𝐑𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐨𝐩𝐞: 𝐏𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐚 𝐁𝐝𝐫 𝐓𝐢𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐢’𝐬 𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

By Tenzin Euden

Purna Bdr Tiwari, a 52-year-old from Rejung, Sarpang, currently employed as a Security Guard at Damchen Petroleum in Phuntsholing, shares the harrowing tale of his life marred by alcohol addiction.
His descent into alcoholism began amid marital strife with his former wife, leading him down a path of spiraling dependence. Despite being a father of four and embroiled in legal battles with his spouse for a year, Purna found solace in alcohol, a habit that swiftly grew beyond his control. Throughout his tumultuous journey, Purna sought employment in various places like Gelephu, Lobesa, and Khuruthang, each time hoping to turn his fortunes around. However, plagued by the relentless grip of addiction, any earnings he amassed were quickly squandered on alcohol, perpetuating the vicious cycle of self-destruction. Even after legally parting ways with his former wife, Purna’s heartache persisted as he yearned to reconnect with his beloved children. Despite his best intentions, a planned reunion in Phuntsholing turned into another episode of despair.

After reserving a taxi at great expense (Nu.700) to facilitate the long-awaited meeting, Purna’s demons resurfaced, leading him to drown his sorrows in alcohol once more. He slept at Zangtopelri, and waking up the next day in a haze, Purna was met with the grim reality of his predicament – robbed of not only his possessions but also his dignity. The loss of his important documents and a substantial sum of money (Nu.20,000) only added to the weight of his despair, serving as a stark reminder of the toll his addiction had taken on his life.

After losing everything, he went to the police to report the incident. However, due to his inebriated state and lack of concrete evidence, the authorities didn’t believe him. He was left confused and shocked by their dismissal. Seeking refuge, he ventured to Phuntsholing town, where he hoped to find solace with his brother, a Driver at Pasakha. Due to his dismay, his brother coldly rejected him, declaring him dead to the family and even subjecting him to abuse. Lost and penniless, he resorted to begging for sustenance, feeling as aimless as a stray dog.

One fateful day, he encountered a man named Ugyen. Intrigued by his tale of woe, Ugyen offered him a chance at a fresh start. He proposed accompanying him to a center where he could receive the support and resources needed to rebuild his life.

“At first, I refused to go with him and instead went to drink alcohol at a bar,” Purna emphasizes, recalling his initial resistance. “Upon my realization, I was so addicted that alcohol made my life miserable.” At the bar, he met with Ugyen’s center staff, who tried to convince him to join the center and start anew. Eventually, he was convinced, and upon reaching the center, he felt differently. He was provided with new clothes and healthcare, which helped him become properly dressed and more presentable. “My only regret is that, as an addict, I couldn’t be of any help to my four kids,” said Purna. He mentioned that at the center, he spends most of his time working in the kitchen and doing yoga in his leisure to keep his mind and body healthy.

Purna described his experience at the center as hellish for the first 15 days, struggling to adjust and even requiring multiple hospital visits due to his inability to eat. During his time at the center, almost 35 people came seeking sobriety. He expressed gratitude towards a caregiver who provided essential support, particularly in bathing and overall care, emphasizing the lasting impact of the assistance.

After his time at the center, Purna managed to maintain his sobriety and underwent necessary treatment with sincerity. He mentioned Ugyen sir advising him to contact family members for discussions, though he could only recall his brother’s number (Pasakha Driver), who visited him once. He also shared that his four children visited him during his stay. Additionally, he remarried, his new wife hailing from Tsirang, and they were blessed with a three-month-old baby. This new chapter in his life brought about a positive change, making him more responsible and financially supportive towards his family. Purna expressed gratitude for meeting his wife, stating that his life restarted with her and is now going well.

“The primary reason for my alcohol addiction stemmed from my former wife’s infidelity,” Purna highlighted, delving into the root cause of his struggles. “Prior to the betrayal, our relationship was happy, and I worked diligently.” However, upon discovering his wife’s affair, he was shattered and bewildered. The ensuing pressure led to numerous conflicts and even physical violence, resulting in his imprisonment. Despite his efforts to comprehend the situation, he turned to alcohol as a source of solace and peace for his troubled mind, ultimately leading to an uncontrollable addiction.

Purna now earns a monthly salary of Nu.9000 and views the Happiness Center as a sanctuary, where he can trust and pray for betterment. Reflecting on his journey, he expressed gratitude for the center’s support during his most vulnerable times. As a father of five, he feels self-sufficient and content with his own efforts. Remarkably, those who once disregarded and judged him, including his neighbors, family, and relatives, now appreciate his transformation and sobriety. Despite his sufficient income, he engages in part-time work like loading and unloading, leveraging his healthy body’s capabilities. He acknowledges the unpredictability of the future but remains optimistic about the opportunities it may hold.

“I am a recovering addict and still in the recovery stage,” Purna expressed, acknowledging the ongoing nature of his journey. “As we all know, addiction is a disease, and relapse can occur unexpectedly. I am doing my best to avoid any relapse, and I am doing fine right now.” He emphasized the importance of compassion and support for addicts, advocating for understanding and assistance rather than judgment and harsh treatment.

Purna’s story serves as a moving reminder of the destructive power of addiction and the devastating impact it can have on individuals and their loved ones. Despite his trials, there remains hope for redemption and recovery, a journey that begins with acknowledging the need for help and support.