Chhanikalal Tamang: A Painter Turned Hero
Chhanikalal Tamang, a 33-year-old painter from Timal, Kavre, now residing in Lalitpur Metropolitan City-25, Sugam Basti, is an everyday man with an extraordinary heart. Known in his community for his humble profession of painting houses, Chhanikalal has never been one to seek the spotlight. However, on a fateful Saturday, his bravery and quick thinking turned him into a local hero.
The Heroic Act
On that Saturday, heavy rains had been battering the region since Thursday, causing the Nakhu River to swell with a dangerous flood. While many residents of Sugam Basti were concerned about the rising waters, Chhanikalal, like others, went to the riverbank to see the extent of the flooding. As he walked along the river’s edge, he noticed two people being swept away by the powerful current—a 6-year-old girl, Meghna Sah, and her uncle, Raj Sah.
When he heard their desperate cries for help, Chhanikalal didn’t hesitate. Without a second thought, he plunged into the flooded river to rescue them. Risking his own life, he managed to pull both Meghna and Raj to safety, bringing them to the riverbank. Meghna was unconscious, and it took quick action from Chhanikalal and others to press her stomach, draining the water she had swallowed, and bringing her back to consciousness. Raj, too, was in poor condition but survived thanks to Chhanikalal’s intervention.
Meghna’s father, Raju Sah, had been swept further downstream but was able to swim out on his own. Unfortunately, two other members of their family—4-year-old Setu and their relative Nandu Sah—remained missing after being swept away by the flood.
A Community’s Gratitude
Chhanikalal’s bravery didn’t go unnoticed by his neighbors and the wider community. Purnabahadur Khatri, President of the Sugam Basti Neighborhood Improvement Committee, recounted the events, saying, “We went out to see the damage caused by the flood and to offer help. A family stranded on top of a shelter called for help, and we watched as the flood washed away the shelter. Chhanikalal saved two people, and one swam out on his own.”
While many were helpless in the face of such natural destruction, Chhanikalal’s selfless act stands as a beacon of courage. Thanks to his efforts, Meghna and her uncle Raj survived a disaster that could have easily claimed their lives.
Recognition and Achievement
In recognition of his bravery, KNP Nerolac Paints honored Chhanikalal Tamang during an event held in Kathmandu on Tuesday. The company awarded him a cash prize and publicly acknowledged his heroic efforts. Manoj Mishra, Director of KNP Nepal, expressed immense pride in honoring Chhanikalal, stating, “It is a privilege to recognize such courage. Chhanikalal’s brave actions embody the spirit of selflessness, and we are proud to honor him for his life-saving heroism.”
For a man who typically spends his days painting homes, this extraordinary act of courage brought him well-deserved recognition and admiration from across the community. Chhanikalal Tamang may have been a painter by profession, but his bravery has painted a lasting picture of heroism in the hearts of those he saved and the people who know his story.
A Lasting Legacy
Chhanikalal’s story is not just one of bravery but also one of inspiration. His actions remind us that heroism often comes from unexpected places and that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things. His courage has set a powerful example, and his story will continue to inspire others in the face of adversity.
