Noida: At a young age, Ujjwal Negi got into bad company and fell into drug addiction. The depressing circumstances led him to attempt suicide twice. However, today his life has completely transformed. Presently, he enjoys his new life and runs a rehabilitation centre in Noida with an aim to help others. 

Who is Ujjwal Negi?

Ujjwal Negi is a 23-year-old man from Uttarakhand. At the age of 3, his father was paralyzed in an accident, leaving his mother as the sole breadwinner of the family. His mother’s focus shifted towards caring for his father and managing the household responsibilities. The lack of family’s attention led him to find connections elsewhere. The bad company his friends had a negative influence on him. 

Influence from films

Ujjwal Negi admits that like other young people, he was heavily influenced by Bollywood movies, that portray characters who turn to drug addiction after disappointments in their lives. Ujjwal shares that many youths frequently discuss about actors and actresses but fail to realize that the movies are only for entertainment. 

Journey of recovery

Ujjwal recounts his life as a drug addict. It started with smoking, and then he experimented with more addictive drugs. His addiction was so severe that he lost control and attempted suicide twice. Eventually, his family sent him to a rehabilitation centre when he was 17. After undergoing 6 to 7 months of treatment, he resumed living a new and normal life. 

Education

After receiving the treatment, Ujjwal successfully completed his class 12 board exams. He then earned a bachelor’s degree in social work. Recently, he appeared for his final exams for MSW. His second chance at life helped him recognize the life-threatening consequences of drug addiction. He gained practical experience by working with rehabilitation centres with an aim of opening his own centre. In 2022, he achieved his dream and established a rehabilitation centre in Noida. 

Leading a better life

Ujjwal’s mother feels proud of her son today. She acknowledges the challenges he faced during addiction, rehabilitation, and recovery. Her eyes swell up with tears while talking about his journey. Ujjwal’s present life has made him a responsible man who strives to be of help to others.