Adipudi, a quaint village near Chirala in Bapatla District, was a place where life moved at an unhurried pace, in harmony with nature. Without electricity or proper roadways, the village had a single pond for various needs, and Venkat fondly recalls learning to fetch water with a "kavadi" – a cane yoke used to carry water pots balanced on the shoulder.
His early education took place in a rustic village school, where students sat under a tree, learning with a blackboard and an undeterred teacher. Despite the lack of facilities, this environment instilled in him a deep thirst for knowledge.
One of his fondest memories is of the Vijaya Dashami festival, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Students and teachers would walk through the village, collecting jaggery and fried pulses, celebrating with joy and enthusiasm.
An incident during his childhood left a lasting impact on him. After being stung by a scorpion, the immediate and compassionate response of the villagers, including the village doctor who treated him with Ayurvedic medicine, kindled a lifelong spark of kindness in him.
KEY
TAKEAWAYS
FROM CHILDHOOD
-
Patience and Resilience: Learning to use the kavadi taught him patience, focus, humility, balancing, helpfulness, and resilience.
-
Discipline: Following a routine instilled a strong sense of discipline.
-
Perseverance: His school experience taught him that determination can overcome adversity.
-
Community: The villagers' readiness to help in times of need emphasized the importance of extending a helping hand.
-
Respect: He learned to respect people regardless of their economic, educational, or social background.
