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 Rajaram
Sridhar, the founder trustee of Maitri Educational and
Charitable Trust, is clearly an inspiration to all the
physically-challenged who are intimidated by the odds.
Crippled by polio in 1947, when he was 18 months young,
Sridhar had more than his disability to contend with. In
the days of his childhood, the 'handicapped' had nothing to
look forward to. Without the benefit of formal education,
the short-wave radio turned out to be his greatest teacher.
He learnt the nuances of the English language by listening
to programmes from BBC. He also learnt German and even
mastered the ancient science of astrology. With his
wheelchair, this social worker has covered more than 20,000
kms!
 The
Uttarkasi earthquake prompted Sridhar to channel available
resources and deliver it at Uttarkasi, to bring succour to
the victims. His friends went to schools, colleges and
door-to-door, soliciting donations, both in cash and kind,
for the relief effort. The collection reached such
proportions that Sridhar had to move out of his room to
make space for it.
Maitri, started by him in 1991, has a network of volunteers
who intervene to prevent families from breaking up, provide
sponsorship to educate disadvantaged children, help in
disaster-affected areas and organise medical camps. This
NGO also aims at reaffirming the fact that people like
Sridhar are not looking for the sympathy of the so-called
'normal' people. His plan for the future is to establish an
orphanage with opportunities given to the orphans to excel
in whatever activity they show aptitude and interest in.
Address: Maitri, 17/2, Nathamuni Street, T.Nagar, Chennai
600 017.
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