Actor Soundararaja Presents Awards to Organic Farmers
Actor and social activist Soundararaja, through his “Mannukkum Makkalukkum Trust,” annually presents awards and cash prizes to farmers who practice honest organic farming, in commemoration of Nammalvar’s birthday. In keeping with this tradition, he honored 11 organic farmers from Thanjavur district this year by presenting them with the Nammalvar Award and a cash prize of ₹5,000 each. Speaking to reporters afterwards, he said:
“To mark Nammazhvar’s birthday, I have expressed my gratitude to 11 organic farmers from Thanjavur by presenting them with awards and cash prizes through the ‘Enna Mannukkum Makkalukkum’ (For My Soil and People) Trust. I consider this one of the most meaningful moments of my life.
Last year, we presented awards and cash prizes to 11 farmers in Usilampatti, Madurai district. The warm reception and the joy expressed by the farmers on that occasion inspired us to organize this event again this year. Like last year, the event was a great success this year as well.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to Thanjavur MLA Mr. R. Vijay Saravanan, who attended the event as a special guest, and to the agricultural expert Mr. Ko. Sithar, who delivered a special address on organic farming. I am also delighted that Mr. Boominathan, Nammazhvar’s nephew, participated in the event.
Today’s youth must realize the importance of agriculture. Society needs to cultivate an attitude of respect for the farmers who produce our food. Organic farming is not merely a method of cultivation; it is a way of life that protects the soil and human health.
Mr. Joseph Vijay had stated that if there were a next life, he would wish to be born as a farmer’s son. Therefore, I have great confidence that he will certainly do good things for farmers.
It is our duty to protect farmers and revive organic farming. We must plant more trees, protect water bodies, and properly maintain the trees that have been planted. Our objective is for everyone to participate in efforts to protect the environment.
Through the ‘Enna Mannukkum Makkalukkum’ Trust, various initiatives benefiting farmers, students, and society at large will continue to be undertaken in the future.”
Members of the ‘Enna Mannukkum Makkalukkum’ Trust from Thanjavur district, as well as members from other districts, participated in the event.
