MATTHEW KURIAN THE SOCIAL ENTREPRENEUR

In our society, the gap between the upper and lower classes has been widening for ages.

- Rajesh Ghadge

There is no upper limit to wealth, yet poverty is at its worst. Scenes of people without food or shelter, begging on every corner, are all too common. When you see a child begging on the street, handing over a dime might ease your conscience, but does it help? These children need more than spare change-love, support, and education. Here, I want to share the inspiring story of a man who provided all these and more, helping hundreds of thousands of underprivileged kids escape the cycle of poverty through education and empowerment.

I've known Matthew Kurian for many years, having first met him during a visit to the El Shaddai Charitable Trust in Assagao. This encounter changed my perspective on street children entirely. I had always seen them begging in shabby clothes, in the most unhygienic conditions. But at El Shaddai, they were just like any other children in society—well-dressed, wellmannered, and, most importantly, welleducated. Witnessing this transformation was astonishing, but it didn't happen overnight. It took years of hard work, dedication, and relentless effort. Rescuing children from the streets and providing them with food, shelter, and education is no simple task. This remarkable journey compelled me to delve deeper and document the story of Matthew Kurian.

I have always loved penning down the most inspiring stories of people from various walks of life. The story of Matthew Kurian inspired me so deeply that I felt compelled to document it, hoping it would help and inspire others as well.