Flood Hero
The other day, my professor was actually talking about him, S. Mohammad Yunus. At first, the name didn’t ring a bell. But as he continued, I realized this wasn’t just another story it is something great so I did a bit of reasearch about him and it was about a man who redefined bravery and selflessness. A man who went from being a "money-making machine" to a hero of humanity.
Yunus, a 26-year-old entrepreneur from Chennai, became a beacon of hope during the devastating floods that submerged the city. While many were stranded, he stepped in not for recognition, not for applause, but simply because he couldn't stand by and watch. With sheer will and determination, he rescued nearly 2,100 people, ensuring their safety in over 300 houses. On November 17 alone, he saved around 1,500 people, and when the city drowned again on December 2, he pulled another 600 to safety.
But perhaps the most touching part of his journey was when he saved a pregnant woman, Chitra, and her husband. She gave birth the very next day and, as a mark of gratitude, named her daughter Yunus. Imagine the kind of impact one person can have not just in the moment but for generations to come.
Yunus was honored with the Anna Medal for Gallantry by then-Chief Minister Jayalalithaa during the 67th Republic Day celebrations. But what’s truly inspiring is how the experience changed him. From a man driven by business, he transformed into someone with a greater purpose reforming the youth. Now, he’s working on an app that will focus on entrepreneurship, politics, and reforms, aiming to inspire others to bring change.
It’s rare to see someone shift so drastically from personal gain to public good. Yunus isn't just a flood hero; he's a symbol of how adversity can awaken something greater within us. He reminds us that courage isn’t just about taking risks it’s about using what we have to make a difference.
And maybe that’s why people queued up after the Republic Day parade just to take a picture with him. Because heroes like him don’t wear capes ,they wear humanity.
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