BRUHUD New York Seniors, through this initiative, continues to honor the legacy of Shashikant Patel by advancing the cause of inclusion and accessibility for those in need, both locally and internationally.

GANDHINAGAR / NEW YORK (TIP): The five-day camp, scheduled from January 27 to 31, 2025, took place at the Mahudi Jain Temple in Mahudi town, Gandhinagar district. The camp aimed to provide prosthetic limbs (Jaipur Foot), calipers, crutches, and wheelchairs to those in need.

Inspired by the humanitarian work of BMVSS and the legacy of her grandfather, Shashikant Patel, his 21-year-old granddaughter, Devika Patel, proposed organizing a free artificial limb fitment camp in Gujarat in his memory.

Devika Patel, along with her parents Kinnari Ben and Ajay Patel, traveled all the way from New York to attend and sponsor the camp. Their presence highlighted the deep commitment to continuing the charitable work initiated by Shashikant Patel, honoring his memory through this impactful initiative.

The camp was officially inaugurated on January 27, 2025, by the Chief Guest, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, former Foreign Secretary and Chief Coordinator of BMVSS. The inauguration was further honored by the presence of Padmabhushan Dr. D. R. Mehta, the 90-year-old ‘young’ founder and Chief Patron of BMVSS, who traveled from Jaipur to attend the event. Other dignitaries present included Prem Bhandari, Chairman of Jaipur Foot USA, and S. J. Haider, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Gujarat Government.

Acknowledgements and Success

In a press release, Jaipur Foot USA extended its gratitude to the Ahmedabad center of BMVSS, led by Vice Chairman Lalit Jain, for their outstanding efforts in organizing the event, including beneficiary registrations. Special thanks were also given to the trustees of the Mahudi Jain Temple for generously providing the venue and supporting planning for the camp.

The five-day event concluded successfully, with over 300 differently-abled individuals receiving prosthetic limbs and other mobility aids, making a lasting impact on their lives.

Founded in 2009 by the late Shashikant Patel, BRUHUD New York Seniors has grown to become one of the largest organizations serving seniors in the tri-state area. The organization hosts a variety of annual events, including health fairs, Independence Day celebrations, Garba, and the Diwali Gala, often attracting between 500 and 800 participants.

Following the passing of its founder, Shashikant Patel, his son Ajay Patel took over leadership as President of BRUHUD, ensuring the continuation of his father’s mission. In addition to his role with BRUHUD, Ajay Patel serves as an office bearer of Jaipur Foot USA, the U.S. branch of Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayta Samiti (BMVSS), one of the largest global organizations dedicated to assisting differently-abled individuals, especially through their renowned prosthetic limb, the “Jaipur Foot.”