Rourkela student becomes a lifeline for street dogs

Rourkela: Sachidananda Nayak, a resident of Chhend in Rourkela city, has emerged as a lifeline for stray dogs in his area.
The 20-year-old college student, who lives in a rented house, spends around Rs 500 daily to feed the dogs he cares so deeply about. His dedication is so strong that on days when he can’t afford food for the dogs, he often forgoes his own meals.
Sachidananda’s compassion for these animals began five years ago when he noticed hungry dogs roaming near his previous residence.What started as offering a few biscuits soon turned into a daily mission. His commitment deepened two years ago when he discovered four abandoned puppies while performing a puja ritual near a river. The day after, he returned with milk for them, and since then, has made it his life’s work to care for stray dogs.
Now, Sachidananda feeds around 50 stray dogs across different localities, including the sector area of Chhend. Each day, he prepares food for the dogs, providing them with bread, biscuits, cooked rice, and sometimes even chicken curry. His routine involves cycling 1.5 kilometres every afternoon to buy supplies, then riding to feed the dogs, who eagerly wait for him. He spends about an hour and a half making sure each dog gets an equal share of food, visiting various spots to ensure none are left behind. “These innocent animals are my life. When I see them hungry, it pains me deeply, and that’s why I give them food. If there’s heavy rain and I can’t go out, it breaks my heart because I know they’re waiting for me, and I can’t even eat that night,” said Sachidananda.
His efforts are supported by his family. “Without my mother’s help, none of this would be possible. She gives me money to buy food for the dogs, and my elder brother helps whenever I need more. I pray to God for strength so that I can continue caring for them,” said Sachidananda.