Rameswaram:At the age of 70, when most people are executing their retirement plans, this woman in Tamil Nadu with unmatchable grit is serving the poor.
Rani runs an idli shop near Agni Tirtham in Rameswaram and serves free food to the needy.
Donning a bright smile on her face, she works relentlessly and earns her own livelihood. While she provides food to the poor for free, she charges a minimum amount from the rest of her customers.
Rani owns at a makeshift shop at Agni Thirtham seashore and uses the traditional wooden stove to prepare food.
Assisted by a temporary labourer, she works throughout the year to serve idli at the cost Rs 30 in a city where the residents say a plate of idli costs at least Rs 60.
"I do not have a proper shop, what I have is a temporary makeshift arrangement. People come to me only because of the love I shower on them. I never treat them as my customers, rather I consider them a member of my family," she said, adding, "Although I am old, I earn my livelihood."