Daijiworld Media Network –Udupi (TP)
Udupi, Sep 13: Ravi Katpady, Ravi Friends Katpady team decided not to have his tableau during Krishna Janmashtami 2025, citing health issues. Udupi native Ravi Katapady, has raised over Rs 1.72 crore by dressing up as numerous characters and have helped over 182 children, who could not afford for their treatments.
Ravi Katpady’s life mission has always been to support the underprivileged, but his current health condition has forced him to step back from his service work. Every year, as Krishna Janmashtami approaches, the people of Udupi eagerly wait to see which character Ravi will portray. This year too, the entire city was anticipating his appearance. However, Ravi has confirmed that due to health issues, he will not be dressing up as any character or raising funds for any social cause this year.
Ravi Katpady is known for dressing up in elaborate, Hollywood-inspired costumes during the Krishna Janmashtami festival, using his creativity to raise funds for a heartfelt cause. His remarkable journey began 10 years ago when he first donned a Spider-Man costume.
Ravi Katpady, who earned the title of Karamveer in a special episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) alongside Pabiben Rabari, donated the entire prize amount of Rs 25 lac to fund a child’s treatment. In 2024, he collaborated with his friend Ashik Anchan to portray a character from Avatar 2.
Ravi Katpady, the man behind these iconic characters, not only entertained the public but also dedicated his efforts to raising money for the underprivileged. He consistently chose challenging costumes, enduring tough conditions by fasting for three days, managing without proper facilities, and surviving solely on water.
Ravi has also issued a cautionary message, stating that neither he nor his team will be raising funds this year and urging people to be vigilant if anyone approaches them for donations in his name.
Ravi Katpady, said, “During Krishna Janmashtami, everyone in Udupi eagerly looks forward to seeing which character I will dress up as. Over the past 10 years, I have been able to raise Rs 1.72 crore in just 20 days, helping 182 children, thanks to the incredible support I’ve received from people across India and abroad. I sincerely apologise that this year I will not be donning any character, as my doctors have advised me to take rest due to health issues. I would also like to inform everyone that my team will not be collecting any funds this year. If anyone approaches you for donations in our name, please be cautious.”