KOLLAM: Jalaja, a 56-year-old, serves food daily to 25 underprivileged people near the Kallumthazham Srinarayanapuram Maha Vishnu Temple. Jalaja, supported by Thulaseebhai, distributes rice, curry and pickles, sourced from funds earned through NREGS.

The initiative, which commenced two months ago, provides parcels to the needy excluding Thursdays and Sundays, when alternative provisions are available. Cooking commences at 6:30 am in Gopal's house concluding by 12 noon ensuring timely distribution.

Jalaja's philanthropy extends beyond daily meals, as she has been providing free food during Ochira temple festivals for a decade. Motivated by her childhood experiences of hunger and hardship, Jalaja remains committed to her noble cause aided by her children and nephews.