Press Report
BANGALORE, INDIA, January 4, 2005: As the relief for the tsunami victims is pouring in the form of cash, clothes, medicines and others, some noble souls have taken a step ahead and decided to adopt the children who have been left orphaned by the killer waves which devoured thousands and rendered many more, homeless. Apart from helping the victims with a cash of US$11,000, Sri Balagangadharanatha Swamiji of Adichunchanagiri Mutt has decided to adopt the children orphaned by the tsunami. Speaking to press persons after handing over the cheque to Chief Minister N. Dharam Singh on Sunday here, the Seer said that the Mutt would adopt the children, whatever the numbers, and provide not only food and shelter but also education. “Apart from these gestures, the Mutt will transport 1,000 quintals of rice, clothes, utensils and other items before January 6,” he said. Praising the Mutt’s gesture towards tsunami victims, the Chief Minister said that Karnataka, which is lending all help, is a leading contributor. The 12,000 and odd staff members in all the institutions run by Adichunchanagiri Mutt are donating their one-day salary for this noble cause. As a goodwill gesture, even the grand 60th birthday celebrations of the Seer has been cancelled and only puja and religious functions will be held, it is learnt.