Dr. Jiggnna Desai, founder of Eknayi Disshaa Gurukul Foundation—a Section 8 registered and ISO-certified organization, incorporated on March 16, 2021—has successfully initiated the first season of the “Varisth Sitare Samman 2024,” a heartfelt event dedicated to honoring senior citizens.
Dr. Desai’s deep-rooted respect and care for elders, which has been with her since childhood, inspired her to create a platform to recognize and celebrate the contributions of seniors. Whether they are retired professionals, homemakers who dedicated their lives to their families, or veterans who served the country, Dr. Desai believes that every senior citizen deserves recognition. Her mission through the NGO is to fight for the rights of seniors and ensure they are treated with dignity, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
She has also appealed to the government to implement special financial support and rights for seniors, ensuring they do not need to work in their later years to meet their basic needs. Dr. Desai advocates for a monthly support system, including food provisions and financial aid, for all seniors, whether poor or middle class.
The event, held on August 21, was a grand success, featuring esteemed Chief guests such as Abhijeet Raneji of Dhadak Kamgar Union ,Great supporter ,Simran Ahuja, the brand ambassador of Gurukul, Dr. Shri Hitteshgurujee, her Guru,& founder of Vidhyaa organisation ,Great supporter ,Very Important too,and Meeta Janiji, founder of Miral foundation& Radiance Iconic Awards,always Been a great Community Supporter ,Partho Ghoshji, Indian film director, Rajul Diwanji, Hetal Joshiji Gujarati actor, Ajay Pandeji, founder of Raajneetiki ki paathshaala and many other notable personalities.
More than 25 senior citizens were honored with the “Varisth Sitare Samman 2024.” Additionally, social workers received the “Samaj Seva Samman,” and distinguished family couples were recognized with the “Parivar Ratna Samman.” Media partners were also felicitated for their contributions.
The event also featured the launch of the book “A Day in the Life of a Hindu Kid,” authored by Milind Makwana, an American Hindu Sevak who dedicated his life to fighting as a Dalit activist. Tragically, he passed away just before delivering his final speech. Milind Makwana, the late brother of Dr. Jiggnna Desai, was a great supporter of Gurukul and his legacy was honored during the event.
Dr. Desai expressed her heartfelt gratitude to her parents, Arvind and Jayshree Makwana, her husband Prashant Desai, her mother-in-law, and her children for their unwavering support. She also extended special thanks to her dedicated Gurukul team, whose efforts made the event possible.
She acknowledged her close friend and key team member, Vibhuti Mehta, for her constant support, along with Varsha Panchal, Asma Lala, Nidhi Iyer, Dipen Kadakia, and Jignesh Soni for their invaluable contributions. Dr. Desai also expressed her appreciation to Ravika Dugal, a celebrity singer, artist, and actor, for her exceptional Singing Performance,hosting the Show and support as part of the Gurukul family.
Dr. Desai expressed special thanks to Apurva for supporting the event as the photography partner, ensuring that every moment was beautifully captured. She also conveyed her deep appreciation to Vijayji, founder of Sree Sandhya Gayatri, for being the food sponsor partner, whose generous contribution played a crucial role in the event’s success.
Lastly, Dr. Desai thanked everyone who supported the NGO’s initiatives and the success of this event.