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For those who have no one, there's Vidyakar

August 14, 2006
India@60 celebrates the spirit of freedom with a year-long series on India's real heroes.

This week: Vidyakar, whose Udavum Karangal has provided hope to hundreds of orphans and homeless people.

If you know other Indians who have made a difference to our country by their selfless actions, please e-mail India@60

It was past 11 pm. Braving the rain, through the dimly lit road, a young mother of 26 and her three-year-old daughter walked tentatively towards a building. A passer-by had told her that the building she was seeking was on the right.

From the time the woman had fled her home and abusive husband in Chengalpet with her daughter, there were only two names in her mind -- Udavum Karangal and Vidyakar.

She felt only he could rescue her. Wipe away her tears and fears.

When he asked her questions, all she could do was silently cry. Finally, she managed to utter the words: "Please don't send me and my daughter away. We have no other place to go."

Those who have no other place to go, think of only one place -- Udavum Karangal. Those who do not have anybody else in the world, think of only one man -- Vidyakar.

Text: Shobha Warrier
Photographs: Sriram Selvaraj

Also see: India, 56

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