“People at Hussain Sagar know me as Tank Bund Shiva. For the past 25 years, this lake has been my workplace and my responsibility.

I spent part of my early childhood in an orphanage. One day, while walking to school, there was heavy rush and confusion during a religious procession. In that chaos, I got separated and lost my way. I eventually reached Chaderghat. From then on, I grew up on the streets.

Life taught me survival early. I collected plastic and scrap to earn a few rupees. Some days I ate. Some days I slept hungry. During that time, I met Mahendra bhayya. I consider him my god gifted brother. We were not related by blood, but we grew up together, shared food, shared struggles, and looked out for each other. I called his mother amma, and she treated me as her own.

One day, a small child slipped into a lake. Mahendra knew how to swim and jumped in immediately to help. Sadly, things did not go as we hoped. I still remember amma’s grief. I told her she would never be alone and that I would always stand by her. From that day, I decided I would train myself properly and never remain helpless when someone needed support in the water.

That decision brought me to Hussain Sagar. For over two decades, I have stood by this lake. I have helped bring more than 130 people safely out of the water and assisted the police in many recovery operations, helping families find closure. It is not easy work, but when someone returns home safely, I know it matters.

Being a lifeguard is not only about swimming. It is about observing people. Many who walk towards the edge are carrying silent struggles. Sometimes a simple conversation makes a difference.

In January 2021, Sonu Sood sir visited Tank Bund and supported my work by launching a free ambulance service, strengthening our emergency response.

My wife has always stood by me all throughout. Today, my son Venu Madhav works here as a lifeguard while continuing his higher education.

From a boy who once struggled on the streets to a man who now guards this lake, my journey has been shaped by responsibility and purpose. As long as I stand at Tank Bund, I will continue to watch the water.

Because every life matters.”