Jaipur: Vishnu Bharatesh is on a mission to revolutionize Indian cities through a campaign promoting awareness about cleanliness. He is a resident of Dag village in Jhalawar district, Rajasthan. He rides a bike with the Indian flag hoisted in the front. The gas tank reads the words ‘Swachh Bharat Kranti’ meaning Clean India Revolution.

His motorbike is equipped with dustbins. Using tongs, he collects the litter himself and educates people about the importance of cleanliness through loudspeakers. Vishnu lived in the Gulf for a year and a half. He was inspired by the cleanliness standards there and wished of similar cleanliness in his own country. Upon returning to India, he began his campaign about cleanliness in the year 2015.

Enduring challenges

Vishnu Bharatesh completed his education in Arts. As a well-educated person, embarking on this cleanliness drive was a difficult task. People often associated the work of collecting trash to feelings of shame. His family members were concerned about the nature of his work. Despite the challenges, Vishnu remained resolute in his mission to raise awareness and promote cleanliness throughout the country. Over time, however, he has garnered support from the community.

Educating people

Vishnu Bharatesh has travelled across states like Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Ayodhya, Jammu & Kashmir, and Delhi to spread awareness about cleanliness. He emphasizes the importance of cleanliness not only in cities but also in villages by actively collecting garbage. 

Vishnu also owns a shop to earn a living. When he goes out on his cleanliness drives, his wife takes charge of managing the shop. Moreover, he also educates train passengers at railway stations about cleanliness and encourages them to dispose of polythene and other items properly in the dustbins. 

The role of the bike

Remarkably, Vishnu Bharatesh carries out the cleanliness task all by himself. His bike, adorned with Army colours, is distinctive and holds a special significance. He visits public areas in cities and villages, collecting garbage and educating people about the advantages of maintaining cleanliness.