By Nishali Kunder
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi
Udupi, Sep 28: For the past nine years, Ravi Katapadi has raised over Rs 1.28 crore to support 130 sick children. This year, he dressed as a character from "Avatar 2", collaborating with his friend Ashik Anchan for a unique look. “The costume is designed for an animation film, and we created a bird to enhance the overall appearance,” said Ravi.
Ravi has been dressing up in unusual costumes, entertaining guests and raising money throughout Janmashtami to assist sick children.
“The main reason I kept it a little simple and not too scary is that our intention this time was not only to collect funds but also to entertain the children. Many kids have asked me to visit their schools. I visited five schools this time, and seeing the excitement on their faces gave me great satisfaction. They eagerly awaited my visit, standing under the hot sun. Even the kids enjoyed pulling my tail in the costume. Kids love animation like Avatar, and with terrifying costumes, I wouldn’t have approached them as easily. It might be simple for me, but for the kids, it’s something huge. That is why I decided to wear this costume,” he explained.
Dinesh Mattu Katapadi, who designs Ravi’s costumes, emphasised the joy of creating art for such a noble cause: “Art work is like a God gift for it since my childhood. Ravi Katapadi is the one who changed the path of my work life in a better way. My artwork has value today and it's only because of Ravi Katapadi.”
Ravi began his journey 15 years ago, initially donning a Spiderman costume. At first, his family had no clue about his activities, and when his father found out, he was upset. However, after Ravi showed him a newspaper photo, his father became proud. “Before, when I used to wear a costume, people would close the door and hide inside their homes. Now, people come in search of me from different places and fund me for my service,” he noted.
Despite challenges like not eating for days while in costume, Ravi remains dedicated. “I don’t mind if I won’t eat for 3 days. For the rest of the 362 days I'll eat well,” he said. “People now seek me out for support, which reflects the trust I’ve built.”
Ravi’s funding process includes thorough vetting of families in need, ensuring the legitimacy of requests. “Every year I get many application letters or calls from those in need of funds. Most of them end up being fake, just to get money,” he explained. He has even taken loans to help others, setting strict rules to only support children under 12: “We only give the fund to children under 12 years. No matter if they are our family members.”
His appearance on "Kaun Banega Crorepati" with Amitabh Bachchan was a highlight, resulting in a Rs 25 lac win for his charitable efforts. “I was afraid I wouldn't be able to respond to any questions because I didn't know how to speak Hindi or English,” he recalled. The experience was made even more special when Bachchan greeted people in Udupi and Mangaluru in Tulu, saying, “Udupi Bokka Kudlada Janaklega Yenna Mokyada Namaskara,” with Ravi’s help.
Throughout the pandemic, Ravi anonymously provided food to those in need. His team has grown from seven to over 120 members, all committed to the cause. Shritesh Devadiga, a teammate, remarked, “Though he is a celebrity now, I am still treated close to him because of his simplicity. He is a very humble, simple, and down-to-earth person.”
Ravi believes true service should not seek recognition or rewards: “The one doing service for others should never be regarded as a social worker or be rewarded with any award,” he says.
This year, funds raised will benefit three children, and Ravi is hopeful that his efforts will inspire others to join the cause. “Even if I can't continue, my teammates will carry on the work,” he concluded.