-Udaya Poojari, Barkur
The Man Barkur Calls First
When word spreads that someone has drowned — in a river, a well, or any body of water in and around the Brahmaavar region — there is one name that immediately comes to mind: Manjunath of Barkur. Without hesitation, he rushes to the spot, conducts rescue operations, and stands as a pillar of support for the distressed and their families.
Manjunath is widely recognised as an expert diver, skilled at navigating rivers, wells, and deep water bodies — a rare ability he has put entirely at the service of others.
A Life in Service
A dedicated member of Shourya Disaster Management Team in Barkur, driven by a deep social conscience, Manjunath finds fulfilment in community service. His contributions span a remarkable range:
- Rescue operations for drowning victims in the Brahmaavar region
- Repairing homes of the poor
- Restoring and painting village bus shelters and public rest stops
- Cleanliness drives around government schools, carried out regularly alongside fellow volunteers
- Tree climbing expertise — whenever a fallen tree threatens homes or property in the village, Manjunath is called upon to clear it
- Fodder supply to the local Goshala (cow shelter) — he cuts grown grass and delivers it free of charge, accepting no payment.
Record of Service
As the Unit Representative of the Barkur Unit under Brahmaavar Taluk, Manjunath has accumulated an impressive and verifiable record:
- 62 special continuous service missions completed
- 190 social service activities rendered
- Number of blood donations.
A Talent Beyond Service
Manjunath is also a gifted singer with a melodious voice. In a music competition organised for Shaurya volunteers on the theme of First Aid and CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), he secured first place at the state level — a testament to his versatility and commitment to the cause even in creative expression.
Leading by Example
As the leader of the Shaurya unit in Barkur, Manjunath continuously motivates his fellow volunteers, ensuring that service activities are carried out without interruption. His leadership is not one of authority, but of inspiration — he leads from the front, doing what needs to be done, when it needs to be done.
The achievements of Barkur's Manjunath Poojari stand as a model for all — a reminder that genuine service asks for nothing in return.
Source: Kannada feature published by Janajagruthi Pradeshika Vibhaga, Belthangady, under the 'Shaurya Sadhakaru' (Courageous Achievers) series.