Gandhinagar (Gujarat) [India], March 03: Mahapurush Smruti Smarak Seva Trust organized a grand memorial and tribute ceremony on the birth centenary of Late Shri Palabhai Narayandas Parmar, former MLA from Kadi, at Uma Samaj Bhavan, Shri Umiya Mataji Sansthan, Sector-12, Gandhinagar. The event was held in the presence of more than 500 members of the community and concluded with deep reverence and pride.
Late Shri Palabhai Narayandas Parmar was not merely a public representative but a pioneer of social harmony, development, and public welfare. He is particularly remembered for bringing electricity for the first time to Mokasan village in Kadi taluka — a historic and transformative step during the 1960s that marked a new era of development for the region. Throughout his tenure, he consistently fought for the rights and upliftment of the poor, marginalized, and underprivileged sections of society.
The programme was chaired by Shri Kirit Solanki (President, Scheduled Castes Morcha, Gujarat Pradesh, Bharatiya Janata Party), and the chief guests included Smt. Darshanaben Vaghela (Minister of State, Government of Gujarat), whose presence added dignity to the occasion.
During the ceremony, individuals from the community who have made significant contributions to society and those who served in key positions and have since retired were felicitated. The event witnessed the presence of Dalit community leaders, dedicated political representatives, heads of social organizations, religious heads of various institutions, office bearers, and a large number of community members.
On the occasion, Shri Kirankumar Hargovindbhai Parikh, grandson of Late Shri Palabhai Narayandas Parmar, expressed his emotions, stating “My grandfather was not just a political leader; he was a leader of people’s hearts. His working style was simple, transparent, and entirely society-centric. He always believed that true service means rising above personal interest and ensuring development reaches the last person in society. Bringing electricity to Mokasan village was not merely about infrastructure; it was about lighting the lamp of progress. Seeing such a large gathering today reassures us that his values and ideals are still alive. I sincerely thank every dignitary and community member who joined us to honour his legacy.”
On this occasion, Lakshmanbhai Rawat, President of Mahapurush Smruti Smarak Seva Trust, said “The life of Late Shri Palabhai Narayandas Parmar is an inspiration for the entire society. In the 1960s, leaders emerged from within the community who worked tirelessly to maintain unity, promote thoughtful leadership, and prioritize public welfare. Even in his physical absence, his values of social harmony continue to live in the village. As a tribute to his vision, villagers have collectively donated two and a half bighas of land for environmental conservation, where 1,111 trees have been planted through a mass plantation drive.”
He further added that the responsibility of carrying forward this legacy has now been undertaken by Shri Kirankumar Hargovindbhai Parikh and his daughter-in-law, Smt. Beena Kirankumar Parikh. They have pledged to continue organizing such meaningful social initiatives in the future and remain committed to serving and supporting the community.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks to all dignitaries and attendees. The centenary celebration not only paid homage to Late Shri Palabhai Narayandas Parmar’s remarkable contributions but also reinforced a collective commitment towards social service, harmony, and environmental responsibility.
