When Narayanan Krishnan, one of the World’s Top Ten Heroes of 2010 named by CNN, received the V-RYTHM Award and a cheque of USD25,000 from QI Group Executive Chairman Vijay Eswaran in 2011, it signified the beginning of an exciting new journey for RYTHM Foundation and the Akshaya Trust.
Krishnan founded the Akshaya Trust with his own savings after he saw how the mentally-ill were being harassed on the streets – the donation by RYTHM Foundation would aid the completion of the Akshaya Home that was being built; a home that would provide food and shelter to the homeless, helpless and mentally disabled people of Madurai.
Krishnan’s selfless journey that began in 2002, coupled with generous donations from kindred spirits throughout the world, has helped him to finally make his dreams a reality.
On 9 May 2013, the Akshaya Home, through a special inaugural ceremony, will officially open its doors to those who are in need – on this special day, nine blocks of the home and its main entrance will be inaugurated by future residents, followed by the hoisting of the Indian flag.
QI Group Executive Chairman Vijay Eswaran presenting the cheque to Narayanan Krishnan
Honoured by the Foundation’s contribution towards this cause which is so close to his heart, Krishnan has extended a personal invitation to Principal Trustee of RYTHM Foundation and QI Group Executive Chairman Vijay Eswaran to attend the inauguration in India.
Eswaran has always believed that philanthropy is more than just about writing out a cheque – it is about truly dedicating time and energy towards making a difference. The V-RYTHM Award recognises humanitarians who epitomise charity, compassion and mercy. In his award-presentation speech in 2011, Eswaran proudly told audience that it is people like Krishnan who “renew faith in mankind.”
Once again, congratulations to Narayanan Krishnan and everyone who has made Akshaya Home a possibility!
The Akshaya Home