A memorial programme was held at Kataiya (22 RD) in Basantpur block of Supaul district on Monday to remember Dr. Chandrakant Patil, a young doctor from Maharashtra who died while treating victims of the devastating 2008 Kosi floods.
Organised by the Dr. Chandrakant Patil Memorial Committee, Supaul, the event marked the first formal Memorial Day at the site associated with his sacrifice. Local residents, activists, teachers, journalists, cultural workers and young people attended and paid floral tributes.
Kabir’s Music Sets the Tone
The highlight of the programme was a performance by folk and Sufi singer Usha Thakur, recipient of the Kosi Gaurav Samman. She presented several of Kabir’s nirgun compositions, including Jhini Jhini Bini Chadariya, Kaun Thagwa Nagariya Lootal Ho and Naiharwa Hamka Na Bhavai.
Accompanied by Arjun Kumar on tabla and Kaleshwar Ji on electronic percussion, Thakur’s performance created a reflective atmosphere around themes of mortality, compassion and sacrifice.
Remembering Dr. Patil’s Service
Writer and journalist Pushparaj recalled Dr. Patil’s journey from Dhule, Maharashtra, where he was the son of a textile mill worker, to medical studies in Mumbai. He said Patil left his studies during the 2008 Kosi disaster and travelled to Bihar with fellow volunteers to provide medical assistance.
According to the press release issued by the organisers, Pushparaj also recalled that Dr. Patil’s father, Umakant Patil, had been assured by former Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi that the doctor would receive state recognition for his sacrifice.
Senior journalist and cultural activist Rajesh Chandra said Dr. Patil’s decision to travel to Kosi reflected a conscious commitment to humanity.
“His death may have been accidental, but his decision to leave his medical studies in Mumbai and travel thousands of kilometres to help the devastated people of Kosi was a conscious moral choice,” he said.
Cultural Tributes and Souvenir
Several speakers remembered Dr. Patil’s life and legacy, while publisher Deepak Dinkar announced a commemorative smarika on his service and sacrifice. Folk singers and school students also presented performances highlighting unity and national integration.
Pledge to Preserve His Legacy
The programme concluded with a collective pledge to preserve Dr. Patil’s memory and carry forward the values of service, compassion and solidarity. Local representatives and community members, including Alok Rai, Chandra Mohan Yadav, Rajesh Mandal, Archana Singh, Indra Narayan Singh “Fauji” and Dr. Amit, attended the memorial.