“Every life matters. Sometimes, just being there to listen can save someone.

I’ve been following my dad’s footsteps as a lifeguard at Hussain Sagar for almost seven years now, even while studying. He’s been doing this for over 20 years, and people around here call him ‘Tank Bund Shiva.’

Growing up near the lake, I saw how important his work is. It’s not just about pulling people out of the water, it’s about stopping them before things get worse. I remember once, a man was clearly in trouble. Instead of rushing in, my dad talked to him, calmed him down, gave him some money, and convinced him that things could improve. That showed me how much just listening can help.

But it’s not always that simple. Sometimes people go into the water despite everything. Then it becomes a race against time. You face rough water and panicked people, and in those moments, you don’t think about yourself. You just focus on helping them.

There are hard days too — days when it’s too late, and we have to recover bodies. You never forget those moments. Even after all these years, my dad says it never gets easier. But we do it for the families. They need closure.

Most people who come here aren’t trying to give up. They’re looking for a way out of pain. My dad always says, ‘No problem is big enough to end your life over.’ That’s what I try to remind people when I’m out there. Sometimes, just knowing someone cares can make all the difference.

When I’m not at the lake, I play cricket with my friends to clear my head. I’m also doing a part-time job, saving up to build my own house — something solid to look forward to.

Even on the toughest days, when many don’t understand our purpose, I know this work matters. That’s what keeps me going.”

— Venu Madhav, Lifeguard at Hussain Sagar Lake, Hyderabad