“Be the change that you wish to see in the world.”
– Mahatma Gandhi
At 83, Suryanarayan has dedicated himself to living this principle. For the past 24 years, the retired manager has been sweeping and cleaning the streets of HSR Layout in Bengaluru every morning, transforming it into a spotless neighbourhood with clean drains, lush greenery, and no unsightly garbage spots.
For Suryanarayan, keeping his surroundings clean comes naturally. Growing up in a family of farmers, he developed a love for planting trees and nurturing the environment. Today, at an age when many prefer to rest and live a quiet life, you will find Suryanarayan continuing his work, broom in hand, every single day.
Since 2001, he has been tirelessly sweeping streets, unclogging drains, and composting dry leaves — even during the monsoons. He takes extra effort to remove accumulated mud during the rainy season to prevent drainage overflow.
For Suryanarayan, this work is far more than a routine task — it is a mission rooted in dedication and pride.
Despite facing injuries over the years, Suryanarayan remains undeterred. With his wife as his steadfast supporter, he believes no job is too big or too small. Reflecting on his journey, he proudly says that he does this for himself because it brings him immense joy.
His consistent efforts have not only kept his neighbourhood pristine but also inspired others to take ownership of their surroundings.
Suryanarayan’s story is a powerful reminder that meaningful change begins with individual action, no matter how small. Today, his street stands as a model of cleanliness and greenery, thanks to his selfless dedication.
Edited by Khushi Arora
