Director (Operations) RINL Inaugurates Sri Sathya Sai Chalivendram at Ukkunagaram, Marks 36 Years of Selfless Service
The inauguration ceremony, held amid auspicious Vedic chanting, marked the commencement of the two-month-long Chalivendram initiative
Dr. Salim G. Purushothaman, Director (Operations), Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL), inaugurated the Sri Sathya Sai Chalivendram at Ukkunagaram Steel Township near the Visakha Steel General Hospital bus stop, appreciating the Ukkunagaram Sri Sathya Sai Seva Samithi for its unwavering commitment to selfless service.
The inauguration ceremony, held amid auspicious Vedic chanting, marked the commencement of the two-month-long Chalivendram initiative, which has been a cornerstone of community service for over 36 years. The initiative provides cool drinking water and fresh buttermilk to the public during the peak summer months.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Purushothaman described the Chalivendram as a powerful expression of love, compassion, devotion, and selfless service, reflecting the teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. He lauded the Samithi for its sustained efforts, noting that such long-standing service demonstrates that the organisation is truly integrated with society.
He also encouraged the Samithi to expand such service initiatives to reach a wider section of the public.
A distinctive aspect of the Chalivendram is the active participation of entire families, fostering the spirit of Seva across generations. Hundreds of commuters benefit daily, with APSRTC and private bus drivers voluntarily halting at the site to allow passengers to refresh themselves. Volunteers also distribute buttermilk bottles to drivers, ensuring their well-being during extreme heat conditions.
The Chalivendram continues to stand as a symbol of “love in action,” promoting unity, compassion, and community service.
Prominent attendees included PRSN Naidu, District President of Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations (Vizag District); DAV Sanyasiraju, Convener of Ukkunagaram Sri Sathya Sai Seva Samithi; R.A. Naidu, District Service Wing Coordinator (Gents); B. Saikumar, Convener of City Seva Samithi; SKRK Raju, Joint Convener; G. Ramakrishna, Ex-Convener; M. Vishnumurthy, Service Wing Coordinator; and R.V. Rao, Former Executive Director (HR), Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, along with several office bearers, Sai youth, members of the Women’s Wing, and devotees.
