EMBRACING THE PATH OF SOCIAL WORK

Apna Ghar: A Living Temple of Humanity and Selfless Service

- ASHOK GEHLOT

Social service has always been close to my heart.

During several pre-budget meetings, I had the opportunity to meet Dr BM Bhardwaj and his wife Dr Madhuri Bhardwaj, the founders of Apna Ghar Ashram. I had often heard high praise for their work, and even while serving in the government, efforts were made to model shelter homes for the destitute based on Apna Ghar’s concept. However, I had never had the chance to witness their work firsthand—until March 21, when I finally visited the Apna Ghar Ashram located near Bharatpur.

What I experienced there reminded me of stories from books about Mahatma Gandhi’s compassionate care for leprosy patients. The visit left a deep impression on me. Meeting the Bhardwaj couple and the many dedicated volunteers working there felt nothing short of a blessing.