New Delhi (12/09/2025): There’s an old saying: “Adversity causes some to break; others to break records.” Never has this felt more true than during the recent flooding crisis in Delhi, when the Yamuna River breached the critical danger mark of 205 metres. As the relentless waters surged into low-lying neighborhoods, swallowing streets and homes, thousands were forced to abandon their lives and seek refuge elsewhere. Yet amid this chaos and despair, a remarkable transformation took place. The city’s people did not simply endure—they rose as warriors.
While rescue teams and government agencies worked tirelessly around the clock to evacuate families and establish relief camps, another battalion quietly assembled: ordinary citizens, fueled by compassion and resolve, became what came to be known as the “Hunger Warriors.”
They saw a desperate need not just for shelter, but for sustenance, dignity, and hope. Among these heroes was 91-year-old ex-serviceman O.P. Sharma, whose unwavering spirit galvanized a group of like-minded citizens—Tanuj Sethi, Anila Rampuria of Green Verandah, Anurag Khandelwal, and myself. Together, we launched a langar sewa, a community kitchen, at a relief camp in Mayur Vihar Pocket 1, serving hot meals to the displaced and hungry.
At first glance, this humble kitchen might have seemed like a drop in the ocean. But in reality, it was a beacon—a vivid declaration that humanity’s flame still burns brightly even in the darkest hours.
Addressing the volunteers and displaced families gathered around the makeshift kitchen, OP Sharma reflected, “When Neil Armstrong took that historic step on the moon, he called it ‘one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.’ In the same spirit, our efforts as Hunger Warriors may appear small, but they carry a profound power to inspire. We’ve witnessed this before—during the COVID-19 lockdown, when Delhi’s citizens rose as Covid Warriors to support the vulnerable. Today, as the floodwaters rise, so too does our collective resolve. Adversity reveals true character. Though the floods have battered many lives, they have not broken our spirits. A city may be submerged, but it cannot fall if its people stand united. Years from now, those who answered the call won’t be remembered merely as citizens—they will be hailed as the Redeemers of the Flooded City. This is the day our city fought back.”
Anila Rampuria added, “Seeing a 91-year-old veteran leading the charge reminds us that leadership transcends age. His example challenges the youth to step forward. The floodwaters may have divided us physically, but emotionally and morally, they united us.”
Tanuj Sethi shared, “This crisis proved that ordinary people can become pillars of hope. True civic responsibility doesn’t rest solely on the shoulders of officials—it thrives in the hearts of every individual willing to act. Even in overwhelming circumstances, our collective actions can restore hope and dignity.”
Gopal Singh, a fellow volunteer, observed, “The extraordinary compassion and resilience displayed by everyday citizens during this crisis is nothing short of inspiring. Their solidarity and humanity will forever be remembered as the true strength behind our city’s recovery.”
When the waters rose, Delhi’s citizens didn’t just survive—they fought back with heart, grit, and an unyielding spirit. In this shared struggle, the soul of the city shone brightest, proving that in moments of greatest hardship, the human spirit rises to become a warrior.
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