The Unstoppable Janaki Amma: A 63-Year-Old’s Quest to Save Lives
Meet Janaki Amma, a 63-year-old woman on a mission to save lives by teaching swimming lessons to hundreds of women and children daily, free of charge.
Image Credit : Better India
In the sleepy village of Thattekad, Kannur, a revolution is underway. Led by the indomitable Janaki Amma, a 63-year-old force of nature, this movement is not about protests or politics, but about something far more profound: saving lives.
I still remember the first time I heard about Janaki Amma. A friend mentioned this “amazing woman” who was teaching swimming lessons to kids and adults alike, free of charge. I was intrigued. What drives someone to dedicate their life to teaching others a skill that’s often taken for granted?
As I delved deeper into Janaki Amma’s story, I discovered a woman who embodies the spirit of selflessness and determination. Her journey began 11 years ago, when she realized that drowning was claiming far too many lives in Kerala. The statistics were staggering: 6,710 people had lost their lives to drowning between 2016 and 2021.
Janaki Amma knew she had to act. But what could one person do to make a difference? She began by doing what she knew best: teaching swimming lessons. Morning and evening, she’d dive into the local pond, her silver hair tied back in a neat bun, and teach anyone who was willing to learn.
At 63, Janaki Amma is the proof that you’re never too old to learn, to teach, or to make a difference. Her students adore her, and she’s become a beloved fixture in the community.
But Janaki Amma’s impact goes far beyond the village of Thattekad. She’s inspiring a movement, a wave of change that’s rippling across Kerala and beyond. She’s showing us that even the smallest actions can have a profound impact when driven by passion and purpose.
As I reflect on Janaki Amma’s story, I’m reminded of the power of human spirit. We all have the capacity to make a difference, to leave a mark on the world that’s uniquely our own. Janaki Amma’s legacy is a testament to the fact that age is not a barrier, that passion and determination can overcome even the most daunting challenges.
So the next time you’re tempted to think that you’re too old, too young, or too ordinary to make a difference, remember Janaki Amma. Remember her unstoppable spirit, her generosity, and her unwavering commitment to saving lives.
Anamika Chakravorty, Staff Reporter
