Name: Ashok Deshmane
Profession: IT Engineer, Founder
Location: koyali Phata, Pune
Some life stories remind us that true success is not measured by salary packages or job titles, but by the impact we create in the lives of others. The journey of Ashok Deshmane, an IT engineer who chose compassion over comfort, is one such powerful example. His transformation from a corporate professional to the founder of Snehwan, a home for children of farmers affected by drought and suicide, continues to inspire thousands across India.
1. Journey — Early Life and Career Beginnings
Ashok grew up in a rural part of Mangrul in the Parbhani district of Maharashtra, where he witnessed the struggles of farmers from a young age. Because of everyday struggles, his parents thought about taking their lives as well. As it was hard to survive only on farming, his father started tailoring too. Despite the hardships around him, he focused on education and eventually built a successful career in the IT industry. Like many young professionals, he moved to the city, secured a stable job, and stepped into a comfortable lifestyle. But even as he progressed in his career, the memories of his village and the pain of the farming community stayed with him.
A Turning Point: The Farmer Crisis
During one of his visits back home, Ashok saw the harsh reality of drought, crop failure, and rising farmer suicides. What affected him most was the condition of the children left behind — many of them forced to drop out of school, work as labourers, or live without proper care.
This emotional experience became a turning point. Ashok realised that while he couldn’t solve every problem, he could at least change the lives of a few children. That thought planted the seed for Snehwan.
2. Success Story — The Birth of Snehwan
In 2015, Ashok made a bold decision: he left his well‑paying IT job and returned to his village to start Snehavan, a home that provides shelter, education, and emotional support to children of distressed farmers.
He began with just a few children and very limited resources. There were days when he struggled for funds, food, and basic supplies. But Ashok’s determination never wavered. Slowly, people noticed his work and came forward to support him. Today, Snehavan is home to 17 kids in the age group of 9-14 years. These kids have never gone to school before. Now, they can read, write, and use computers.
Today, Snehavan has grown into a safe, nurturing space where children receive:
- Free education
- Nutritious meals
- Emotional counselling
- Skill development
- A family-like environment
3. Impact That Inspires
Over the years, Snehavan has supported hundreds of children who once had no hope for the future. Many of them are now pursuing higher education, preparing for competitive exams, or building careers of their own.
Ashok’s work has also brought attention to the mental health and financial struggles of farmers, encouraging more people to support rural communities.
4. Philosophy — What Makes Ashok’s Journey Truly Inspirational
Ashok’s story stands out because:
- He chose service over comfort
- He turned personal empathy into meaningful action
- He built a movement from scratch
- He proved that one person can create real change
His journey reminds us that compassion is a powerful force — one that can transform not just individual lives, but entire communities.
5. Recognition by Noblestory India
Ashok Deshmane’s transition from an IT engineer to the founder of Snehwan is a reminder that purpose often lies beyond our comfort zones. His work continues to inspire young professionals, social workers, and anyone who dreams of making a difference.
In a world driven by competition, his story teaches us the value of kindness, courage, and commitment to humanity. Noblestory salutes his passion and dedication!