Tula Behera, a woman in her 70s from Phulbani in Odisha, has captured the nation’s attention with her extraordinary act of generosity. Known for donating her life savings to a local Jagannath temple, Tula now finds herself featured in the Central Government’s 2025 calendar, alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the January page.
The photograph, taken during the Prime Minister’s visit to Phulbani on May 11, 2024, shows Tula shaking hands with Modi, who was deeply moved by her selfless act. During their meeting, the Prime Minister praised her devotion and shared how her humble gesture inspired him to serve the country. When offered assistance, Tula politely declined, saying she only sought the blessings of Lord Jagannath.
In December 2022, Tula made headlines when she donated ₹1 lakh—the sum of her savings earned over 40 years of begging near local temples—to the Jagannath Temple in Phulbani. Despite her modest means, Tula felt compelled to contribute to the temple’s renovation. Having lost her husband, Prafulla Behera, who was physically disabled, Tula continued to beg alone, dedicating herself to Lord Jagannath.
Though the temple management initially hesitated, they eventually accepted her donation. Tula expressed that the donation had given her life a sense of fulfillment, saying, “I don’t need money anymore. If I can serve Lord Jagannath, that’s enough for me.”
When she learned her photo would be included in the government calendar, Tula was overwhelmed with joy. “I’m just a simple woman, living a humble life. I never expected this kind of recognition. It feels like a dream,” she said, her eyes glowing with pride.
Tula’s story is a powerful reminder that acts of kindness, no matter how small or humble, can leave an enduring mark on the world.
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