Rajkot, Gujarat (January 21, 2024): On a momentous Sunday, marked by the seventh Patotsav of the revered Shree Khodaldham Temple, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel laid the foundation stone for the Shri Khodaldham Cancer Hospital and Research Center. Joining virtually in this significant event was Prime Minister Narendra Modi, adding his blessings and highlighting the hospital's potential impact on India's progress.
The ceremony began with a traditional bhoomi pujan ritual, symbolizing the consecration of the sacred land in Paddhari tehsil, Amreli, where the future hospital will stand. In his address, Chief Minister Patel emphasized the divine aspect of this groundbreaking, drawing parallels with the upcoming installation of Lord Ramlala in Ayodhya's grand Ram temple. He lauded Khodaldham's dedication to service, calling it a confluence of "Adishakti and patriotism," as exemplified by the daily hoisting of the national flag at the temple entrance.
Union Health Minister Mansukhbhai Mandaviya, also present at the ceremony, hailed the hospital as a crucial step in India's development journey. He commended Khodaldham's efforts in making quality cancer treatment accessible and affordable, particularly in the fight against lifestyle-induced and addiction-related cancers. He further urged the organization to continue its exemplary work across various domains, fostering a culture of collaborative progress for the whole nation.
State Agriculture Minister Raghavjibhai Patel joined the chorus of praise, acknowledging the hospital's role in fulfilling Khodaldham's mission of serving the Patidar community and beyond. Nareshbhai Patel, the founder of Khodaldham Trust, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to this initiative, envisioned to benefit the entire society.
The event held special significance with the conferment of the "Samaj Ratna Award" upon Union Health Minister Mandaviya. The ceremony was graced by the presence of dignitaries including State Water Supply Minister Kunwarjibhai Bavaliya, Women and Child Welfare Minister Bhanuben Babaria, Assembly Deputy Whip Kaushikbhai Vekaria, MPs Rameshbhai Dhaduk, Mohanbhai Kundaria, and Naranbhai Kachhadia, along with MLAs, social leaders, and members of the Khodaldham Trust.
With a planned completion time of approximately 20 months, the Shri Khodaldham Cancer Hospital and Research Center stands poised to make a significant impact on healthcare in the region and beyond. Its commitment to serving the entire society, coupled with its focus on tackling prevalent health challenges, makes this project a true embodiment of Khodaldham's motto of "Public service is Lord service." The groundbreaking ceremony, marked by the confluence of spiritual dedication and national pride, holds the promise of a healthier and brighter future for all.
