Visit to Navodaya School, Chitwan – Nepal

Kannatt Surendran visited Chitwan District, Nepal, which was a deeply moving and memorable experience that left a lasting impact on him.

Chitwan is best known as the home of the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Chitwan National Park, but beyond its natural beauty lies a rich human story. The region has long been inhabited by indigenous communities such as the Tharu and the more isolated Chepang tribes. These communities have lived in close harmony with the forests and river systems of the Terai plains and surrounding hills, shaping cultures and livelihoods that are both unique and fragile.

Kannatt Surendran undertook this visit as a member of the Loka Kerala Sabha representing the Pravasi Malayali community outside Kerala, and as Vice Chairman of the World Malayalee Council – Global Diaspora. The purpose was to connect with Malayalis who are actively involved in running educational institutions in Nepal and to understand the humanitarian work they are doing on the ground.

During this journey, Kannatt Surendran had the opportunity to visit the Navodaya Residential School in Khairahani, Chitwan District, which has been managed with unwavering dedication by Fr. Cherian for the past 25 years. The school plays a crucial role in the education and upliftment of children from the Chepang community, a historically marginalized and formerly nomadic tribal group.

The Chepang people were traditionally forest dwellers, relying on hunting, fishing, and food gathering for survival. Over generations, they have remained among the most disadvantaged communities in Nepal, facing extreme poverty, social isolation, and low literacy levels. Education initiatives like Navodaya School are not just institutions—they are lifelines for these children and their families.

Along with a few friends, Kannatt Surendran also visited other schools run by Malayalis in the region. Kannatt Surendran was able to extend financial support towards the welfare of the tribal community. Their needs are urgent and ongoing-food, shelter, clothing, education, and sustainable livelihood opportunities remain critical areas requiring attention.

Kannatt Surendran returned from Chitwan with a renewed sense of responsibility and commitment. The experience strengthened my resolve to continue supporting the Chepang community and to stand firmly with our Malayali brothers and sisters who have dedicated their lives to such noble humanitarian missions far away from home.

This visit reaffirmed the belief of the global Malayali community, under the leadership and vision of Shri. Kannatt Surendran and the World Malayalee Council, has a meaningful role to play in driving compassion, service, and positive change across borders.