Chennai: The temple town of Tiruvannamalai is not only the abode of gods but has also now become an abode for a few citizens of war-tone Ukraine and Russia. Six Ukrainians and 16 Russians stay at the same home in Tiruvannamalai for the past week.
According to a report on The New Indian Express, a resident of Tiruvannamalai VS Sathyan Gopalan with the help of his friends has started an initiative to provide help for the stranded tourists. Through the initiative, Gopalan has been providing free food and shelter.
VS Sathyan Gopalan said, we have decided to help the stranded Russians and Ukrainians due to the war and it doesn't cost much.
"I provide a place to stay and take care of electricity bills while my friends provide dry rations," he said.
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Gopalan came up with the thought to help the foreign residents after two Ukrainians were seen crying near Arunachaleshwarar Temple in the district.
Currently, Gopalan said 11 out of 14 rooms in his guest house are full but he is ready to welcome more stranded tourists.
Gopalan is also trying to help Ukrainian tourists across the country by arranging food and accommodation in the respective state.
However, the bond between Ukrainian and Russian tourists has surprised many in the district. Despite the ongoing conflict, two Russian psychologists are providing counseling to Ukrainians who are disturbed by the turn of events. They also translate the speech of Ukrainians since people in Ukraine don't know English.
However, the visa of some of the Ukrainian tourists is ending by March 28.