Aluva: For A Senthil Kumar, District General Secretary of the BJP in Ernakulam, and his wife Bhavani, the day begins as early as 3.30 am. Every morning, the couple prepares around 600 idlis along with sambar, without fail.

By 8 am sharp, they arrive at the District Hospital, Aluva, with the freshly cooked food. Sevabharathi volunteers also reach by then, and together they begin distributing breakfast to patients in the wards, their bystanders, and those waiting in the outpatient queue. On average, about 200 people benefit from this daily food service. Each person is served three idlis.

This initiative, led by Sevabharathi, has been running uninterrupted for the past two and a half years—even on holidays. On some days, the menu changes to include appam and kadala curry instead of the usual idli-sambar combo. As many patients arrive at the hospital as early as 6 am to get their OP tickets, they often end up waiting hours to see a doctor. This breakfast provides much-needed comfort during that long wait.

Sevabharathi provides the funds to purchase raw materials, while Senthil Kumar and his wife take on the cooking with dedication. Inspired by their effort, several kind-hearted individuals have also come forward to support the initiative through donations.

The food distribution drive is led by Sevabharathi president Narayanan Potti, vice president Dr Parvathy, convenor M C Shiju, and patron B Vishnuprasad.