The Founder, Fr. Marian
Karunalaya, Beatrix School and Children's Home, Ishopanthi Ashram Centre of Dialogue and Spirituality all have their founding from the love, dedication and energy of the saintly Fr Marian Zelazek, SVD.
Polish born Fr. Marian started his work in India from 1950 and made Puri his home in 1975 after spending five years in the Nazi concentration camp at Dachau during World War II. As a result of his experiences in the camp he learned to value and cherish all life and be compassionate to all, especially those who are suffering.
He was short listed for the Nobel Peace Prize and was given several national and international awards and recognitions for his commitment to the poor and segregated in India. His work was the cornerstone for challenging the social stigma towards the 'untouchable' Leprosy patients and their families in Puri and surrounding areas in Orissa state.
By pioneering the use of education the people are now able to break the social segregation and poverty cycle to become apart of normal society and human interaction.
Fr. Marian's dreams are now our passion as we continue the crusade to curve the effects of Leprosy both physical and mental and give the poor access to health, education, food and housing.