The ‘Medicine Man’ of UP: How one father turned grief into free healthcare for thousands

In Salempur, Uttar Pradesh, a man is earning the title of the “Medicine Man” for his relentless efforts to provide free medical care to the poor. Rajesh Singh Dayal started this mission after the tragic death of his 23-year-old son, Kunwar Yasharth, ten years ago. Since then, he has helped more than 2 lakh people with free treatment and medicines.

Tragedy that sparked a mission
In 2014, Kunwar Yasharth died suddenly while travelling on the Duronto Express near Ghaziabad. The loss shook Rajesh to the core, but instead of succumbing to grief, he chose to help others. His aim: ensure that poor families could get medical care without worrying about costs.


Launching free medical camps
Rajesh began organising medical camps in underserved villages across Deoria and Ballia districts. Supported by teams of doctors, these camps offer free checkups, medicines, and even surgeries for patients who cannot afford treatment. So far, more than 5,000 cataract surgeries have been provided free of charge.

Recognition for social service
Recently, Rajesh Singh Dayal was felicitated for his remarkable contributions in education and social service at The Top 50 Indian Icon Award Show in Mumbai. Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri Ramdas Athawale, presented him with the prestigious “Vidya Vachaspati Award.”

For many in UP, Rajesh Singh Dayal has become a real-life hero, a father who turned his grief into a mission that has changed thousands of lives, proving that compassion can heal both loss and society.