Udupi: An 82-year-old man who had been living alone for 22 years was reunited with his children.

Annayya Bangera, who had distanced himself from his family due to a conflict, had been living in solitude in Majoor, Kapu. Suffering from age-related ailments, he had recently become bedridden.

For years, Bangera relied on the food, medication, and assistance provided by locals. A month ago, his health deteriorated significantly. During this critical time, the Panchayat Development Officer intervened, and with the help of social worker Nityananda Olakadu, Bangera was admitted to the district hospital for treatment.

Following his recovery, he was discharged and rehabilitated at Hosabalu Ashram. Officials from the Senior Citizens’ Helpline gathered details from Bangera and traced his relatives. His son and daughter were contacted and arrived at the ashram to bring him back home.

Although his children immediately recognized him, Bangera, having lived in isolation for over two decades, took some time to identify them.

The reunion was facilitated by Ashwini from the Senior Citizens’ Helpline, District Project Coordinator Ashwini, Counselor Roshan Amin, Kapu Police, staff from the Health Department, and Vinayachandra, all of whom played pivotal roles in this touching resolution.