In the heart of Dakshina Kannada district, Mangaluru, resides Purushottama Mooduru, a remarkable individual who embodies the spirit of Mahatma Gandhi. Through his establishment of the Bapuji Self-Help Group and the Mahatma Gandhi Vidyapeetha, Mooduru has transformed the lives of countless rural residents in Panja. Known affectionately as “Gandhi” by the students he mentors, he has dedicated his life to the betterment of his community, living out Gandhian principles in every endeavour.
Born into an agricultural family, Purushottama pursued a law degree, but his true calling lay in uplifting the rural populace. Embracing Gandhi’s ideals, he set out on a mission to promote literacy among the villagers. With the unwavering support of his wife, a dedicated teacher, he has successfully spread the message of Gandhian philosophy throughout the region.
In 1998, he united individuals from different areas and established over 15 self-help groups, promoting the importance of savings and financial awareness. Today, these groups consist of 10 members each, all engaged in various social service initiatives aimed at enhancing community welfare.
Understanding the significance of education, Purushottama initiated competitive exam training for underprivileged students in 1998. Originally held in Mangaluru, he later shifted the training sessions to his home in Panja and subsequently to V.V. College, B.C. Road, Mangaluru. His commitment has enabled him to train over a thousand students, with approximately 800 having attempted various competitive exams. Many of these students have successfully secured jobs in banking, government sectors, and beyond, greatly contributing to their families and communities.
Through the Gandhi Vidyapeetha, Purushottama is also dedicated to making gram panchayats in Sullia taluk plastic-free. He conducts awareness campaigns in Jaloor, Mandekolu, and Ajjavara villages, collaborating with various organisations to instil a sense of responsibility among students and community members. Thanks to these efforts, students are now collecting plastic waste at home and bringing it to schools for proper disposal through the panchayat.
Moreover, Mooduru promotes the concept of village self-governance and sustainable practices by providing training in organic farming and zero-capital income generation. He collaborates with scientists from Mangaluru to offer specialised training in environmentally friendly practices, including vermicomposting, to equip villagers with valuable skills.
In a unique twist to his birthday celebrations, Purushottama organised a plastic collection drive along the highway from Kanaka Majaluvina to Paicharu. Together with friends and various community groups, he led a cleanliness drive, successfully collecting plastic waste and ensuring its proper disposal through the local panchayat.
Purushottama Mooduru stands out as a rare Gandhian in today’s world. His unwavering dedication to social causes, environmental sustainability, and education showcases a selfless commitment to his community. As social worker Sheena Shetty aptly notes, “He is working as a genuine and selfless social worker.” Through his efforts, he not only honours Gandhi’s legacy but also inspires others to contribute positively to society. Purushottama’s work serves as a shining example of how one individual can bring about transformative change, illuminating the lives of many in the process.