Chennai: A few days ago, this reporter was riding his two-wheeler on Ambattur Industrial Estate Road near Mullai Colony, when he was surprised to see many motorists stopping near traffic signal and rushing to get buttermilk that was being served free of cost.
Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation, Mugappair Samithi, was behind the good gesture.
Speaking to News Today, its convenor Narayana Rao, said, “This is the fourth year we are serving buttermilk to pedestrians, motorists and commuters not for fame but for God’s sake. From 1 to 31 May, we collected curd from members of our organisation who come voluntarily to render this service. Everyday, around 35 litres of curd collected from members was poured in a big vessel. We buy 10 cans of water to mix with the curd. Then we would add salt and masala to prepare buttermilk. Nearly, 700 glasses of buttermilk were served to the people daily. We would start serving by 10 am with the support of volunteers and it will be over around 12 noon.”
“Nowadays getting a glass of drinking water during summer that too during Agni Natchathiram is difficult for people who come out for work. Motorists plying here and there in the noon get dehydrated quickly by the sun rays. So, serving buttermilk freely for the parched throats is a good deed during summer,” said Kumar, a motorist.
Sumathi, a pedestrian, said, “People who are having enough money prefer to have fresh juice and other drinks. But poor people like me can’t spend money. So, we prefer water kept on streets and buttermilk served outside temples.”
“Buttermilk is best mix compared to any other juice to satisfy thirst. I thank the organisation for their service. In future, when I earn more money, I will render the same in my area,” said, Shankar, a commuter.
Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation, Mugappair Samithi can be contacted at 86100 79663.