Chembur is not just where I live — it’s where I belong. I was born and brought up here. My father, Late Pandit Ramrup Awasthi, was among the first few settlers who came from the village and laid down roots in this land over 60 years ago. More than just building a life for himself, he helped many others from our village find their footing here. He worked closely with the local corporators and BMC officials of that time to support the development of the area. He was a true reformer — deeply concerned about the upliftment of people living in slums and always striving for their betterment. ​ His dedication and vision for our Ward shaped my childhood. From a very young age, I was involved in his work — whether it was organizing, coordinating, or simply understanding how change is brought about. He taught me that it’s not only our right but our responsibility to give back — with time, resources, and most importantly, with our voice.Even though he left us too soon, his mission didn’t end with him. I carry that legacy with pride and a deep sense of duty. My commitment to continue what he started is my biggest inspiration. ​ Over the years, I’ve watched Chembur grow and change — some parts flourish, others left behind. I soon realized that to drive meaningful change, I needed to work with systems like the BMC, and that led me to contest the local corporation elections. Being elected gave me the platform to not only expand my network but truly represent the people of our Ward. The turning point came during the pandemic. When fear, confusion, and desperation were everywhere, many officials vanished, and the people were left helpless — searching for beds, food, masks, and even information. I couldn’t stay indoors. I stepped out — because these were my people, my home, and they needed me. ​ There are moments in history that test character. The COVID-19 pandemic was one such moment — a time when fear eclipsed certainty, and confusion became a way of life. But even in the darkest of days, some people rise, not because they have to, but because they feel responsible. ​ For Gaanesh R. Awasthi, the pandemic wasn’t just a crisis — it was a turning point. Chembur is his home. The people of Ward 149 are his extended family. So when the pandemic hit and the world shut down — when government officials disappeared, when hospitals ran out of beds, and when citizens ran out of food, medicines, and even hope — Gaanesh stepped out. Not for recognition. Not for applause. But because his people needed him. While many stayed indoors to protect themselves, Gaanesh R. Awasthi became a frontline warrior — a true #CovidWarrior — driven by the principle of "Service Before Self." ​ Relief That Reached Thousands: 11+ Initiatives That Made a Difference Gaanesh didn't wait for systems to respond. He created his own — quick, agile, community-led responses that brought real relief to thousands of families. His efforts touched every part of pandemic life — from health to hunger, from safety to information. To date, he has led more than 11 major initiatives across Ward 149: Created a Citizens Support Task Force To educate, inform, and guide residents with reliable COVID-19 updates. Supporting Local with Esstentials Arranged affordable vegetable supplies to reduce the strain on families. Cooked Food Distribution For infected families and stranded travelers, ensuring they didn’t sleep hungry. Ration Kits for the Needy Daily wage workers and slum dwellers received monthly food support. Covid Awareness Camps Busting myths, spreading precaution tips, and calming panic with facts. Distribution of Arsenic Album 30 A homeopathic immunity booster, delivered free of cost to thousands. RTPCR Testing Drives in Societies Made early detection accessible and widespread. Vaccination Camp Support Assisted in organizing and smoothing vaccination processes, addressing doubts and logistics. Distribution of Fast & Up, Vitamin C & Zinc Tablets To boost immunity among residents and prevent severe illness. Sanitization Drives Across police stations, clinics, gardens, temples, mosques, and homes — wherever infections were found. Doorstep Testing in Coordination with BMC A critical step in making testing accessible to senior citizens and vulnerable families. Through it all, his team knew the risks — working in containment zones, entering COVID-positive homes — but they carried on, driven by one motto: “Service before Self.” This earned them not only respect but also the trust and gratitude of an entire Ward.