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Writer's pictureAbhishek Srivastava

You don't have to be rich to do good

Updated: Jun 25, 2023


You don't have to be rich to do good

You don't need to be rich or hold a prestigious title to create lasting change in society. In the midst of a world often dazzled by wealth and fame, there are individuals who embody the true essence of selflessness and dedication. Let me introduce you to two extraordinary souls who have captured the hearts of a nation and become beacons of inspiration.

The woman in the picture is none other than Tulsi Gowda, a remarkable recipient of the esteemed Padma Shri Award in 2021. Hailing from the humble villages of Karnataka, Tulsi Gowda has earned the title of a goddess for her remarkable contributions to environmental protection. At the age of 77, this awe-inspiring woman has single-handedly planted over 30,000 saplings, bringing life and greenery to barren lands. What makes her story even more remarkable is that she lacks any formal degree and struggles to afford even basic necessities like decent clothing and footwear. Undeterred by her circumstances, Tulsi Gowda walks barefoot to receive her well-deserved awards, captivating the nation's attention and capturing their hearts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah themselves welcomed her, recognizing her incredible efforts. Her humility and simplicity have resonated with millions of young minds, as her photo went viral on social media. Tulsi Gowda stands as a shining example that recognition and impact can be achieved through quiet, persistent acts of kindness and dedication. She is just one of many unsung heroes who deserve to be acknowledged and celebrated for their silent contributions.


You don't have to be rich to do good

Continuing our journey, we encounter another remarkable individual whose story is equally captivating. Meet Harekala Hajabba, a Padma Shri recipient who has made waves in the media and touched the hearts of countless people. Despite being a simple fruit seller, Harekala Hajabba saved every penny he could to fulfill his lifelong dream of building a school in his village. This man, donning a traditional dhoti kurta and going barefoot, accepted his Padma Shri award with utmost grace. Hailing from a small village in Mangalore, Karnataka, Harekala Hajabba is lovingly referred to as the "saint of letters." His dedication and unwavering commitment to education have transformed the lives of countless children who would have otherwise been deprived of learning opportunities. Harekala Hajabba's story is a testament to the fact that one's socioeconomic status should never hinder their pursuit of making a positive impact. Despite his own lack of financial means, he selflessly invested in the education of his community, leaving an indelible mark on the lives he has touched.

In a world that often glorifies wealth and power, these extraordinary individuals serve as living reminders that greatness knows no bounds. Their stories teach us that it is the size of our hearts and the depth of our compassion that truly matters. They inspire us to break free from the chains of societal expectations and embrace the power within ourselves to make a difference. For every Tulsi Gowda and Harekala Hajabba, there are countless others silently working towards a better world. Their stories need to be recognized, celebrated, and shared, for they are the true heroes who shape the destiny of our society.

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