The philosophy of giving
Prioritise your health, and never procrastinate when it comes to work and major decisions in life,” advised DGN Ravishankar Dakoju, RID 3192, at a meeting of RC Madras, RID 3234. “Life is unpredictable. We don’t know what will happen tomorrow or even the next moment. So, don’t postpone critical decisions and burden your children. Even though children today are smart and know what to do when, with a clear vision,” he said.
On the larger issues of life and livelihood, he said 80 per cent of people “have same aspirations like studying well, earning money, getting married, creating wealth and more wealth for their children and family.” The story between birth and death reads the same for most people, “but as Rotarians, we stand apart for our service as we touch many lives in our bid to create a better world.”
Recalling his life’s journey, Dakoju said, “I was below average in school with a low IQ level. In over four decades of business, I have seen many difficulties and challenges… but overcme them all. Now I want to give back to the same society which helped me make money.”
When he announced his decision to give `100 crore to TRF, “my elder daughter was annoyed telling me, ‘why can’t you do it without publicity.’ My wife Paola was concerned about the future of our two daughters as we were giving away a good part of our wealth. It took some time for her to absorb the shock of my action.” A Rotarian friend rebuked him in Urdu, “what have you done. Now, mafia gangs will be after you.” But nothing ever happened, he smiled.
He urged RC Madras to partner with his home club, RC Bangalore in the restoration of the Palar river as a major portion of the river “flows through Tamil Nadu before merging with the Bay of Bengal. We have done extensive plantation at the Palar river basin and the project is under progress.”
DG N S Saravanan said, “the Dakoju family must be applauded for their selfless contribution to TRF. Rotary gives opportunity for everyone to give, and Dakoju has exemplified the joy of giving.”
Club president Chella Krishna welcomed the gathering. K Laalithya from RC Adelaide, RID 9510, and Folashade Samuels from RC Wuse Central Abuja, RID 1927, were among the special invitees. DGE Vinod Saraogi and PDG Benjamin Cherian were also present.
