He is all of 7, but it seems actor R Madhavan's son Vedant is already on his way to be a responsible citizen.

The youngster surprised everyone when he refused to accept birthday gifts and instead urged everyone to donate them to animal activist group People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).

"My son refused presents for his birthday and instead asked all his friends to donate to PETA. Now they have sent him a BIG box of goodies," tweeted Madhavan, who is also a PETA supporter.

PETA in turn sent a bag of vegan goodies and a personalised note from PETA founder Ingrid Newkirk along with her book "50 Easy Ways Kids Can Help Animals". Newkirk was wowed by Vedant's compassionate action.