Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio program, lauded Chandanki village in Gujarat’s Mehsana district for its unique community kitchen concept. For 15 years, the village has cooked food collectively in a central kitchen, offering a tiffin service for the sick and immobile. This practice not only eases cooking responsibilities but also fosters strong social bonds among residents, promoting a sense of unity and family spirit.
Located near the Bahucharaji pilgrimage site, Chandanki village has embraced communal dining as a way of life, with residents gathering to eat together daily. The Prime Minister highlighted this tradition, emphasizing the values of togetherness and shared living it represents. The younger generation in the village has set up a system to ensure that elders receive nutritious meals without having to worry about cooking, allowing them to maintain independence while staying connected to the community.
Every day, a bell rings at 11 a.m. in Chandanki village, signaling lunchtime for the elders. They convene at the Chandreshwar Mahadev temple, where tables are set up, and meals are served with respect. The atmosphere is described as lively and welcoming, with elders sharing stories and engaging in conversations. This thoughtful system has not only brought joy to the elderly but also instilled a sense of pride in the community for its caring approach towards its members.
Chandanki village’s exceptional social practices and cleanliness have earned it accolades like Nirmal Gram and Tirth Gram in the past. With the Prime Minister acknowledging its community kitchen model, the village is now being hailed as an inspiration for rural communities nationwide.
