
01/06/2025
A Grand Felicitation Ceremony for Robin Bolde
A grand felicitation ceremony was organized by the Medical Service Centre and Central Calcutta Gosto Pal Memorial Sporting Club in honor of Mr. Robin Bolde — a tireless warrior for the environmental movement, a proud son of a poor family from the remote village of Taldi in the Canning subdivision of the Sundarbans, former captain of the Indian water polo team, and a recently victorious and exceptionally brave swimmer who crossed the Palk Pranali, Sri Lanka.
The ceremony was graced by several eminent personalities including former captain and coach of the Bengal women’s football team Mrs. Ranjana Chatterjee, President of the Forum for Sports Persons of India Dr. Ashok Samanta, Vice President of Medical Service Centre and former Member of Parliament Dr. Tarun Mondal, Dr. Bigyan Kumar Bera, social worker Mr. Ajay Chatterjee, club president Mr. Aysanul Haque, secretary Mr. Samsul Alam, and chief coach of Central Calcutta Gosto Pal Memorial Sporting Club, Zulfiqar Ali Dada, among others.
The ceremony began with a floral welcome offered by Dr. Ashok Samanta and Mr. Ayasanul Haque. A gift was presented by Mrs. Ranjana Chatterjee, and the felicitation plaque (manpatra) was handed over by Dr. Tarun Mondal.
In his speech, Dr. Ashok Samanta said:
"From the first day I spoke to him, I realized he was moving forward with strong determination. His love for the poor people of his village was sincere, and he always ensured that local boys and girls were encouraged in sports. Such resolve will help him cross the English Channel too. I hope he returns home in good health."
Former MP Dr. Tarun Mondal added:
"I’ve known Robin since my time as an MP. Apart from sports, he has been deeply involved in various social activities. His leadership in organizing medical camps for the poor is highly commendable. We are confident he will successfully cross the English Channel as well. By doing so, he will bring pride not only to the nation but especially to the people of West Bengal."
Everyone present lauded the extraordinary struggles Robin Balde has overcome despite living in poverty, praising his perseverance and achievements.
In an emotional voice, Robin Balde said during his speech:
"I sincerely thank the Medical Service Centre and Central Calcutta Gostho Pal Memorial Sporting Club. The courage and encouragement they have given me through this felicitation is something I will never forget. I want to send a message to the people of the world through my attempt to cross the English Channel — that as our environment faces destruction, it is time for everyone to step up to protect it. Save the mangroves, protect the Sundarbans."
The entire event was coordinated and conducted by Dr. Tarun Mondal, Vice President of the Medical Service Centre and former MP