Udupi: Social worker Ravi Katapadi has once again demonstrated his commitment to helping underprivileged children by handing over Rs 41,82,935 collected from the public towards the medical treatment of 14 children suffering from various illnesses.
The financial assistance was distributed to the parents of the children at a programme held at Babbuswamy Kshetra in Petebettu, Katapadi.
Known for donning unique and elaborate costumes during Sri Krishna Janmashtami and Vittlapindi celebrations, Ravi has been using the occasion to raise funds for children from economically disadvantaged families who require medical treatment.
Public response exceeds Rs 15 lakh target
Every year, during the Krishna Janmashtami and Vittlapindi festivals, Ravi travels across Udupi and surrounding areas in different costumes, collecting donations from members of the public.
Initially, he used to dress up in various costumes for entertainment. Over time, he transformed the activity into a humanitarian initiative, dedicating the money collected to the treatment of sick children.
For his 2026 fundraising effort, Ravi had planned to raise money for the medical treatment of two children and set an initial target of at least Rs 15 lakh.
However, the response from the public far exceeded expectations. Donations totalled Rs 41,82,935, enabling assistance to be extended to 14 children instead of the two initially identified.
The collected amount was handed over to the respective families to support the children’s medical expenses.
Rs 2.28 crore assistance to 224 children in 11 years
Ravi Katapadi and his team have continued the initiative for the past 11 years, helping families who struggle to meet the cost of medical treatment for their children.
Including the latest contribution, the team has reportedly provided a total of Rs 2.28 crore towards the treatment of 224 children during this period.
The initiative is distinguished by its commitment to directing public donations entirely towards the medical needs of children requiring assistance. The funds collected through Ravi’s festival appearances are not used for personal purposes.
Over the years, the effort has developed into a sustained social service initiative, with members of the public contributing towards the treatment of children from financially weaker families.
Health concerns bring costume performances to an end
Ravi had earlier expressed concern that years of using chemical paints, adhesives and makeup for his elaborate costumes had affected his health.
In view of these difficulties, he announced that his appearance during the 2026 Krishna Janmashtami celebrations would be his final costume performance.
However, he has clarified that discontinuing the costume performances does not mean an end to his social service. He intends to continue supporting children suffering from illnesses and helping their families meet medical expenses.
The latest collection of more than Rs 41.82 lakh, against the initial target of Rs 15 lakh, reflects the public response to his long-running initiative.
Ravi Katapadi and his team have earned appreciation for turning a popular festival tradition into a platform for humanitarian service. Their continued efforts have provided financial support to hundreds of children and brought hope to families facing difficult medical circumstances.