A Poem that sparked a Movement: The Story of Sevalaya Murali

“If you educate the poor, it’s like building a thousand temples.”These words, once read by an 11-year-old boy in a borrowed book of Bharathiyar’s poems, would go on to shape the destiny of thousands. That boy was Murali—now known across South India as the founder of Sevalaya, a beacon of hope for the underprivileged.

The Spark That Lit the Flame

Murali’s journey began not in a grand hall or a policy meeting, but in the humble home of a classmate. A curious child, he stumbled upon a book of Bharathiyar’s poems during a school holiday. What started as fascination with the poet’s turban and moustache soon turned into a revelation. Bharathiyar’s words challenged rituals, questioned blind faith, and called for action—especially in education.

One poem struck Murali deeply: it condemned towns without schools and urged readers to start one. That moment planted a seed.

Books That Shaped a Vision

Murali’s early reading included not just Bharathiyar, but also Swami Vivekananda and Mahatma Gandhi. Vivekananda’s fierce compassion for the hungry and Gandhi’s constructive programs gave Murali a blueprint for change. He realized that true service meant feeding the hungry, educating the poor, and empowering villages.

With just ₹20 and a group of friends, Murali started the Vivekananda Association. They bought chocolates, visited orphanages, and began their journey of service.

The Birth of Sevalaya

In 1988, just three weeks after his wedding, Murali and his wife launched Sevalaya. It began with five children in a rented cottage. No electricity, no monthly rent, no government grants—just pure intent. His wife quit her job to support the mission full-time, while Murali continued working at TCS, using his global exposure to shape Sevalaya’s structure.

Their goal was radical: 100% free education for bonded laborers, orphans, and the poorest of the poor. No fees, no charges—not even for books, uniforms, or lunch.

From One Village to Fifty-Five

Today, Sevalaya operates in 55 locations across South India, with its flagship school in Kasuva village educating over 2,200 children. The model remains the same: free education, free meals, and a future built on dignity.

Murali’s impact goes beyond education. Sevalaya runs homes for abandoned elders, marries off orphan girls, and accepts donations in any form—money, service, or even medicine.

Reviving Bharathiyar’s Legacy

Murali’s love for Bharathiyar didn’t end with poetry. He revived the poet’s legacy in Ettayapuram, where Bharathiyar once lived. Murali built a community college, a medical center, and even a statue of Bharathiyar and Chellamma, his wife. Every year on June 27, the town celebrates their wedding with grandeur—complete with palanquins, poetry competitions, and performances by Bharathiyar’s descendants.

Living the Dream

Murali doesn’t just admire Bharathiyar—he lives his dream. As he says, “I’m not just with Bharathiyar’s poetry, I’m living with Bharathiyar’s dreams.”

His story is a testament to how one poem, one book, one moment can change lives—not just one, but thousands.

Why This Story Matters

Murali’s journey reminds us that real change begins with conviction. You don’t need millions to start—you need a mission. His life is a masterclass in turning inspiration into action, and poetry into purpose.

If this story moved you, stay tuned. More such stories of transformation, grit, and vision are coming your way.