Karnataka's Harekala Hajabba Wins Padma Shri for Library Work
A fruit seller from Karnataka, Harekala Hajabba, has been awarded the Padma Shri for his extraordinary efforts in building a library with over 2 million books.
Source: GNews Padma AwardsHarekala Hajabba, a humble orange seller from Harekala village near Mangaluru, Karnataka, has been conferred with the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award. He received the award for his remarkable dedication to education and for establishing a library containing over 2 million books. Hajabba, who never attended school himself, used his meager earnings and even sold his house to fund the construction of a school and later a massive library in his village. His inspiring journey began with a desire to provide educational opportunities for children in his community, ensuring they would not face the same challenges he did due to lack of schooling. The library, a testament to his vision and sacrifice, now serves as a vital educational resource for many.
This news is important for competitive exams under the 'Awards & Honours' and 'Social Issues' sections. Aspirants should know about the Padma Awards, their categories, and notable recipients like Harekala Hajabba, who exemplify grassroots contributions to society. His story highlights the significance of individual efforts in promoting literacy and education, a key aspect of India's social development goals, relevant for UPSC GS Paper I (Social Empowerment) and SSC General Awareness.
- Harekala Hajabba received the Padma Shri award in 2021.
- He is from Harekala village near Mangaluru, Karnataka.
- Hajabba is known for building a library with over 2 million books.
- He was a fruit seller, specifically selling oranges.
- The Padma Shri is India's fourth-highest civilian award.
- He used his earnings and sold his house to fund the educational initiatives.
The Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian award in the Republic of India, after the Bharat Ratna, the Padma Vibhushan, and the Padma Bhushan. It is awarded by the Government of India to citizens who have made distinguished contributions in various fields such as arts, education, industry, literature, science, sports, medicine, social service, and public life.
Harekala Hajabba is an Indian social worker and orange vendor from Harekala, Karnataka. He is renowned for building a school and a library in his village using his life savings and earnings. His dedication to promoting education in his community, despite his own lack of formal schooling, earned him the Padma Shri award in 2021.
Exams frequently ask about recent Padma Award recipients, their fields of work, and the state they belong to. Focus on the category of award and the specific contribution made by the individual.
Remember 'Hajabba' for 'House' and 'Books' he sold his house for books to build a library.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Harekala Hajabba and why did he receive the Padma Shri?
Harekala Hajabba is an orange seller from Karnataka who received the Padma Shri for his extraordinary efforts in building a school and a library with over 2 million books in his village, Harekala, to provide education to local children.
What is the significance of Harekala Hajabba's library?
Harekala Hajabba's library, built through his personal sacrifice and dedication, serves as a crucial educational hub in his village. It provides access to books and learning resources for children and adults who might otherwise lack such opportunities, promoting literacy and knowledge.
Which award did Harekala Hajabba receive?
Harekala Hajabba received the Padma Shri, which is India's fourth-highest civilian award. This award recognizes his distinguished service in the field of social work and education.