“A life built on service is stronger than any structure made of stone.”
Introduction
The story of Dr. Er. Ambika Ballabha Swain is one that beautifully blends knowledge, service, and compassion. Born on 12th July 1963 in a modest village near Paradeep, Odisha, his journey reflects the power of perseverance and the grace of humility. From an early age, he learned that life’s true worth lies not in what one achieves for oneself, but in what one gives to others. Raised by parents whose values shaped his spirit, Late Purna Chandra Khuntia and Kunjalata Swain, he grew up in an environment that celebrated education, culture, and kindness. His father, a respected teacher, actor, and director, instilled in him the importance of learning and creativity, while his mother’s deep compassion for others taught him empathy and humanity.
Education became his first gateway to purpose. Studying in Bhubaneswar, he developed a keen interest in science and construction — a fascination that led him to pursue engineering. His academic journey took him to Jharsuguda Institute of Engineering, followed by higher studies at Janardan Rai Nagar Rajasthan Vidyapeeth University and an M.Tech from Karnatak State Open University. Each milestone was achieved not just with ambition, but with a quiet promise to use his skills for the welfare of others.
When Dr. Swain began his professional journey as a civil engineer in 1989, he entered the world of infrastructure with a heart devoted to development and service. His work wasn’t merely about building structures; it was about creating foundations for communities to grow. Through decades of dedicated government service, he constructed roads, public buildings, and spaces that stood as symbols of progress. His work was defined by discipline, integrity, and a strong sense of responsibility — qualities that earned him respect among peers and subordinates alike.
However, what makes Dr. Er. Ambika Ballabha Swain’s story extraordinary is not just his technical brilliance but the humanity that runs through every chapter of his life. After over three decades of service, he retired in July 2023 as a Senior Engineer, but his commitment to humanity continued with greater purpose. Since 2010, he has been an active member of the Rotary Club, where his leadership has touched countless lives. Whether it was organizing health camps, blood donation drives, or supporting cancer and dialysis patients, he became a pillar of compassion in his community. During the difficult times of the COVID-19 pandemic, he extended help to the most vulnerable — distributing food, blankets, and essentials to the underprivileged, reflecting his deep sense of empathy and social responsibility.
Beyond his engineering and humanitarian work, Dr. Swain’s passion for culture and art has been an integral part of his identity. Following his father’s footsteps, he flourished as an actor, stage director, and cultural leader. His performances in more than 50 stage plays, 3 television serials, and a feature film not only showcased his talent but also his belief that art has the power to uplift society. Through drama and cultural activities, he spread messages of harmony, discipline, and moral strength.
On the personal front, he has found unwavering support in his family. His wife, Jayashree Swain, a graduate and businesswoman involved in prawn culture, has been his constant companion, balancing his professional commitments and humanitarian work with grace. His son, a civil engineer and entrepreneur, carries forward his father’s legacy of technical excellence, while his daughter, Dr. Sonam Swain, serves in the medical field with compassion and care. Together, they reflect a family deeply rooted in education, service, and moral values.
“The roots of greatness lie in the soil of humility, where simplicity nurtures strength and compassion becomes destiny.”
PHASE 1: Humble Beginnings in the Heart of Odisha
In the gentle rhythm of rural Odisha, where the earth breathes through fields and rivers, the story of Dr. Er. Ambika Ballabha Swain begins. Born on 12th July 1963 in a modest village near Paradeep, he entered a world that was rich not in material wealth, but in values, culture, and human warmth. His early life, surrounded by the simplicity of village living, taught him lessons that would later shape his character — resilience, kindness, and gratitude.
His father, Late Purna Chandra Khuntia, was more than just a high school teacher; he was an artist of life. Known across the region as an actor and drama director, he brought education and art together in a unique way. His students remembered him not just for his teaching but for the stories he told — stories filled with wisdom, humor, and morality. For young Ambika, watching his father perform on stage or guide his students was an education in itself. It showed him that life’s true purpose is not confined to personal achievement, but extends to inspiring and uplifting others.
His mother, Kunjalata Swain, complemented this household of intellect and art with her grace and compassion. A homemaker and social worker, she was the silent strength of the family — the heart that kept everyone grounded. Her kindness extended beyond her home; she often helped neighbors in need, shared meals with the less fortunate, and comforted anyone who sought her help. For Ambika, his mother was the first embodiment of empathy, teaching him through her actions that helping others is not a duty but a way of life.
Growing up in this environment, Ambika developed a natural sense of balance between intellect and emotion. The rustic surroundings of his childhood offered him more than scenic beauty; they instilled in him a sense of belonging and purpose. He spent his early days exploring the village fields, watching the play of nature, and observing how people lived in harmony despite hardships. His childhood friends still recall how he was always thoughtful — quiet yet observant, curious yet humble.
“Dreams become reality when purpose meets perseverance, and every small step forward is taken with faith and humility.”
PHASE 2: The Path of Learning and Determination
The journey of Dr. Er. Ambika Ballabha Swain from a small village near Paradeep, Odisha to becoming an accomplished engineer and social reformer was not a sudden leap of fate but a steady climb carved through years of learning, dedication, and quiet persistence. The foundations of humility, compassion, and moral strength laid in his childhood soon found direction as he stepped into the world of education, eager to shape his dreams and discover his purpose.
From the early days of his schooling in Bhubaneswar, Ambika had shown a sense of focus that set him apart from his peers. While other children often saw studies as a task, he viewed them as a window to opportunities — a path that could change not just his own life but that of others around him. His teachers often praised his attentiveness and his genuine curiosity to understand how things worked. It was not unusual to find him dismantling small gadgets or sketching the shape of a bridge he had seen on a poster, trying to imagine how it stood firm. These small curiosities were hints of what would later become his life’s work in the field of civil engineering.
In school, Ambika was a quiet yet observant learner. He listened more than he spoke, but his mind was always alive with ideas. He respected his teachers deeply and never shied away from helping classmates who found lessons difficult. Many of them would later recall how he patiently explained mathematical problems or guided them through science assignments, never boasting about his own understanding. This ability to teach and share knowledge would stay with him throughout his life — in classrooms, in workplaces, and later, in his social initiatives.
His father, Late Purna Chandra Khuntia, remained his moral compass during those formative years. As a teacher and dramatist, he often spoke about the importance of self-discipline and service to others. He would tell his son, “Education is a lamp; its light should fall beyond your own doorstep.” These words stayed etched in Ambika’s heart. He began to see his studies not merely as a personal pursuit but as a responsibility — a way to become capable enough to help others rise.
“When knowledge finds purpose and work finds heart, ordinary professions become extraordinary paths of service.”
PHASE 3: Building the Foundation of a Lifelong Mission
The transition from a determined student to a committed professional marked a defining chapter in the life of Dr. Er. Ambika Ballabha Swain. After years of rigorous academic pursuit at Jharsuguda Institute of Engineering, Janardan Rai Nagar Rajasthan Vidyapeeth University, and later at Karnatak State Open University, where he completed his M.Tech, he was now ready to step into the world of responsibility and contribution. His education had not only equipped him with technical brilliance but had also nurtured in him a sense of purpose — to use his knowledge for building lives, not just structures.
In 1989, Ambika began his professional journey as a civil engineer in government service. For a young man from a small village near Paradeep, Odisha, this was not just an achievement; it was a realization of a lifelong dream. The moment he received his appointment letter, he thought of his father, Late Purna Chandra Khuntia, whose teachings had guided him through every phase of life. His father had once told him, “Whatever you build in life, let it have a soul of service.” Those words now echoed in his heart as he began his first day as a government engineer.
The early years of his career were filled with learning and challenges. Ambika was posted in regions where resources were limited, but the needs of the people were immense. The infrastructure in those areas was underdeveloped, and every road, bridge, or building carried stories of struggle and hope. He was determined to ensure that his work made a real difference. He saw engineering not as a technical profession but as a service to society — a way to connect communities, improve lives, and bring progress to the grassroots.
His dedication quickly became evident to his seniors and colleagues. He was known for his meticulous approach to planning and his sincerity in execution. Whether it was supervising a construction site under the scorching Odisha sun or spending long nights finalizing blueprints, Ambika gave his best with quiet determination.
Note of Thanks
With a heart full of humility and appreciation, Dr. Er. Ambika Ballabha Swain expresses his deepest gratitude to everyone who has walked beside him on this extraordinary journey of life. Every achievement, every milestone, and every act of service has been shaped by the support, guidance, and love he has received from countless individuals along the way.
He extends his heartfelt thanks to his parents, Late Purna Chandra Khuntia and Kunjalata Swain, whose wisdom and compassion laid the foundation of his character. Their values of honesty, humility, and service continue to guide him in every endeavor. He is equally grateful to his beloved wife, whose unwavering patience, strength, and encouragement have been the pillars of his success. Her quiet sacrifices and unconditional love have been his greatest source of strength.
To his children — his son, a civil engineer and entrepreneur, and his daughter, Dr. Sonom Swain, a dedicated medical professional — he offers boundless love and pride. Their sincerity and compassion reflect the values he holds dear, and their success gives meaning to his life’s work.
He also conveys his heartfelt appreciation to his Rotary family, colleagues, friends, and all those who have joined him in his mission to serve humanity. Their shared spirit of kindness and unity has made every project a step toward a better world.
In every phase of his journey, Dr. Swain has believed that gratitude is not expressed in words alone but in actions. Through this note, he honors every hand that has supported him and every heart that has believed in him — for together, they have built a legacy of compassion and purpose that will live on beyond time.
Thanks
Dr. Er. Ambika Ballabha Swain