and raised in the dalit part of the small village of Keel Ottivakkam. Being the oldest of 5 children, he was given the opportunity to study by his father.

Because of the caste system, it is very hard for a member of a lower caste to achieve anything in social life. For dalits (formerly known as untouchables) it is almost impossible, since they don’t even belong to a caste at all. Still, through hard work and wanting little or nothing for himself, Mr. Jeeva managed to find a good job in academic education. He taught public administration at Madras University and was head of the public administration services faculty during the years leading up to his retirement. Though his father passed away when he was still very young, he gratefully remembers him every day because he feels he owes so much to him.

From the beginning of the seventies Mr. Jeeva has passionately and tirelessly strived for better lives and opportunities as well as education for his casteless fellow villagers, especially the children.

His dedication to those who are most vulnerable in combination with his great personality have made him a widely respected man.

Mr. Jeeva is married to Rani, also from Keel Ottivakkam. Together they have 3 daughters and 3 grandchildren.