By Sanu George

Thiruvananthapuram, Jun 18 (IANS): Malayalam superstar Mammootty is set to launch a campaign to spread the message of environmental hygiene in Kerala.

Mammootty, 58, told IANS in an exclusive chat that people of the state maintain personal hygiene, but they do not keep their surroundings hygienic.

"This is a real dangerous situation. It is high time that the message goes out strongly to the people that time is running out and we just can't leave our surroundings unhygienic," he said.

"I will lead this campaign and I am doing it with the support of the media here. Initial talks have reaped rich rewards and we are planning to launch a state-wide campaign," he added.

But the three-time National Award winner did not disclose the strategy.

The new programme is an extension of the numerous philanthropic activities he is involved in, ranging from conducting of free heart surgeries and cataract operations to spearheading the biggest pain and palliative care organisation in South India.

"I am the chief patron for all these programmes and each of them has separate organisations which do the actual work," Mammootty said.

He will also launch a state-wide campaign in schools against tobacco and drugs Saturday.

"Children are the future of our country and they have to be groomed. Young minds have to be nurtured and cared for," he said.

Asked how much money he keeps aside for philanthropic activities, the superstar laughed if off saying: "It is not me. It is the innumerable number of 'good hearts' who are always there to support me for the activities."

Mammootty is the highest paid Malayalam actor along with his 'rival' Mohanlal. Some of his recent hits include "Thommanum Makkalum", "Rajamanikyam" and "Pazhassi Raja".