Our new Rotary friend Sanju Choudhury entertained us with a saga of his journey to Rotary service. The journey began in northeast India and was quickly filled with tragedy as his father passed away when Sanju was only 6 months old. His mother was devastated but somehow managed to get a job and provide a Catholic-school education for her three children. Complicating matters were the constant fights between tribal and non- tribal forces. In 1988, Sanju managed to slip away during curfew and managed to reach New Delhi with the equivalent of $3 in his pocket. An old-fashioned telephone directory helped him find a friend in that mass of humanity. The friend provided shelter and Sanju was safe for the moment.
At the time, he already had the belief, the vision, the determination, and the passion to one day come to America. There was great temptation to make some money through nefarious means, but Sanju was resolved to never risk his relationship with the Almighty. The challenges we face in the world make up the story of our lives. As a young man, Sanju was aware of Rotarians and considered them to be impressive people. An out- of-town wedding led to a serendipitous meeting on a train with a visiting American student named Renee. A long-distance courtship ensued followed by a wedding in 1996. The couple had a 3-month sojourn in the United States which has now lasted nearly 30 years.
Settling in Idaho, Sanju started and operated several businesses. In 2008, it was suggested that he become a Rotarian. His time in Rotary helped him to become a good human being. In 2015, a return visit to his hometown opened his eyes to the needs of that community. He dedicated himself to establishing an orphanage and hospital in that area. He still supports both of those entities. The power of Rotary helped him accomplish that goal which serves approximately 7,000 people. His newest project is to provide beds for St. Aloysius Hospital in association with the Orchid Rotary Club Shillong. Sanju likes the fellowship of Rotary, but the really great thing is how it gives us the ability to help someone. And that is what it is all about.