A disabled man has been showered with gifts after a photographer captured a snap of him removing plastic waste from a local river.
The astounding shot was captured by Pro Media photographer Nandu Ks, who also works as an engineer in his town of Kerala, India.
As reported by Good News Network and local media outlets, Nandu was walking around his village with a rented camera, in an attempt to capture a story.
After coming to a bridge, Nandu spotted an elderly man in a boat plucking plastic bottles from the river. Pointing his camera, the photographer captured an incredible shot that tells a beautiful story.
The elderly gentleman is N. S. Rajappan, and he has been retrieving plastic waste from the river for years in an effort to earn a meager living, as he was left paralyzed since the age of five after he was struck with polio.
Now he spends his days circulating the waterways around the Vembanad Lake in an effort to keep them free from plastic.
GNN reports that the 69-year-old does not use crutches, and instead drags his legs down to the riverbank of the Meenachil River.
In fact, Rajappan later revealed that he earned just Rs 12 (17 cents) from a boatful of plastic. But he insists that it is enough for a meal, and that he is satisfied doing his part to help keep his local environment clean.
And since Nandu shared his photos and Rajappan's story with the world, the man's life has changed forever.
Not only has Rajappan received support from UN Environment Program chief Erik Solheim and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, but many inspired Indians have also sent gifts to the dedicated villager.
One local businessman gifted Rajappan a brand new motorboat, and plans are even in place to build him a new home.
What's more, one Bangalore-based company has even sent him a heavy-duty motorized wheelchair.
Meanwhile, Nandu has not only received legions of followers thanks to his snap - but he has also had his faith in photography affirmed.
It just goes to show you that no matter who you are or where you live, if you put kindness into the world, you're sure to see some come back.
