Their effort will prove an inspiration for many more: Governor

Social service has always been a part of our tradition and the principle of placing service above self lies at the core of India’s psyche, said Tamil Nadu governor Banwarilal Purohit.
"Viewing humanity of the world as one family is fundamental to our way of thinking," he said speaking at TOI’s ‘Kovai Gethu Heroes’ award ceremony held in the city on Thursday evening.
True to this tradition, Purohit said, the 12 good Samaritans chosen as the ‘Kovai Gethu Heroes’ by TOI had, by their selfless sacrifice, made a mark for themselves and created an indelible imprint in the hearts and minds of people. "Their effort is certain to prove as an inspiration for many more to follow in their footsteps," he said.
The governor said that while Coimbatore is known for its industries, educational institutions and its salubrious climate, it is also a city with a large number of good Samaritans. But many of them remain unacknowledged, he said underlining the significance of initiatives such as this by The Times of India in bringing their work to light.
To illustrate message that man has to do good even in times of adversity, the governor narrated an incident from the life of Raja Ranjit Singh who gave 1,000 silver coins to an impoverished woman, though she had accidentally thrown a stone at him.
Purohit then gave three suggestions to be pursued in thought and deed. "The first one relates to Mother Nature. Live close to nature for, that is the message for sustainable development. The second relates to character building. Character building goes beyond being good."
"The third relates to the past, present and future. Learn from the past, live in the present and look towards the future. This will propel you towards happiness and achievement," he noted.