P.J.
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An Extraordinary Indian: Risking his life to save others
Venkatesh, all of 19 years old, has saved over a hundred lives at Chennai's Marina Beach. The school dropout puts his life in danger almost every day for the sake of others, discovers S Saraswathi.
He is a familiar sight at Chennai's popular Marina Beach, bobbing about in the strong undercurrents and high waves that are characteristic of the waters along this stretch of the coast.
He is a big help to the beach patrol officers and is said to have saved more than 100 people who were in danger of drowning.
People may risk their lives in the line of duty, or for glory or money. But rarely does someone risk his life to save others simply because it makes him happy.
The people young Venkatesh, who is all of 19 years old, saves are total strangers. He says there are no complex reasons for his unselfish actions.
"It makes me very happy," he says with a wide grin. "It was never about money and neither do I expect gratitude or praise."
"It does hurt when people do not even acknowledge you. Some just walk away. But whatever they say or do not say, it does not affect my jumping in the next time someone's life is in danger."
An Extraordinary Indian: Risking his life to save others - Rediff Getahead
Venkatesh, all of 19 years old, has saved over a hundred lives at Chennai's Marina Beach. The school dropout puts his life in danger almost every day for the sake of others, discovers S Saraswathi.
He is a familiar sight at Chennai's popular Marina Beach, bobbing about in the strong undercurrents and high waves that are characteristic of the waters along this stretch of the coast.
He is a big help to the beach patrol officers and is said to have saved more than 100 people who were in danger of drowning.
People may risk their lives in the line of duty, or for glory or money. But rarely does someone risk his life to save others simply because it makes him happy.
The people young Venkatesh, who is all of 19 years old, saves are total strangers. He says there are no complex reasons for his unselfish actions.
"It makes me very happy," he says with a wide grin. "It was never about money and neither do I expect gratitude or praise."
"It does hurt when people do not even acknowledge you. Some just walk away. But whatever they say or do not say, it does not affect my jumping in the next time someone's life is in danger."
An Extraordinary Indian: Risking his life to save others - Rediff Getahead
