Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 130th ‘Mann Ki Baat’ broadcast, shared an inspiring story from Gujarat’s Chandanki village near Bechraji. Imagine a place where kitchens in individual homes remain unused, and an entire village thrives on a communal cooking setup. This 15-year-old tradition has residents eating together every day, promoting unparalleled solidarity.
‘Mann Ki Baat’ often uncovers India’s unsung heroes, and Chandanki is a prime example. PM Modi described how this practice evades media attention yet embodies the nation’s core strengths: unity, collaboration, and cultural heritage. The community kitchen buzzes with activity as villagers contribute to prepare meals for everyone.
What started as a simple idea has evolved into a lifeline for the elderly. No one cooks alone; instead, shared meals encourage conversations and bonds. PM Modi detailed the seamless operation: food is cooked centrally, distributed fairly, and savored collectively.
The system’s ingenuity shines in its care for the vulnerable. For those bedridden or ill, a home delivery service ensures warmth reaches every doorstep. This goes beyond nutrition – it’s about weaving a fabric of empathy and support within the community.
As PM Modi concluded, such traditions reinforce our social and family values. Chandanki’s model offers lessons for modern society, proving that collective efforts can create resilient, happy communities. In celebrating this, Modi urged citizens to cherish and replicate such beautiful customs across India.