Kumar’s Journey from Rooftops to Responsibility and Respect with OSCAR

July 2025

Among the tin roof tops and narrow alleys of the Cuffe Parade community in Mumbai, Kumar was well known, for all the wrong reasons. With no one watching over him, Kumar roamed free. He darted across rooftops, cut down flying kites and picked pockets of unsuspecting passers-by. He was fearless and feared. Mothers told their children to stay away. Neighbours scolded his mother for the damage he did to their roof tops.

Kumar’s parents worked at the neighbouring Sassoon Dock fish market, earning just enough to survive. There was very little money left to pay rent and bills. It was clear Kumar was on a destructive path. Things had to change. 

Ashok Rathod, founder of the OSCAR Foundation, stepped in. He urged Kumar to join school. Kumar did enrol but had no intention of going. Every morning he put on his uniform and vanished into the lanes. He had no interest in classrooms, there were rooftops to conquer and pockets to pick.

Everything changed aged twelve. The sight of a plastic bottle being kicked around by a group of kids drew him into joining a ‘football’ game on the dusty field. The simple act of chasing a bottle like it was the World Cup planted the seed for change.

The OSCAR Foundation reappeared in Kumar’s life, this time with football, life skills, mentorship and opportunity.  The moment his barefoot kicked a real ball, something clicked. Football wasn’t just a game, it was fun, a discipline, the chance to be part of a team. Slowly, Kumar began to change. He turned up to practices, started attending school and earning respect from his friends and the coaches. Football had lit a spark in him and OSCAR kept it burning.

What started as chaos turned into potential. Kumar found joy in football skills, teamwork and self-respect.

It is 15 years since Kumar joined OSCAR. He is now a senior member of the OSCAR staff, manager of the Lakshya Football Academy, Manager of the Volunteer Programme, a C -license coach and travelled overseas managing teams at the Donosti Cup in Spain, Gothia Cup in Sweden and worked closely with Lucinda Sowerbutts on the OSCAR UK School Tour. Kumar’s life experiences and commitment inform how he manages his work. He understands the challenges faced by OSCAR girls and boys and has become a mentor figure guiding them to reach their full potential.  

“When I was young, I made many mistakes. Those experiences made me who I am today. I am not proud of everything I did, but I am proud of who I have become. OSCAR showed me the right path when I needed it most and they never gave up on me. I am thankful to OSCAR. I hope they are proud of me too.” Kumar Rathod

Kumar’s dedication and impact on the Foundation is truly inspirational.