Actor and director Rishab Shetty delivered a powerful message on the essence of service, or 'seva', at the launch of a major nationwide volunteering initiative in Bengaluru. The event marked the beginning of the International Volunteer Year (IVY) 2026, a year-long campaign designed to foster youth-led community service across India.
From Stagnation to Flow: Shetty's Philosophy of Giving
Speaking at the launch held at RV Teachers' College on Saturday, Shetty shared a profound metaphor for social engagement. "We keep taking from society and become stagnant; the moment we start giving back, we turn into flowing water," he stated. This idea of seva, he explained, resonates deeply with his personal and professional journey. Rejecting a superficial role, he emphasized his desire to be more than a brand ambassador. "I wanted to work as a volunteer and 'a servant'," Shetty said, calling on young people to step forward and help transform societal attitudes.
Roots in Grassroots: Govt Schools and Societal Change
Reflecting on his own background, Shetty recalled being a below-average student from a government school. He credited his village, its people, and local culture for shaping both his worldview and his cinematic work. In a significant endorsement, he stressed that government schools have produced some of the finest minds in the country. His message underscored the potential within local communities and public education systems.
IVY 2026: A Blueprint for Sustained Volunteering
The event was organized by the non-governmental organization Youth For Seva. Representatives outlined the ambitious goals of IVY 2026, which aims to fundamentally change how volunteering is approached. The key objective is to move away from one-off events towards sustained, year-round engagement. To ensure continuity and a measurable impact, the initiative will collaborate closely with:
- Government schools
- Grassroots community groups
- Various civic institutions
Another prominent voice at the launch was Dr. R Balasubramaniam, founder of the Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement. He urged the youth to take personal responsibility for driving social transformation. He highlighted that youth-led service can bridge social divides while building leadership, empathy, and civic responsibility.
A Gathering of Changemakers
The launch event demonstrated significant collective interest in the cause. It saw participation from over 600 individuals, including active volunteers, partners from other NGOs, educators, corporate representatives, and donors. This diverse turnout highlights the broad-based support for creating a structured, impactful volunteering movement in India, spearheaded by the nation's youth.
