“I’ve always admired APJ Abdul Kalam for his work and personality. One fine day, I wrote an email to him, explaining the work we do at our NGO, how he’s an inspiration to many youngsters like me, and how I would love to meet him. I completely forgot about it. A few days later, I got an email from his office with an appointment scheduled. I couldn’t believe my eyes! I showed it to my whole family and was so excited for the big day. By then, we had a brochure for the NGO ready, and he graciously released it.
He also gave me a copy of his book with an autograph. It was unbelievable – standing beside him and talking to him. That special moment inspired and pushed me to continue our mission at the NGO with even greater dedication.
My journey in social service began on my birthday in 2008. I had received Rs 1500 as a gift from my family. I spent 600 rupees on a watch and decided to use the remaining amount for a good cause. I donated a stainless steel water filter to Ekashila Old Age Home. The senior citizens there hugged me, tears rolling down their cheeks, expressing their happiness. That moment, experiencing the joy of giving, propelled me to reach out to more people in need.
I shared my experience on social media, and many friends joined me in my efforts. We distributed warm clothes during the winter season. What started as a small initiative gradually led to the formation of our NGO, Sulakshya Seva Samithi, on April 11, 2013. Since then, we’ve conducted hundreds of events, inviting people from different fields who support our cause. Our objectives include education for all, healthcare, protecting the environment, empowering youth, providing basic needs, and spreading love and affection.
For over 11 years now, Sulakshya Seva Samithi has been a beacon of hope and support for the underprivileged. Our journey, inspired by Swami Vivekananda’s words, “They only live, who live for others,” has been dedicated to serving the needy in the best possible way. I was also part of the Telangana state agitation from 2009 to 2014, but it wasn’t for any political party. It was for us and for what the people needed.
When I look back at everything we’ve done, I think about my father and how happy he must be. He was a simple man, an epitome of kindness and generosity. Although we could afford a car or a bigger house, he wouldn’t spend unnecessarily. He would save and help whoever needed it. I distinctly remember the last few days I spent with him. He was diagnosed with stones in the gall bladder, but the inefficiency of the doctor in my area led to it affecting his pancreas. We took him to Hyderabad, but in vain. He left us not just with enough money to survive but also with lessons about being content with what we have and helping others.
We don’t have to do something out of this world. It’s all about little steps, like talking to the man at the mirchi bandi you eat from – asking him how he is doing and if he needs any help. You spend a few minutes eating there. What would you lose in having a conversation? Talk to people around you, make others feel happy. That’s truly the motive of my life too. I never dreamt of the luxurious city life. In fact, I’ve always wanted to settle in Warangal. My friends say I’m the true Warangalite, and I’m proud of it. I want to stay here and help people in my country. That’s what I want to do for the rest of my life.”
- Santhosh Manduva – Founder of Sulakshya Seva Samiti