Tamil Nadu teen performs Bharatnatyam for 3 hours to support Wayanad landslide victims

In a heartfelt display of compassion and solidarity, 13-year-old Harini Sri from Tamil Nadu took it upon herself to help the victims of the devastating landslides in Wayanad, Kerala.

The young dancer performed a three-hour-long Bharatnatyam recital, aiming to raise funds for those affected by the disaster.

Harini's efforts culminated in a meeting with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, where she donated Rs 15,000 to the Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF). The amount included her personal savings, reflecting her deep commitment to the cause. Additionally, Harini shared a video of her dance performance with the Chief Minister, who praised her for her noble initiative.

The Kerala government’s Information Public Relations Department took to X (formerly Twitter) to highlight Harini's initiative, commending her for using her talent to support the victims of the Wayanad landslides. The tweet underscored her generous donation and the inspiring message of unity and support that her actions conveyed.

"A 13-year-old girl from Tamil Nadu, Harini Sri, performed Bharatanatyam for 3 hours straight to raise funds for the Wayanad landslide victims. She donated Rs 15,000, including her savings, to CMDRF," the post read, celebrating Harini's contribution.

Harini's story is one of many community-driven efforts emerging in response to the catastrophic landslides that struck Wayanad in July. These efforts include various fundraising activities, such as a crowdfunding feast in Tamil Nadu, to support those who have lost their homes and livelihoods.

The landslides, triggered by relentless rains on July 30, caused widespread devastation in the Mundakkai and Chooralmala areas of Wayanad, resulting in the deaths of 417 people and leaving many trapped under the debris. In the aftermath, there have been increasing calls, led by opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi, to declare the Wayanad landslides a national disaster. Such a designation would facilitate the release of additional resources and funds for relief and rehabilitation.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has confirmed that the state government has requested the central government to officially recognize the disaster's severity. A nine-member committee from the Union Home Ministry has been tasked with assessing the situation and providing a report.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Wayanad on August 10. The Chief Minister expressed hope that the Prime Minister will respond positively to the appeals for central assistance and the provision of a comprehensive rehabilitation package.