550 Years of
Madhapar History
From a small settlement in the heart of Kutch to a global diaspora spanning Africa, the UK and beyond. This is our story.
The Mistris of Dhaneti
Members of the Kutch Gurjar Kshatriya community, later known as Mistris, establish roots in the village of Dhaneti. This settlement lays the foundations for what will eventually become Madhapar.
Madhapar is Founded
Madha Kanji Solanki of the KGK Community moves from Dhaneti and lays the foundation of a new village. He names it Madhapar after himself, creating what will grow into one of Asia’s most prosperous villages.
Patel Kanbi Community Arrives
The Patel Kanbi community moves into Madhapar, adding new families and trades to the growing village. This marks the beginning of a multi-community settlement that defines Madhapar’s character.
Navavas: The New Settlement
During the revolt against the British Raj, Madhapar Navavas (the “new settlement”) is established. It represents not just new buildings, but new ideas and a new way of life for the Kanbi community of Kutch.
Every temple built in Madhapar was more than stone and mortar. It was a statement of identity, faith and community pride.
Great Temples Rise
Mistri Mandan Jiwani Chauhan, a railway contractor from the village, funds and builds the Old Thakor Mandir, Shiva Mandir and the Barla Temple. Thaakar Mandir, with its Ram murti, becomes a key social meeting point.
Hanuman Mandir Guards the Gate
Built entirely with handmade materials, Hanuman Mandir stands guard at the entrance to Navavas. It is renovated in 1925 and again in 1975, each time strengthening the spirit of the settlement.
Swaminarayan Mandir
A Swaminarayan sect temple is built in Madhapar, reflecting the diverse religious beliefs (Sanatan and Swaminarayan) within the community. Both traditions continue to thrive side by side.
First Boys’ School Opens
Education takes root in Madhapar with the opening of its first boys’ school, bringing formal learning to the village for the first time and setting the foundation for future generations.
Girls’ School Established
Just 16 years later, Madhapar opens its first girls’ school, a progressive step that signals the community’s commitment to educating all its children, regardless of gender.
Pioneers Set Sail for Africa
Village elders Bhimji Manji Gorasia and Premji Jiva Pindoria become the first to migrate to Africa, pioneering Madhapar’s global diaspora. Their courage opens the door for generations of families to follow.
The 300 Women of Madhapar
A story of extraordinary courage that inspired a nation and a Bollywood film
300 Women Repair the Bhuj Airstrip
During the Indo-Pakistan War, Pakistani air strikes destroy the Bhuj airstrip. 300 women from Madhapar self-volunteer and repair the bomb-damaged runway within 72 hours, allowing Indian Air Force operations to resume. Their bravery becomes legend.
War Memorial Inaugurated
The Government of India inaugurates a war memorial in Bhuj to commemorate the 300 women of Madhapar. Their story is later depicted in the Hindi film Bhuj: The Pride of India, bringing their sacrifice to a global audience.
Gujarat Earthquake
A devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake strikes Kutch on Republic Day, causing massive destruction across the region. Madhapar, like many nearby villages, suffers significant damage. The community pulls together to rebuild.
Community Rebuilding
Leva Patel Vadi and the Savodaya Sports Centre are established for community events and recreation. The crematorium in Navavas is rebuilt to address flooding issues. Apna Ghar (Old People’s Home) is established to care for the elderly.
Madhapar is not just a place on the map. It is an idea carried in the hearts of its people, wherever they live in the world.
Madhapar Families Settle in the UK
Following East African Asians arriving in Britain, families with Madhapar roots establish themselves across the UK. They bring with them the traditions, values and community spirit that define the village.
Kutch Madhapar Community (UK)
The Kutch Madhapar Community (UK) keeps the village’s heritage alive, organising events, connecting families and preserving the stories that make Madhapar extraordinary. From a village in Kutch to a community spanning the globe.
Our Story Continues
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Data partially sourced from Wikipedia