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CHHAGANBAPA
CHHAGANBAP A, a respectable, a memorable, a unique person.
Chhaganlal Karamshi Parekh. A commom-man, like you and me,
yet very uncommon. A man with strong will-power, sparkling
intelligence,many virtues, efficiency of high order, and exceptional
determmation. An understanding and sensitive man with a soft-heart,
compassion and foresight.
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Studied
upto matric. But had a commendable command over English. At the
age of 19, he left Rajkot, went to Zaria, Bihar, an area of black
diamonds, to earn his livelihood. His family life had an humble
beginning in a simple house. But later, this very house turned out
to be a temple of virtuous family life. His day used to begin with
a prayer before the sunrise, and would end much after the sunset.
His efficiency, his honesty, and his hardwork, won for him the respect
and love.of one and all, of his seniors and of his subordinates,
of his management and of the people in his contact- including that
of English people. He succeeded and shone like a diamond. Natural
corollary of his success and abilities, was the launching of his
own business.
A keen observer of what was happening around him-at home and outside-he
pondered over it constantly. Analysed it and understood it. The
illiterate and pathetic condition of women in those days, deeply
disturbed him. Charity begins at home. He began with teaching his
wife. He found out time and energy to read and explain an epic like
Ramayan to the women in the neighbourhood. Gradually made them aware
of their downtrodden condition, and gave them guidance and confidence
to liberate themselves to rise.
Chhaganbapa was basically a religious and disciplined man, An efficient
and practieal person. Yet he gained a lot from experience. He learned
to understand human nature. Thus blossomed in him compassion, fellow
feelings and fraternity.
It was a long journey, from 1912 to 1939. By the grace of God, the
balance
sheet of those 27 years was satisfying. He abundantly earned the
love of people around him. Always. all friends and no foes, a Vishwamitra
-a universal friend in the true sense. He was content with the success
and gains of his life. Not a reason to repent for anything. He asked
himself:" Journey so far was satisfactory, but what about the
remaining journey? I have gained a lot from the people, but what
have I given them back? What can I give them?
How?... "
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