Hope in the hills: Artists, students & citizens unite for Seraj relief
In a heartwarming display of solidarity and compassion, individuals and institutions from across the state have stepped up to support families affected by the recent natural calamity in the Seraj region of Mandi district. From renowned folk singers and student volunteers to civic organisations and local businesses, each group has played a crucial role in bringing relief and hope to the disaster-struck communities.
Leading the efforts was popular singer Hansraj Raghuwanshi, accompanied by his wife Komal Saklani, who visited Seraj two days ago to meet affected families and understand their hardships firsthand. Deeply moved by the devastation, the couple provided direct financial assistance of Rs 11 lakh, handing over Rs 1 lakh each to 11 severely affected families. Komal Saklani said, “While many are distributing food and essentials, we wanted to help rebuild homes. Whatever we have is because of the people’s love. It is only right to give back now.”
The beneficiaries of their generosity included Meena Kumari, Bhima Devi, Rita Devi, Pushpa Devi, Hitesh Kumar, Rukmani, Kalu Devi, Pavinder Kumar, Bherwa Devi, Hansraj and Giridhar, all of whom expressed deep gratitude for the timely support.
In another generous initiative, nine driving schools in Mandi voluntarily came together to contribute Rs 51,000 to affected families. The operators have pledged to continue their support in the weeks ahead, reinforcing the collective spirit of community aid.
From Dalhousie, Praveen Tandan of the Shiv Shakti Youth Club contributed 200 suits, 200 track suits and 200 pairs of slippers, helping ensure that affected residents had basic clothing and comfort during their recovery.
Among the most inspiring contributions has been that of NSS volunteers from Vallabh Government College, Mandi. What started as a logistics support initiative with the district administration on July 4 quickly transformed into an independent relief drive. Under the leadership of Programme Officers Dr Deepali Ashok and Prof Suraj Mani and the guidance of Principal Dr Sanjeev Kumar, students raised Rs 55,000 in just two days through appeals on campus and in local markets.
Volunteers such as Vanshika, Abhishek Raja, Ved Ram, Pushp Raj, Ashwani, Atul Rana and Bharti Devi led the charge, demonstrating extraordinary dedication and organisational ability. Vanshika and Abhishek surveyed remote villages including Ghumral, Jugandh, Bharad, Malbaad, Ration, Kadbaad and Rilla, where they found families walking 7-8 km to obtain basic supplies — highlighting the dire need for targeted relief efforts.
Braving blocked roads and landslides, the volunteers personally delivered torches, tarpaulin sheets, dry rations and other essentials to some of the region’s most isolated households. Their work has become a lifeline for dozens of families and a testament to the power of youth-led community action.
From artists to students, from institutions to individuals, the people of Himachal have shown that compassion is the greatest response to crisis. The Seraj relief efforts have become a beacon of hope, proving that when communities come together with empathy and purpose, true change begins.
Himachal Tribune