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Chiripal Group Annadan Camp Brings Hope to Dakor

Chiripal Group Annadan Camp ensures free care in Dakor

Continuing its decades-long annual tradition of philanthropy, Chiripal Group, a textile-led diversified conglomerate headquartered in Ahmedabad, recently inaugurated the 31st annual Annadan and Medical Seva Camp at Dakor, Gujarat, on Saturday. Every year, the group organises the Annadan and medical seva camp for devotees taking the Holi-Phagani Poonam pilgrimage at the Ranchhodrai Temple in Dakor.

Dakor is one of Gujarat’s most respected pilgrimage towns. The Ranchhodrai Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, draws lakhs of devotees every year. Holi–Phagani Poonam is one of the biggest days in its calendar. On this full moon day of the Hindu month of Phagun, people believe that offering prayers at Dakor brings peace and blessings to the family. Many devotees walk for several hours, and some even for days, from nearby towns and villages. The long journey is seen as an act of faith and devotion.

This time around, the three-day initiative will continue from Saturday, February 28, till Monday, March 2, at the Devakinandan Vishram Griha in Sihunj village, Kheda district.

Sihunj village lies on one of the common walking routes to Dakor. Over the years, it has become an important halt point for pilgrims. Vishram Grihas, or resting places, play a key role during such yatras. They offer shade, water and a safe place to sit. During Holi–Phagani Poonam, local roads often see a steady flow of walkers, many carrying flags or chanting bhajans. Temporary camps like this one help reduce stress on local health centres and ensure that basic care reaches people on the way.

Every year, thousands of devotees walk long distances to seek the blessings of Thakor Bhagwan Ranchhodrai during Holi–Phagani Poonam. To support their spiritual journey, Chiripal Group’s camp will provide freshly prepared meals, drinking water, basic medical care and essential medicines to all the devotees at no cost.

Annadan, which means the donation of food, holds deep meaning in Indian culture. It is often described as one of the highest forms of charity. Many religious texts say that feeding the hungry is equal to serving God. During large pilgrimages in Gujarat, community kitchens are common, but organised corporate support at this scale is less frequent. Providing safe drinking water is also critical. Late February and early March can be warm in central Gujarat. Long walks in the sun can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion, especially for the elderly and children.

A team of qualified doctors and healthcare volunteers will also be stationed at the site to address fatigue, dehydration and common ailments associated with long-distance walking. Resting facilities and foot-care support will also be available for pilgrims en route to Dakor, through Chiripal Group’s intervention.

Medical experts say that during foot pilgrimages, blisters, muscle cramps and minor injuries are common. Simple steps such as cleaning wounds, applying ointment and giving oral rehydration salts can prevent bigger problems. Many walkers do not carry proper footwear. Foot-care stations help them continue their journey with less pain. Quick medical checks can also identify people who need referral to a hospital. In rural areas, access to immediate healthcare is not always easy. Camps like this fill that gap, even if only for a few days.

The initiative is part of the Chiripal Group’s long-standing community outreach efforts. It reflects a sustained commitment to public welfare in the regions where it operates.

Ahmedabad-based Chiripal Group began as a textile business and has grown into a diversified group with interests in petrochemicals, packaging and other sectors. Over the years, many Gujarat-based companies have taken up social service projects in education, health and rural development. Corporate social responsibility is now guided by Indian law, but for several groups in the state, philanthropy began much before it became mandatory. Long-running initiatives, such as this Dakor camp, show continuity rather than one-time charity.

Mr Ronak Chiripal, Promoter of Chiripal Group, said, “Service to society is a fundamental value of Chiripal Group. Holi–Phagani Poonam holds deep spiritual significance for thousands of families across Gujarat. Through this camp, we aim to ease the journey for devotees by ensuring access to food and basic healthcare. Continuing this tradition year after year is both a responsibility and a privilege for us.”

For many families, the Dakor yatra is not just a religious act but also a shared memory across generations. Grandparents, parents and children often walk together. Volunteers from companies and local communities working side by side create a sense of unity. Employees who join such service camps often describe it as a humbling experience. It allows corporate teams to connect directly with people beyond office spaces and factory floors.

Now in its fourth decade, the Dakor seva camp remains one of the Group’s most enduring grassroots initiatives, bringing together employees, medical professionals and volunteers in collective service.

As thousands continue their journey to Dakor this Holi–Phagani Poonam, the presence of organised support along the route offers not just food and medicine, but reassurance. In moments of fatigue, a glass of water, a simple meal, and a place to rest can make all the difference.