Santa Claus is usually associated with gifts and cheer during Christmas. However, at Medak Cathedral, Santa arrived this Christmas with a deeper purpose — spreading awareness about the dangers of drugs, tobacco and alcohol among the youth.
The man behind the red costume was Rachakonda Prabhakar, a Telugu teacher from ZPHS Gorantla in Suryapet district. On Christmas Day, he dressed as Santa and addressed devotees who gathered at the historic church to offer prayers, urging them to shun harmful habits and choose a healthier path in life.
Personal loss inspires public campaign
Prabhakar’s campaign is rooted in personal tragedy. He lost his close friend to throat cancer after years of smoking addiction. Deeply affected by the loss, the teacher resolved to prevent others from suffering a similar fate.
A postgraduate from Osmania University, Prabhakar uses his free time to visit crowded places such as markets, jatharas, public meeting spots and religious gatherings. Armed with a loudspeaker and pamphlets, he delivers simple yet impactful messages on the ill-effects of drugs, tobacco and liquor.
Reaching youth across Telangana
Speaking to the media, Prabhakar expressed concern that ganja has penetrated even the remotest rural areas of Telangana. He urged youngsters to set clear goals early in life and work relentlessly towards them. “Only then can you truly give something meaningful back to your parents,” he said.
His commitment goes beyond speeches. As part of his anti-drugs mission, Prabhakar undertook a cycle yatra covering 10 districts of Telangana, reaching thousands of people with his message of awareness and self-discipline.
Police appreciation and public response
Impressed by his initiative, Medak Superintendent of Police DV Srinivas Rao and other police officials interacted with Prabhakar at the cathedral premises and posed for photographs with him. Appreciating the teacher’s dedication, the SP called upon the youth to follow Prabhakar’s advice to achieve success in life.
By blending the festive spirit of Christmas with a strong social message, Prabhakar became a special attraction at Medak Cathedral this year. His effort stands as a reminder that social change often begins with individual conviction and compassion.