Pauper turns philanthropist!

Tandur: Pauper-turned philanthropist Budaga Jangam Ramesh of Chengol village has been helping orphans in surrounding areas with his earnings. “That gives me happiness and satisfaction. Their well-being is my life”, Ramesh says with twinkle in his eyes while serving food to them. 

His life story is inspiring, like any other Bollywood biopic. At the age of 10 Ramesh lost his parents. After being neglected by relatives he turned a beggar for survival. As a vagabond he moved to Mumbai, where too he was forced to seek alms. Moved by his plight, Akbar, a fruit vendor, offered Ramesh shelter and also work, when he was 15 year-old. Hard work and dedication enabled him to take a fruitful path. Since then the youngster has not looked back.

Within a short period, Ramesh launched his own business and employed four persons. His monthly income is between Rs 40,000 and Rs 50,000. He owns three houses, two in Mumbai and one in Chengol. He told The Hans India: “I never forget the starving woes and sleepless nights of my childhood. I know how difficult it is to face such worst days. At the same time, I know the cruelty of hunger which makes one’s life miserable”, he says, while holding back tears.

Ramesh said he has been spending five per cent from his income for the welfare of orphans. Inmates of an orphanage here felt happy whenever he meets them. “For the ensuing Diwali, I want to see hopes in their eyes by distributing clothes”, he says looking at the children having food. Ramesh wants to provide good education to them for their better future. Residents of the village fondly hope that his wish will be realised.