They’re learning to give too: Karthi on Suriya’s kids donating to Agaram

At the 15th anniversary celebration of the Agaram Foundation in Chennai, actor Karthi spoke about the values that drive the organisation and the people behind it. He shared that he was especially touched to learn how Suriya and Jyotika’s children, Diya and Dev, have been quietly contributing their pocket money to Agaram’s Maadham 300 initiative.

“That really moved me,” he said. “It shows how deeply the values of giving are being passed on in their family.”

Karthi also highlighted how it is Jyotika who continues to inspire and anchor the foundation, which is run by both Suriya and Jyotika. He recalled how, whenever Suriya felt anxious about the resources required to sustain Agaram, Jyotika would be the one to offer strength and clarity.

“I’ve seen Anna (Suriya) often worry about the amount of money needed to support children’s education. Every time, Anni (Jyotika) would remind him: ‘Did we start this with money? No—we started it with love. The money will come.’ That courage is what helps him carry on,” Karthi said.

He also shared how Jyotika took initiative during the COVID-19 pandemic, stepping in to help hospitals that lacked basic medical equipment. “She made sure those needs were met too—and all of it happened through Agaram,” he added.

Reflecting on the values he grew up with, Karthi recounted a childhood experience that shaped his thinking. “We were taught that spending wisely is smart. I remember once, at a railway station, a porter asked for ₹50 to carry our luggage. My father agreed, but later handed him ₹100. I was surprised and asked why. He said, ‘He’s not going to build a bungalow with that—he’ll buy food for his kids.’ I was ten then, but I’ve never forgotten that moment.”

“These are the kinds of lessons that stay with you,” Karthi said. “We must continue doing good—not just as individuals, but together. This path needs more people to walk it.”
Concluding his speech, Karthi urged well-wishers and kind-hearted individuals to continue supporting Agaram and its mission to uplift and educate underprivileged children.