In the tranquil village of Thattekad, Kannur, an inspiring figure stands out amidst the serene landscape. Janaki Amma, an elderly woman, defies conventional expectations by gracefully diving into a pond while dressed in a ‘maxi’ – a sight that leaves villagers in awe. Her skill and enthusiasm in the water are nothing short of remarkable, but it’s not just her abilities that make her unique; it’s her dedication to teaching swimming to hundreds of children and women every day, entirely free of charge.
At 63 years old, Janaki Amma has become a beacon of hope and an inspiration in her community. Her motivation for this selfless mission is rooted in a pressing issue – the alarming number of drowning deaths that have plagued Kerala. The state has witnessed a distressing pattern of boat accidents and children losing their lives to drowning.
“Every day, we see reports of boat accidents and children drowning to death. That’s why I started this,” she shares with a heavy heart. The statistics are harrowing, with a report in The Hindu revealing that drowning claimed 6,710 lives in Kerala from 2016 to 2021.
What makes her efforts even more commendable is her determination to shatter the myth that one cannot learn to swim after a certain age. She imparts her wisdom to women of various age groups, who eagerly complete their daily chores and attend her classes to learn how to swim.
Janaki Amma’s family supports her noble cause, and she intends to continue her mission for as long as she is physically able. She recognizes that life’s twists and turns are unpredictable, but her commitment to saving lives through this essential life skill remains unwavering.
In the heart of Thattekad, Janaki Amma not only teaches swimming but also teaches us about the power of compassion, dedication, and the difference one person can make in their community. Her legacy as the swimming guru of Thattekad is a testament to the profound impact that one individual’s determination can have on an entire village.
For a detailed story, please visit: The Better India.com
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