In the heart of Kolkata, amidst the chaos of urban life, stands Humanity Hospital—a place that has become synonymous with compassion, resilience, and hope. The hospital’s origin story is as heart-wrenching as it is inspiring, a tale of a woman who transformed her personal grief into a legacy of care for the poor and marginalized.
A Personal Loss that Sparked a Vision
The journey of Humanity Hospital began with a tragic personal loss. Subhasini Mistry, born into poverty in the rural areas of West Bengal, lost her husband to a preventable illness due to lack of medical facilities in the region. Her husband’s death left her with four children and an overwhelming sense of helplessness. It was during this challenging time that Subhasini vowed to ensure that no one else would experience the pain of losing a loved one due to inaccessible healthcare.
Despite her own struggles, Subhasini had a clear vision for the future: to build a hospital that would serve the poor and offer affordable healthcare to those who needed it most. With no formal education, she was told her dreams were impossible, but she did not give up. She worked tirelessly in various jobs, from selling vegetables to working as a maid, saving every penny to fund her mission. Her relentless determination paid off when, after years of hardship, she was able to purchase a piece of land in Hanspukur, a suburban area near Kolkata, to start building her hospital.
Overcoming Challenges to Build a Dream
Starting a hospital from scratch was not easy. The lack of infrastructure, the poverty-stricken locality, and the absence of skilled workers were all major obstacles. Yet, Subhasini pushed forward. With the help of the local community, who donated labor and resources, she laid the foundation for what would become Humanity Hospital.
In 1993, after years of hard work, Humanity Hospital opened its doors to the public. What started as a small, one-room clinic soon transformed into a 45-bed hospital, equipped with basic medical facilities. The hospital’s early focus was on offering primary care and maternal health services. Over time, it expanded its services to cater to a wider range of medical needs, including diagnostics, surgeries, and emergency care.
Subhasini’s son, Ajoy Mistry, played a pivotal role in the hospital’s success. After completing his medical studies, Ajoy returned to Hanspukur to join his mother in running the hospital. His training and medical expertise, combined with Subhasini’s vision and commitment, helped Humanity Hospital grow into a respected healthcare institution.
A Beacon of Hope for the Marginalized
Today, Humanity Hospital is known for providing high-quality medical care at minimal costs. The hospital’s mission is to ensure that every individual, regardless of their financial status, has access to necessary healthcare. Over the years, Humanity Hospital has become a symbol of hope for the underprivileged in West Bengal, providing services that many could not otherwise afford.
Humanity Hospital has expanded its reach and continues to grow, adding more beds, modern medical equipment, and new departments to address the needs of the community. Subhasini’s legacy lives on through her hospital, as it remains a vital resource for those in need of medical care.
Legacy and Recognition
Subhasini’s tireless work has not gone unnoticed. In 2018, she was awarded the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honor, in recognition of her extraordinary contributions to society. Her life story has inspired countless others and serves as a reminder of the power of determination, love, and compassion.
