PC:(THE HINDU
At just 11 years old, Thaaragai Aarathana from Karapakkam, Chennai, is making waves as one of the world’s youngest PADI-certified junior open water divers. With a passion for marine conservation, she dives into the sea two to three days a week to remove plastic waste and protect endangered species like the dugong (sea cow). Inspired by her father, Aravind Tharunsri, a professional scuba diving instructor and environmental activist, Aarathana is on a mission to safeguard the oceans, one clean-up at a time.
Aarathana and Team Swim for Ocean Conservation”
India’s Youngest PADI-Certified Diver: AarathanaChennai-based Aarathana, India’s youngest PADI-certified diver, is a passionate environmental activist advocating for beach and underwater clean-ups to protect marine life. On April 3, Aarathana, her father S.B. Aravind Tharunsri, and seven-year-old volunteer Nishvik swam from Thalaimannar, Sri Lanka, to Dhanushkodi, India, to raise awareness about marine plastic pollution.Inspired by her father, a professional scuba diver and environmentalist, Aarathana began diving at five. Aravind, who fell in love with the ocean during his first dive in the Andamans in 1997, introduced her to water just three days after her birth. By nine months, she was floating, and by two-and-a-half, she was swimming confidently. Aravind, supported by his parents, conducts seminars to educate divers, fisherfolk, and locals on marine conservation.Nishvik, a young environmental enthusiast from Chennai, joined the swim. Despite his age, he actively participates in beach clean-ups and community initiatives, proving that dedication to environmental causes knows no age limit. Together, Aarathana, Aravind, and Nishvik inspire the next generation to protect our oceans.
A Family Legacy of Ocean Love
Aarathana’s love for the sea runs in her family. Her father, Aravind Tharunsri, discovered his passion for marine life during his first dive in the Andamans in 1997. That experience, supported by his parents, led him to become a full-time scuba diving instructor and advocate for environmental conservation. Through seminars and educational sessions with residents, scuba divers, fisherfolk, and social workers, Tharunsri has inspired many—including his daughter—to protect the oceans. Aarathana, growing up surrounded by her father’s dedication, found her calling early, earning her PADI certification and diving headfirst into marine conservation.
Swimming for a Cause
Aarathana’s commitment to the environment goes beyond local clean-ups. On April 3, she, her father, and seven-year-old volunteer Nishvik swam from Thalaimannar in Sri Lanka to Dhanushkodi in India to raise awareness about marine plastic pollution. This remarkable feat was part of her ‘Save the Ocean’ initiative, which also included an 11-hour, 30-minute swim to highlight the urgent need for ocean conservation. Through these efforts, Aarathana has removed over 1,200 kg of plastic waste from beaches and underwater, making a tangible impact on Chennai’s coastal ecosystems.
Inspiring Communities, One Talk at a Time
Despite her young age, Aarathana is a powerful voice for change. Sporting pigtails and a floral frock, she has led over 70 community talks, inspiring both young and old to join her mission of marine conservation. Her enthusiasm and dedication have mobilized communities to take action against plastic pollution and protect marine life. A student who loves sports—scuba diving being her favorite—Aarathana balances her schoolwork with her environmental activism, proving that age is no barrier to making a difference.
A Bright Future for Ocean Conservation
Thaaragai Aarathana is a shining example of how passion and determination can drive meaningful change. As India’s youngest PADI-certified diver, she is not only cleaning up Chennai’s seas but also inspiring others to care for the environment. With her father’s guidance and her unwavering commitment, Aarathana is paving the way for a cleaner, healthier ocean, proving that even the youngest among us can be heroes for our planet.