor for women. The President of India, Ram Nath Kovind, presented this prestigious award at the Presidential Palace in New Delhi on International Women’s Day. Manju’s recognition was particularly noteworthy as she was the sole expatriate woman honored that year. During her visit, she also had the opportunity to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Minister Maneka Gandhi, further highlighting the significance of her contributions.
A Supportive Partnership
Behind Manju’s success is a strong partnership with her husband, Padmanabhan. Together, they have opened their home to those in need, providing shelter and support to expatriate workers facing dire circumstances. Their combined efforts have created a sanctuary for many, exemplifying the profound impact of community and compassion.
Continuing the Legacy
Today, Manju serves as the central committee vice president of Navayugam Samskarika Vedi. Her work has earned her numerous accolades from various organizations and NGOs. Despite the challenges, she remains steadfast in her mission, offering hope and assistance to those navigating the complexities of expatriate life in Saudi Arabia.
A Broader Context
Manju’s story stands in contrast to the often harsh realities faced by deportees worldwide. Reports have highlighted the dire conditions in detention centers, characterized by overcrowding, inadequate hygiene, and limited access to food. Deportees frequently endure prolonged detentions and face significant challenges upon repatriation. In this context, Manju’s proactive approach offers a blueprint for positive change, emphasizing the importance of support systems and advocacy in transforming lives.
Conclusion
Manju Manikuttan’s journey from a beautician to a celebrated social worker underscores the power of resilience, empathy, and community engagement. Her unwavering commitment to aiding expatriate workers has not only transformed individual lives but has also set a precedent for humanitarian efforts in similar contexts. In a world where deportation often signals despair, Manju’s story is a testament to the potential for triumph and the profound impact of dedicated social service.
This article is based on information from various sources, including the Wikipedia page on Manju Manikuttan.
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