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An 85-year-old man came to my clinic, crying. He told me he has three sons, but none of them care for him or send money. He and his paralyzed wife live in a small, dirty room. This is the reality for so many parents who are abandoned by the very children they raised with so much care. That day, I decided to help and support elderly parents like them. " - Dr. Uday Modi
This heart-wrenching story is one of many that fuels Dr. Modi’s unwavering commitment to providing hope, dignity, and care to elderly individuals who have been abandoned by their families.
A Doctor with a Mission: The Birth of Shravan Tiffin Seva
For over two decades, Dr. Uday Modi, an alternative medicine practitioner, has dedicated his life to supporting the elderly in Mumbai. His initiative, Shravan Tiffin Seva, began with a single act of compassion.
Moved by this experience, he started preparing and delivering meals to elderly individuals from his own kitchen, with the unwavering support of his family. What began as a small effort has grown into a lifeline for nearly 200 seniors, providing not just meals but dignity, love, and companionship.
‘It’s not just about filling their stomachs; it’s about filling their hearts’
The cornerstone of Shravan Tiffin Seva is its daily meal service. Each meal is freshly prepared, tailored to the dietary needs of seniors, and delivered with care. The tiffin typically includes six chapatis, dal, rice, and a curry. Sundays are made special with homemade desserts and Gujarati farsan to bring joy to the recipients. These meals are delivered by a dedicated team that takes time to connect with the seniors, offering warmth and companionship alongside nourishment."For many of these elderly individuals, the tiffin service is not just a meal; it’s a reminder that someone still cares for them, that they’re not forgotten. When we include a small dessert or a special dish on Sundays, it’s our way of bringing a little celebration into their lives, something they look forward to in an otherwise lonely routine."- Dr. Uday Modi
‘These aren’t just patients; they’re parents who deserve our love and care’
Shravan Tiffin Seva also addresses the critical healthcare needs of the elderly. Dr. Modi’s initiative provides free medical aid, including routine check-ups, essential medicines, and surgeries. Over the years, the organization has funded over 350 cataract surgeries, knee replacements, and other vital procedures through partnerships with local hospitals."Many of them have spent their entire lives giving everything to their families, only to find themselves abandoned in their old age. They suffer not just from physical ailments but also from emotional pain and neglect. Through this initiative, I want to ensure they have access to the best possible healthcare, no matter their financial circumstances. When we treat them with kindness and dignity, we’re not just healing their bodies — we’re restoring their faith in humanity."- Dr. Uday Modi
Mabapnu Mandir: A Sanctuary for the Elderly
One of Dr. Modi’s most ambitious projects is Mabapnu Mandir, a sanctuary for bedridden seniors requiring round-the-clock care. Located on the outskirts of Mumbai, this state-of-the-art facility will have therapy centers, medical units, an organic vegetable garden, and a cow shelter. Mabapnu Mandir is designed not just for care but for dignity, offering a peaceful environment where the elderly can live their final years in comfort and respect.
"I want these parents to have a place where they feel truly cared for, not just with food but with love and respect. Some of them are not physically or mentally capable of even switching on the lights in their room, let alone using the toilet or eating by themselves. They need all-round care, and they also deserve a quality life. I am doing this for them." - Dr. Uday Modi
How You Can Help
Dr. Modi’s family plays a pivotal role in sustaining the initiative. "My wife is my inspiration, while my kids contribute their pocket money, and together, we’ve made this a family mission," he shares. Despite the financial strain of spending nearly ₹3 lakh every month on meals and services, Dr. Modi remains undeterred, motivated by the unwavering commitment of his family and the community.
Right now, Dr. Modi is urgent need of funds for providing regular meals for elderlies, supplying timely medicines, check ups, ration, and supplies for providing a loving home for these old people — a home like their own son's place where everything is taken care of, not only just food.
Dr. Uday Modi’s work has transformed countless lives, but there’s still much to be done. Your support can help Shravan Tiffin Seva continue its mission to feed, care for, and restore dignity to abandoned parents.
Click here to contribute.
