Mini series: The story of Hydration Hero Savitri and Radha

In the narrow lanes of Sunder Nagri, near Bus Stand No. 205, live two spirited women, Savitri ji and Radha ji. Both in their 50s, both known for their bold voices and tireless fight for their community.

Over the years, they’ve become the backbone of their neighbourhood, campaigning for covered drains, safe roads, and clean surroundings. After a child tragically fell into an open drain and a young man lost his eye to a crumbling wall, they rallied their neighbours, demanded action, and didn’t stop until real change came.

But they didn’t stop there.

At the bus stand, they planted two trees, a neem and a pilkhan, to offer shade to waiting commuters. On scorching summer days, they saw the need for more. So, under the Delhi Rising campaign, they placed a matka of drinking water outside their home, free for anyone who needed it.

They clean and refill it every morning and evening. When one pot broke, they got another. At first, some people were sceptical. But now, even the local kids help guard the matka.

“We don’t have much,” says Radha, “but no one should stay thirsty just because they can’t afford a bottle of water.”

“All I know is how to spin thread,” laughs Savitri, “but society runs on a thread too, doesn’t it?”

They haven’t studied social work or the environment. But their work is its own kind of school. These women show us that change doesn’t need grand schemes. It can start with something as small and round as a clay pot.

Now, when people pass by their home, they pause. They sip from the pot. They rest under the tree’s shade. And they glance with quiet admiration at the two women who, without asking for credit, have made their corner of the city a little softer, a little kinder.

This is the real Delhi Rising.