CHENNAI: If one visits Kovalam, one may notice that most of the mentally ill patients there have smart haircuts - thanks to Bhadursha, who runs a barber shop in the area. He and others, who voluntarily help those affected by mental illnesses were honoured at the fourth annual Client-Caregiver Meeting organised by The Banyan on Monday. Bhadursha, whose father used to bring patients to his barber shop 35 years ago, continues the work that his father started. He also helps at the Banyan Hospital at Kovalam. Remembering his experiences, he says, “Whatever I did, I did not do it with expectations. People ask me how I bring myself to do this, but it is just a simple act of humanity.”G Mani of Vinayaga Ambulances was recognised for his contribution of ambulance and hearse services. Talking to City Express, he said, “I know how difficult these situations can be. I have been through difficult times in life, and now that I am sort of well settled, I do whatever I can.”The youngest awardee of the day was 10-year-old Sunaimaan. The student of Class five was once a patient at Banyan, who has recovered. But he still visits those at the Kovalam centre at least thrice a week. When asked what he does there, he says, “They are all my friends, I still go there and play with them. Sometimes, I even miss school to visit them.” The clients and caregivers of Banyan were also recognised. The best couple award went to Manohar and Savithri, both of them living with mental illnesses. With his wife more dependent on him, Manohar manages to take care of his wife while dealing with his own illness as well. Swamy Pillai was awarded the best Caregiver spouse for making sure his wife received regular check-ups, despite the trouble he had with walking. One of the most inspiring awardees was Adiamma, who is close to 80 years, but still takes care of her mentally-ill daughter. Travelling by bus from Tiruvottiyur to Royapettah, she brings her daughter to the Banyan for treatment. Other awards included Exist award, given to Bhagya, who was rescued by Banyan six years ago and now works independently as a beautician. The Employee award was given to Sriram and Harshad, who have continuously employed MI patients in their restaurant. Actor S Ve Shekher, singer Sreenivas, TV host Uma Padmanabhan and Super Singer winner Ajeesh were the guests of honour. They distributed the awards, and encouraged the 500 strong crowd with their words. Sreenivas, Ajeesh and Uma performed some popular cine songs, much to the delight of those present.
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