Malhar Kalambe

Malhar Kalame, a CA aspirant and young environmentalist from Mumbai, is pursuing a BCom degree. He is the driving force behind the 'Beach Please' initiative. Together with a team of primarily college students who share his passion for the environment, they conduct campaigns and clean-ups every weekend at the Mithi River bank and the mangrove forest near Airoli. 

The initiative began with a few of Malhar's friends cleaning up Dadar Beach and picking up trash and plastic waste left by visitors. This thought created the 'Beach Please,' a movement dedicated to keeping water bodies trash-free. The cause has since gained thousands of volunteers. Malhar believes that it is the responsibility of every Indian to protect the environment and natural resources. 

Malhar's initiative was not without its challenges. He did cold calling and social media promotions to reach people and build the movement. The only assistance he received from the government was excavators and vehicles to collect trash from the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai. Malhar funded the rest of the requirements of the initiative by himself, including providing the necessary equipment, such as gloves, masks, and cleaning tools. 

To date, 'Beach Please' has removed over 1000 tons of waste from seashores. Malhar's dedication caught the attention of the Communications Officer at the Consulate General of Canada in Mumbai, who connected with 'Beach Please.' Malhar's efforts were recognized with the "Volunteer for Change" award by the UN, India, which acknowledges young people working to improve the lives of their communities. Malhar has made a significant difference in the world, and we can all do our part to improve the environment.