The Oasis of Goraj: A Beacon of Service and Transformation
The once unassuming village of Goraj, nestled in Waghodia Taluka of Vadodara district, has remarkably ascended to global prominence. The pervasive essence of humanitarian endeavors, which blossomed on this hallowed ground merely a few years past, has now spread its influence far and wide. One can't help but wonder: who orchestrated such a profound transformation, turning this barren expanse into a veritable pilgrimage site? Indeed, throngs of visitors, both domestic and international, now converge upon this revered locale.
At the heart of this remarkable genesis is Anuben Thakkar, an ascetic, radiant, and profoundly dedicated woman who ignited the spark of service for the marginalized in this once-desolate territory. The thriving institution that has burgeoned from the seeds of her vision, now a cherished destination of spiritual significance, is none other than the Muni Seva Ashram.
In an astonishingly brief period, the Muni Seva Ashram has flourished, its extensive outreach now offering solace to millions worn down by life's relentless trials. The Ashram has significantly impacted numerous vital areas, including education, healthcare, environmental preservation, employment generation, women's empowerment, and childcare, thereby cultivating a profound sense of optimism within the community.
My visit to this remarkable institution was prompted by an invitation from Dr. Anilbhai Shah, an eminent international cardiologist based in America, who is currently spearheading the ambitious Smart Village Movement in India. Setting off one morning, I found the journey towards Goraj village in Vadodara district, where the Ashram is situated, to be utterly captivating. The roads themselves were a delight, flanked by dense trees that painted a truly picturesque landscape.
Upon arriving at the Ashram, one might initially be surprised. Far from the expected bustle of a hospital or a multi-faceted service organization, the pervasive lush greenery and exquisitely designed buildings create an immediate impression of a five-star natural resort. It's truly awe-inspiring to ponder the fortunate moment when the vision for this institution first took root in what was once a desolate jungle, a place that, decades ago, would have instilled fear in anyone passing through.
Until very recently, Waghodia Taluka in Vadodara district remained largely untouched by the currents of development. Now, however, numerous prestigious global companies have established a presence here, creating welcome employment opportunities for the local populace. Yet, merely five decades ago, the very thought of this region's condition would send shivers down one's spine. Travelers were routinely robbed in broad daylight, and contemplating a solitary journey required immense courage. Nevertheless, Anuben Thakkar found herself drawn to this land, arriving in 1978. She built a humble grass hut on the banks of the Dev River, settling down to ignite a fervent dedication to service.
Anuben's birthplace was Anjar in Kutch, but in her formative years, she made Sanand her karma bhoomi, serving as a teacher in an institution inspired by Muni Shri Santbalji. Subsequently, however, she became so deeply immersed in the satsang (spiritual discourse) of Shri Muni Maharaj that she dedicated her entire life to humanitarian service. Destiny, it seems, led Anuben from Anjar to the tribal heartland of Vadodara district.
It's no exaggeration to say that four and a half decades ago, the innocent and simple tribal communities of this area lived as if in a dark age. Society was rife with superstition, harmful customs, a lack of awareness, and numerous other social ills. It was into this environment that Anuben, blessed by Shri Muni Maharaj, commenced her work. She would walk from hut to hut, bathing and cleaning the young children, then placing slates and pens in their hands to teach them how to write. She even took on the formidable task of educating illiterate parents. It was as if she had vowed to uplift the lives of these innocent people and transform the entire region. To realize her grand vision, she established the "Muni Seva Ashram" trust in 1981. Who could have possibly imagined then that, within a mere few years, this institution would attain global acclaim through its dedicated service?
*The Foundation of Service: Education and Healthcare*
Education, being the bedrock of life, inspired AnuBen's initial endeavor: establishing a Gujarati-medium primary school for the underprivileged and tribal children in the vicinity. Yet, merely providing education did not satiate AnuBhen's benevolent spirit. She observed a dire lack of primary healthcare for the ailing. Consequently, she collaborated with the Medical College of M.S. University in Vadodara to establish a local healthcare facility. Initially, a single medical doctor volunteered, visiting the ashram once a week to attend to patients.
Among the physicians offering their services, one young doctor was profoundly moved by AnuBen's selfless dedication. He resolved that if there was any work truly worth doing in life, it was this. This young doctor, none other than Dr. Vikrambhai Patel, the current guiding force of the organization, then joined Anuben, embracing the mantle of service.
Under the aegis of Muni Seva Ashram, AnuBen Thakar sowed the seeds of countless constructive service initiatives, nurturing them with unwavering care. On December 18, 2001, she breathed her last on this earthly realm, embarking on her eternal journey. After AnuBen's passing, Dr. Vikrambhai Patel, who had become synonymous with her ethos of selfless service, poured his very being into the nurturing of Muni Seva Ashram.
*Kailas Cancer Hospital: A Monument to Compassion*
Two decades ago, cancer awareness was virtually non-existent, and treatment options were nowhere to be found in this remote region. Patients suffering from cancer had to travel to Ahmedabad or Mumbai for care, and even Ahmedabad lacked advanced facilities at the time. The exorbitant costs of hospitals in cities like Ahmedabad and Mumbai were simply unaffordable for the common person.
It was with the resolute aim of providing state-of-the-art cancer treatment at an affordable cost, accessible locally, that the foundation stone for the Kailas Cancer Hospital and Research Center was laid in 1998. The journey was fraught with challenges, yet the fragrance of humanity emanating from Muni Seva Ashram had already spread far and wide. Donations poured in from across the nation and abroad, truly a flood, leading to the construction of a modern, advanced hospital.
This hospital, managed by Muni Seva Ashram, has earned its place not just among the best in Gujarat or India, but also as one of Asia's premier healthcare institutions. It is my firm belief that a visit to this 400-bed, high-tech, modern hospital would fundamentally alter anyone's perception of what a hospital can be. This trust-managed facility rivals any private corporate hospital in its modern amenities. The entire hospital is air-conditioned, and a team of over 40 experienced specialist doctors stands ever ready to serve patients.
The sheer cost of the equipment procured for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other serious ailments is astonishing. Among the machines I observed, one was priced at 12 crore, another at 14 crore, and a third at 16 crore rupees.
All this advanced machinery has been imported from abroad for the convenience of patients. Walking through the hospital's corridors, one feels less like they are in a medical facility and more like they have stepped into a five-star hotel. It's truly surprising that there is no hint of medicinal odor anywhere within the hospital. The special patient rooms resemble luxurious hotel suites, and even the general wards are remarkably clean, defying expectations for a trust-managed hospital. The spotless cleanliness and tidiness of the hospital are unparalleled; one could comfortably sit on the floor and dine. The cleaning staff, like diligent soldiers, are tirelessly on duty 24/7, ensuring the hospital remains immaculate.
Impact and Future
To truly grasp the magnitude of patient care provided by this hospital annually, one need only examine a few illuminating figures. The statistics speak volumes: over 100,000 Outpatient Department (OPD) consultations, exceeding 20,000 Inpatient Department (IPD) admissions, more than 17,000 chemotherapy treatments, upwards of 2,000 varied surgical procedures, over 2,000 sessions of radiotherapy, and a remarkable 1,800-plus PET Scans are performed each year. Crucially, these services are rendered at remarkably modest costs, significantly lower than those charged by private hospitals. Moreover, vital medicines are supplied at reduced prices, offering considerable relief from their marked rates. This extends beyond medical provisions to include wholesome meals served to patients and one accompanying relative, while a beautifully arranged guesthouse caters to the needs of distant patients and their families, ensuring their comfort during their stay.
The Muni Seva Ashram's altruistic endeavors extend far beyond the confines of medical care. Its umbrella encompasses Gujarati and English medium schools, vocational training centers, a day-care facility, an old-age home, organic farming ventures, and a revered gaushala, among myriad other activities. A dedicated workforce of approximately 850 employees performs their duties with commendable diligence. Sunilbhai Rehavar, a loyal member of the institution, shared every intricate detail with utmost warmth and sincerity during our visit.
It is, surprisingly, a fact that this institution's daily expenditure runs into millions, sustained entirely by the unwavering support of its esteemed benefactors. By the blessings of Muni Maharaj and Anuben, the flow of donations finds its way, ceaselessly. Despite the constant emergence of novel challenges and difficulties inherent in managing such a vast enterprise, Chairman Dr. Vikrambhai Patel tirelessly dedicates himself, day and night, to ensuring the institution's continued dynamism and vibrancy. His entire team stands united, striving resolutely to propel the organization towards new pinnacles of achievement.
The sheer scale of human welfare activity blossoming in the heart of Gujarat's remote villages is nothing short of colossal! The Muni Seva Ashram is not merely a source of pride for Gujarat, but stands as an institution of profound distinction for the entire nation of India.
Fore more information
https://greenashram.org/
Contact : Sunilbhai Rahevar +9194274 32093
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An article By Ishwar Prajapati
Translation: Pallavi Gupta
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