From Adversity to Advocacy: How a Polio Survivor is Quenching the Thirst of 64 Villages

Despite being diagnosed with polio, Abhay Todkar from Dahiwadi, Satara, Maharashtra, has become a beacon of hope for 64 drought-prone villages. His journey from managing an STD booth to running a gas agency taught him resilience. However, his true calling emerged after joining the Sudarshan Kriya program under Art of Living, which inspired him to serve his community.

Path to PurposeAbhay’s turning point came when he led the construction of a large, community-built dam on the Manganga River in 2015-16. The project ended the village's dependence on water tankers and saved crores of rupees. His success in Dahiwadi motivated him to bring water conservation efforts to 64 neighboring villages through dam construction, organic farming, and youth leadership initiatives.

Inspiring ChangeWorking with the Paani Foundation and leading Shramdaan rallies, Abhay’s innovative water conservation strategies turned skeptics into believers. Notably, Pingali-Kd village, initially unenthusiastic, saw the success of Dahiwadi and joined the cause. Abhay’s passion, perseverance, and focus on community-driven change have redefined possibilities for drought-prone regions.

A Lasting LegacyAbhay Todkar’s story is one of grit and transformation. From a polio-affected child to a water conservation leader, his impact resonates across 64 villages, offering a model for resilience, community service, and hope.