Nayagarh: In a heartwarming recognition, a 70-year-old beggar from Phulbani has earned a spot in the central government’s 2025 calendar alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Tula Behera, affectionately known as Tula Mausi made headlines in 2022 after donating her life savings of Rs 1 lakh to a Jagannath temple in Phulbani. When Prime Minister Modi was informed about her during a visit to Phulbani, he called her to the stage at a public meeting and felicitated her.
As per reports, the photograph featuring Behera shaking hands with PM Modi appears on the January page of the official calendar and has taken the internet by storm. Released on January 6, the image has earned widespread acclaim, with many praising Modi for recognizing Behera’s selfless spirit.
It is pertinent to mention that the photo was taken during Modi’s visit to Phulbani on May 11, 2024.
During his interaction with Tula Behera last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was deeply moved by her selfless donation of Rs 1 lakh to the Jagannath temple in Phulbani. He was so inspired by her kindness that he sought her blessings to serve the nation.
“After getting blessings from such a mother, I am inspired to serve the country and its people.” This is what Modi had said following his interaction with Behera.
That’s not all. When Modi offered to help Behera, the philanthropic beggar humbly declined, saying, “Lord Jagannath’s blessings are enough for me.”
Tula was overjoyed when she learnt that her photo had been featured in the government calendar. “I’m just a humble beggar, struggling to make ends meet. I’m thrilled that the money I donated to the Jagannath temple, earned through my begging, has brought me such recognition. It’s a truly surreal moment for me,” she said, her eyes shining with happiness.
