Valluvar Wrote It, Bothra Quotes It, Rotary Lives It! – DG Mahaveer Bothra
Ever wondered what happens when ancient Tamil wisdom meets modern Rotary magic? That’s exactly what unfolded when I chatted with our smiling Governor Bothra Ji! Between his infectious laughter and perfectly timed Tirukkural quotes, I discovered how this unique blend creates service excellence. Warning: His positivity is highly contagious!
Vanakkam, Bothra Ji! It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. As the District Governor of RI District 3233, your contribution to Rotary has been immense. Could you please share with our readers what Rotary means to you?
Vanakkam, Sashi! For me, Rotary is not just an organization – it’s a way of life. As Tirukkural says,
“அன்போடு இயைந்த வழக்கென்ப ஆருயிர்க்கு
என்போடு இயைந்த தொடர்பு.”
“Just as life flows when body and soul unite, true impact flows when love and service unite.”
In Rotary, it’s this union of hearts that creates the biggest ripple effect. So, yes, Rotary isn’t just about meetings; it’s about that extra mile we go that transforms lives, one project at a time.
You’re known as a great advocate of Tirukkural. How does this ancient Tamil text guide you in your Rotary journey?
Tirukkural is like a personal coach! As it says,
“அற்றார் அழிபசி தீர்த்தல் அஃதொருவன்
பெற்றான் பொருள்வைப் புழி.”
“True wealth is stored in the joy of feeding the hungry.”
That’s the essence of Rotary, isn’t it? Wealth isn’t in the bank; it’s in the smiles we bring to people’s faces. The Tirukkural reminds us to keep our ‘savings’ in the hearts we uplift. Now, that’s an investment strategy Rotarians can get behind!
That’s a profound quote, Bothra Ji. Could you share another Tirukkural verse that resonates with you as a Rotarian?
Absolutely! One of my favourites is,
“புணர்ச்சி பழகுதல் வேண்டா; உணர்ச்சிதான்
நட்பாங் கிழமை தரும்.”
“Friendship doesn’t require constant meetups; it’s built on shared understanding and purpose.”
Isn’t that exactly how we Rotarians are? We are 1.4 million friends across the world, working towards the same goal of ‘Service Above Self.’ No need to meet everyone – we are connected by our purpose, not just proximity!
You’re known for your grand and innovative events. What inspires you to think big and go beyond the ordinary?
Haha, you know me too well, Sashi! I follow this Tirukkural,
“உள்ளுவ தெல்லாம் உயர்வுள்ளல்; மற்றது
தள்ளினும் தள்ளாமை நீர்த்து.”
“Let your thoughts always aim high; even if fate intervenes, hold on tight!”
In Rotary, there’s no room for small thinking! Whether it’s a past-presidents’ conclave or an awards night, we go big or go home. The goal? To make every project a spectacle that lifts others’ spirits and sets a new bar for service.
I couldn’t agree more, Bothra Ji. Let’s talk about your infectious smile and positive attitude. How do you maintain this spirit, even in the face of challenges?
The secret to my smile, (pause and smiles) You all know this popular Tirukkural,
“இடுக்கண் வருங்கால் நகுக; அதனை
அடுத்தூர்வது அஃதொப்ப தில்.”
“When troubles come, greet them with a smile; nothing works like that!”
I believe in seeing the big picture, and in Rotary, that means trusting that every challenge is just a stepping stone to a bigger impact. Besides, a smile costs nothing but does wonders – both for us and for those we serve! So keep smiling.
That’s an inspiring perspective, Bothra Ji. Now, you’ve achieved phenomenal membership growth in your district and are World number two. What’s your secret?
Again, the secret lies in Tirukkural,
“தெரிந்த இனத்தொடு தேர்ந்தெண்ணிச் செய்வார்க்கு
அரும்பொருள் யாதொன்றும் இல்.”
“Nothing is out of reach for those who plan well and work with the right team.”
In Rotary, it’s all about teamwork! Do your homework, plan smart, and choose dedicated leaders, and you’ll watch growth happen as naturally as a smile at a Rotary meeting. With the right people, anything’s possible!
You recently recognized 400+ Past Presidents at the Kalankarai Vilakku – Past-Presidents’ Conclave. What inspired you to focus on them?
Ah, a great lesson from Thiruvalluvar! He says,
“தம்மிற் பெரியார் தமரா ஒழுகுதல்
வன்மையுளெல்லாந் தலை.”
“The greatest power lies in associating with those who are truly great; their strength becomes yours.”
Our Past Presidents are the unsung heroes of Rotary. They’ve led with passion, and they hold the wisdom and experience that can take us to the next level. These are the powerhouses we can tap into – it’s like having a fleet of seasoned captains steering our ship toward greater growth and impact!
Usually, Rotary awards are given at the annual function, but you conducted a quarterly awards gathering with 1000+ Rotarians last month. What inspired you to do that?
(laughs) Well, you don’t need Tiruvalluvar for this one, Sashi!
We all need recognition – especially in a volunteer organization like Rotary, where people serve with ‘Service Above Self’ as their motto. Why wait a whole year to applaud hard work? Let’s celebrate every quarter! Our Rotarians deserve it. After all, we’re known for our big hearts, not just in giving service but in giving appreciation too. Let’s not go stingy on the applause – because every Rotarian deserves to shine!
Beautifully said, Bothra Ji! What advice would you give to young Rotarians who are just starting their journey?
It’s quite simple, Sashi – follow the Tirukkural: “
ஆக்கம் அதர்வினாய்ச் செல்லும் அசைவிலா
ஊக்க முடையானுழை.”
“Wealth and success follow the one with unstoppable energy and action.”
I’d tell young Rotarians – don’t stop, don’t quit! Perseverance is the real game-changer. Whether it’s climbing the career ladder or leading avenues in your clubs or district, your relentless drive and focus will bring success right to your doorstep. Stay energized, and success will have no choice but to follow!
