Introduction Abdul Sattar Edhi was a Pakistani philanthropist, humanitarian, and social worker who devoted his life to serving the underprivileged. He founded the Edhi Foundation, which became Pakistan’s largest and most respected charitable organization. His unwavering commitment to humanitarianism earned him the title of the "Angel of Mercy" and made him a symbol of compassion worldwide.
Early Life and Background Abdul Sattar Edhi was born on February 28, 1928, in Bantva, Gujarat, British India. His early life was marked by hardship, but his mother instilled in him a strong sense of empathy and responsibility for others. At a young age, he witnessed the suffering of the sick and destitute, which deeply influenced his desire to help others.
After the partition of India in 1947, Edhi and his family migrated to Karachi, Pakistan. Struggling to make ends meet, he took on various small jobs. However, his passion for humanitarian work led him to establish a small dispensary to provide free medical services to those in need.
The Establishment of Edhi Foundation In 1951, Abdul Sattar Edhi laid the foundation for what would become the Edhi Foundation. He started with a small dispensary in Karachi, but as the need for humanitarian services grew, so did his efforts. He expanded the foundation’s reach to include:
Ambulance Services: The Edhi Foundation operates the largest fleet of ambulances in Pakistan, providing emergency medical assistance across the country.
Orphanages and Homes: Edhi established numerous orphanages, shelters for abandoned women, and homes for the elderly and mentally ill.
Hospitals and Clinics: The foundation runs hospitals and clinics that provide free medical care to the poor.
Rehabilitation Centers: These centers assist drug addicts and homeless individuals in rebuilding their lives.
Emergency Relief Efforts: The foundation has been actively involved in disaster relief efforts, both within Pakistan and internationally.
Challenges and Perseverance Despite his immense contributions, Edhi faced numerous challenges. He received threats from extremist groups, was accused of misusing funds, and was even detained by authorities abroad. However, he remained steadfast in his mission, refusing government funding and relying solely on public donations to keep his foundation running.
Personal Philosophy and Lifestyle Abdul Sattar Edhi lived an incredibly simple life. He owned only a few sets of clothes, resided in a small room adjacent to his foundation’s office, and never took a salary for his services. His humility and selflessness earned him the respect and admiration of millions.
Recognition and Awards Edhi received numerous national and international awards for his humanitarian work, including:
Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Pakistan’s highest civilian award)
Lenin Peace Prize
Gandhi Peace Award
UNESCO-Madanjeet Singh Prize
Honorary Doctorate from Karachi University
Despite these accolades, he always maintained that his greatest reward was the ability to serve humanity.
Legacy and Passing Abdul Sattar Edhi passed away on July 8, 2016, at the age of 88. His funeral was attended by thousands, and he was given a state funeral with full honors. His son, Faisal Edhi, continues his legacy by running the Edhi Foundation.
Edhi’s life serves as a testament to the power of compassion and selfless service. His work continues to inspire people worldwide to contribute to the betterment of society.
Conclusion Abdul Sattar Edhi’s unwavering dedication to humanity transformed the lives of millions. His work in healthcare, emergency services, and social welfare set an example of what one individual can achieve through determination and kindness. His legacy remains an enduring beacon of hope for the underprivileged and a reminder of the impact of selfless service.