Visit of Mr. Stephan (President, Morning Light – Switzerland) to India
Dates: 3 August 2025 – 7 August 2025
The first week of August 2025 was truly special for Sanjeevani Social Welfare Society. It was not just the arrival of a guest, but the welcome of a friend, a mentor, and the rays of hope for thousands of faces—Mr. Stephan, President of Morning Light – Switzerland.
His visit was to hear the living stories behind the numbers—the laughter of children, the blessings of mothers, and the hope for a better tomorrow. It was to closely witness the grassroots work of educational and health projects, engage directly with beneficiaries, and strengthen sanjeevani commitment to work of better tomorrow
Day 1 – 3 August 2025
At around 3:15 PM, Mr. Stephan was warmly welcomed at Varanasi Airport by Sanjeevani’s Office Administrator, Mr. Ajay Kumar Srivastava, who presented him with a bouquet. He was then taken to Hotel India in Varanasi City for some rest.
In the evening, the first formal and important session of the visit began at 6 PM in the hotel’s conference hall. General Secretary Dr. V.S. Pandey, Office Administrator Ajay Kumar Srivastava, and Assistant Manager Akash Kumar Singh met Mr. Stephan.
Dr. Pandey presented a specially prepared PowerPoint showcasing Sanjeevani’s inspiring journey from its inception to the present, highlighting various programs, as well as numerous initiatives carried out in collaboration with Morning Light and their positive impact. The presentation effectively featured innovative efforts in the fields of education and healthcare for underprivileged children, along with concrete and result-oriented measures taken to improve access to these essential services.
Mr. Stephan watched the presentation with deep interest and visible delight.
The first day thus became not only a formal introduction but also the foundation for deeper dialogue and site visits in the days ahead.
Day 2 – 4 August 2025
The morning was filled with freshness and enthusiasm. At exactly 8:30 a.m., Dr. V. S. Pandey and Akash Kumar Singh escorted Mr. Stephan from the hotel towards Sonbhadra. The journey unfolded like a painting of rural India—lush green fields, distant hills, and villages radiating simplicity. On the way, they stopped at a roadside dhaba, where Mr. Stephan enjoyed a steaming hot cup of tea served in a traditional clay kulhad.
By around 11:30 a.m., they arrived at Sanjeevani Bal Vidya Mandir. The visit began with Mr. Stephan observing the portraits of great personalities displayed in the office and learning about their significance. After a brief refreshment,
In front of the statue of Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, Mr. Stephan lit a ceremonial lamp and offered flowers as a mark of respect.
At around 11:30 he reached Sanjeevani Bal Vidya Mandir. The principal and others welcomed him. Garlands were put around his neck and the students sang a welcome song. This was not just a formal welcome but a living example of the warmth of the relationship between Sanjeevani and Morning Light.
Mr. Stephen visited the classrooms and met the integrated children and their teachers.
Mr. Stephan met Sanjeevani Mitra (friends) and discussed various issues with them. After the discussion, Sanjeevani Mitra (friends) expressed their gratitude to Shri Stephen for his cooperation.
On the way back, he distributed Swiss chocolates to the children, filling the school with laughter and joy
A group photograph with all the students and teachers beautifully captured this unforgettable moment—one of the most touching occasions for the Sanjeevani family with Mr. Stephan.
A particularly touching moment came when some women well-wishers tied rakhi on Mr. Stephan’s wrist—a gesture he received with warmth, gratitude, and a radiant smile.
The final highlight of the day was a tree plantation. With his own hands, Mr. Stephan planted a sapling. In the moist soil and fresh greenery lay the hope of a better tomorrow—just like this tree, which will grow to provide shade and life for generations to come..
Day 3 – 5 August 2025
Therapy & Rehabilitation Centre, Barji, Danganj, Varanasi –
Arriving at 12:30 PM, Mr. Stephan was greeted warmly by staff and special children. Their smiles and sparkling eyes seemed to say, “We’ve been eagerly waiting for you.”
He personally experienced Sanjeevani’s specialized services:
Special education room – Here, children were receiving individualized lessons from special educators, tailored to their specific needs. Each child was learning at their own pace and according to their abilities. Alongside academic learning, various exercises and playful activities were being conducted to improve their gross motor skills.
Classroom – the teacher engaged children in practice work, surrounded by educational and motivational charts.
Yoga session – some children meditated, while others did light exercises, guided by Yoga guru (instructor)
Physiotherapy room – trainers were helping children to improve flexibility and balance, with therapy charts bearing the Sanjeevani and Morning Light logos.
Mr. Stephan carefully observed Some children shared their small dreams. Parents spoke emotionally about how Morning Light’s support was a “ray of hope.” One mother said:
“We once believed our child could never stand/sit/move like others but now, with Sanjeevani’s & Morning Light’s help, we can dream about their future.”
Sanjeevani Health Unit – Choukaghat, Varanasi
In the afternoon, Mr. Stephen went to the health unit and met the children who had undergone clubfoot surgery. Their tiny feet were still covered in bandages and plaster, but their faces were glowing with relief and joy.
The parents were calling it nothing short of a miracle. Parents and children greeted Mr. Stephen by folding their hands and touching his feet. A group photograph with all the staff beautifully captured this unforgettable moment with Mr. Stephan.
Day 5 –7 August 2025
Signing of the Agreement Deed & Conclusion of the Visit
The visit concluded with group photographs and the sharing of memories. Mr. Stephan praised the team’s commitment and dedication.
