Imagine a single man starting with nothing but the drive to help others, and eventually building an entire welfare empire that touches millions of lives. That’s the story of Abdul Sattar Edhi, the man who revolutionized social services in Pakistan. But how did a humble beginning lead to the establishment of one of the largest and most impactful charitable organizations in the world?
If you’ve ever been in need of help—or even just seen the iconic Edhi ambulances rushing through the streets—you’ve witnessed the profound legacy of this man. In this blog, we’ll dive into how Edhi’s humanitarian work transformed social services in Pakistan, from health care to education, and why his story remains relevant to this day.
A Simple Man with a Grand Vision
Born in 1928 in Gujarat, India, Abdul Sattar migrated to Pakistan after partition. Unlike others who sought wealth or fame, Edhi’s mission was simple: to serve humanity. He began his journey with a small dispensary in Karachi, offering free medical aid to the needy. But what started as a one-man mission quickly grew into a nationwide movement. The Edhi Foundation was born, and with it, the face of social welfare in Pakistan changed forever.
Did you know that Edhi’s first ambulance was a second-hand van he bought using donations? Today, his foundation operates the largest fleet of ambulances in the world, a testament to the power of small beginnings.
Fun Fact
Revolutionizing Emergency Services
One of his most significant contributions was transforming emergency services in Pakistan. Before the Edhi Foundation, there was no organized emergency response system. If someone needed urgent medical help or if a disaster struck, there were no ambulances to rush to the scene.
Edhi changed that.
He introduced a free ambulance service that operated across the country, available to anyone in need. Today, the Edhi Foundation runs 1,800 ambulances in Pakistan, often being the first to respond in emergencies like accidents, natural disasters, and terrorist attacks.
Shelter for the Homeless: The Edhi Homes
If you’ve ever walked past an Edhi center, you might have seen the sign “Jeevan Bachao” (Save Life). These centers offer shelter, food, and care to people from all walks of life. Whether it’s abandoned children, elderly people with nowhere to go, or women escaping abusive homes, Edhi Homes are a refuge for the most vulnerable in society.
He personally believed in the dignity of every human being, regardless of background, and it is this belief that led him to provide shelter to thousands of people. His motto, “Live and let live,” is evident in every action taken by the Edhi Foundation.
Edhi’s Orphanages and Old Age Homes have given countless people a chance to live with respect and hope. The children raised in Edhi orphanages aren’t just taken care of; they’re given education and skills that allow them to become contributing members of society.
Quick Stat: The Edhi Foundation runs over 17 shelters across Pakistan, helping more than 20,000 people every year.
Healthcare for All: Hospitals and Clinics
Another groundbreaking initiative by him was providing free healthcare to those who couldn’t afford it. The Foundation operates hospitals and mobile clinics that cater to people in rural and urban areas alike. These hospitals offer free medical services, surgeries, and even specialized care for mental health patients.
This was an extraordinary achievement in a country where access to basic health care is often a luxury. Edhi’s commitment to ensuring that even the poorest could receive proper treatment remains one of his most lasting contributions.
“Cradle to Grave” Services
Perhaps one of his most touching innovations is the placement of cradles outside every Edhi center. These cradles are there for babies who have been abandoned by their families—often due to poverty or societal pressure. His message was clear: “Don’t kill your child. Leave them with us.”
This initiative has saved the lives of thousands of children, giving them a chance at life in a loving and caring environment. But he didn’t stop at helping the living. His foundation also provides funeral services for the unclaimed dead, ensuring that every soul, no matter how poor or neglected, is buried with dignity.
A Lifelong Commitment to Humanity
He was often seen driving his ambulances, helping the needy himself, or sitting in his modest office in Karachi. He lived a simple life, never wearing fancy clothes or sitting in luxurious offices, despite his foundation’s immense success. Even after his passing in 2016, his legacy continues to shape social services in Pakistan.
His wife, Bilquis Edhi, played a pivotal role in the foundation’s success and continues to carry the torch forward. Together, they were a powerhouse of love, compassion, and humanity.
Edhi’s Impact on Future Generations
HIs work didn’t just transform social services in Pakistan; it inspired a new generation of humanitarians. His legacy serves as a beacon of hope for those who believe that one person can make a difference. Today, numerous NGOs and charitable organizations in Pakistan model their efforts after the Edhi Foundation, showing that his vision lives on.
You too can be a part of this ongoing legacy. Whether by volunteering your time, donating to the Edhi Foundation, or simply sharing his story, you can contribute to the mission of serving humanity.
Final Thoughts: How Can We Follow Edhi’s Example?
The real lesson from Abdul Sattar’s life is that change begins with small steps. His story is a reminder that no act of kindness is too small. You don’t have to run the largest ambulance service or build orphanages to make a difference. You can start right where you are—help a neighbor, support local charities, or raise awareness about social issues.
What will your contribution be? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to explore other inspiring stories on PKTags.