Marudhupandian - A Young Train-Saver in India

On June 17, Golden Year 6 (2009), our Association members from Taipei, Formosa went to Dindigul Municipality in Tamil Nadu State, India and presented the Shining World Hero Award to Marudhupandian on behalf of Supreme Master Ching Hai. Last year on June 26, the then 13-year-old Marudhupandian and his 2-year-old sister Revathy were watching an express passenger train pass by near their home. Suddenly, he heard a loud noise and saw that a section of the rail had become detached. Taking his sister with him, Marudhu Pandian immediately ran to the railway crossing about half a kilometre away and reported the incident to the flagman. After that, on the way home, he saw another passenger train approaching. The quick-witted boy grabbed his sister’s red jacket and started waving it to warn the oncoming train. The train was stopped from being derailed just in time. Two more trains were then notified not to travel in that area. Therefore, several potential train accidents had been avoided.

The Award presentation was held at Marudhupandian’s home in the presence of his relatives and neighbors. Apart from receiving Master’s appreciation letter and a beautiful crystal plaque, Marudhupandian was also given a Hero T-shirt, Master’s publications and US$500 to purchase school supplies. Our lovely little hero was so delighted with all the gifts that he immediately put on the Hero T-shirt. He had also received the National Bravery Award from Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Young Marudhupandian, we admire your courageous and noble actions. May God’s grace be with you always.