Free winter clothing fair marks Khudiram Bose birth anniversary
The Statesman | 4 December 2025
The National Service Scheme of Balagarh Bijoy Krishna Mahavidyalaya celebrated the birth anniversary of martyr Khudiram Bose in a unique manner, organising a free winter clothing fair for migrant workers in his memory. The event had a special significance – honouring Khudiram’s vision of an exploitation-free India by supporting migrant labourers, who still face hardships in health, education and clothing.
The fair began with the garlanding of Khudiram’s portrait by the Principal and distinguished guests. The “Khudiram Smriti Haat”, the name given to the clothing fair, was then declared open. Volunteers distributed blankets, sweaters and warm clothing at no cost. The items were collected by the volunteers through the past year from generous donors in the community.
What set the fair apart was its dignity-focused approach, not framing it as charity. Volunteers displayed the items, and the migrant workers and their children were free to select what they needed, instead of being handed out to them through a queue.
The birth anniversary of Khudiram Bose carries the message of improving the living standards of labourers and their children through better access to education, healthcare, and clothing. This initiative reflects the spirit of Khudiram’s dream, bringing it to life in a small but meaningful way.