In a world driven by urban success stories and corporate achievements, the inspiring journey of Neeraj Kumar from Chhoti Sadri, a modest town in Rajasthan’s Pratapgarh district, is a refreshing reminder that true change often begins in silence — with a struggle, a dream, and an unwavering will.
Rising From the Roots: A Small-Town Dreamer’s Beginning
Born on February 3, 1992, in Chhoti Sadri, Neeraj Kumar Prajapat faced more hardship in childhood than most experience in a lifetime. After losing his father at the tender age of two, Neeraj was raised by his mother, Ratni Bai, a resilient woman who toiled in forest-side fields to feed her family. With schooling that ended in the 8th grade due to financial struggles, Neeraj’s story could have been one of surrender — but it became one of transformation.
Despite societal taunts and economic constraints, Neeraj, along with his elder brother Ashok, stood tall. They began Sadashiv Catering, a small venture that would later fund a much bigger mission: social upliftment and rural development.
From Struggles to Service: Launching a Rural Upliftment Movement
What sets Neeraj apart isn’t just his rise from poverty — it’s how he’s chosen to use that success. With the launch of the Sadashiv Meditation Research Foundation, a non-profit organization based in Rajasthan, Neeraj redirected his energy and income towards community empowerment, education access, and youth employment in underserved areas.
While many chase personal growth, Neeraj chose to grow with his community. And that’s what makes his story truly special.
“Dignity shouldn’t be a privilege. I’ve seen how poverty silently robs people of confidence and peace. I want to change that,” Neeraj often says.
Empowering the Youth: Skills Before Degrees
Neeraj’s focus is clear — empower the youth. Understanding the gap between education and employability, he partnered with United for Growth (Dehradun) in June 2025. Together, they aim to offer online training and job opportunities for 10th and 12th pass students, especially from semi-urban and rural areas.
He believes the digital world can be more than just entertainment — it can be a launchpad for thousands. And he’s walking the talk, inspiring other small-town changemakers to step forward.
National Recognition: A Quiet Worker, Loud Impact
Neeraj’s humility and sincerity have begun receiving national attention. On June 11, 2025, he was honored with the prestigious Bharat Seva Award by Bharat Seva Sanstha and VL Foundation, Karnataka — a testament to his growing influence in India’s grassroots development scene.
Yet, Neeraj remains grounded.
“None of this is mine. Whatever I have belongs to the Sadashiv family — my mother, my brother, my wife, and every individual who believed in me.”
How You Can Join the Mission — Even from Afar
While Neeraj never asks for help directly, his work speaks volumes. For those inspired by his story, support doesn’t always have to be monetary. Sometimes, it’s about sharing the story, connecting a young aspirant to a job, or contributing skills to an initiative quietly changing lives.
Every act, big or small, adds to the ripple effect.
A Torchbearer of Hope in the Banswara Belt
The terrain of Banswara division may be rocky, but it’s now home to a man who walks with a soft heart and an iron will. Neeraj Kumar is not just a name from Chhoti Sadri — he’s a movement that reminds us that greatness isn’t born in cities, it’s forged in struggle.
In a time when the world needs more compassion, courage, and community, Neeraj is a living spark of hope — and proof that even small towns can light up the nation.