PM Modi Highlights Chandanki Village’s Community Kitchen As A Beacon Of Social Unity

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday cited Chandanki village in Gujarat’s Mehsana district as a noteworthy example of community-driven living during his address on Mann Ki Baat.

He praised the village’s community kitchen, describing it as a reflection of shared values and mutual responsibility.

For the past 15 years, residents of Chandanki have followed a system in which meals for the entire village are prepared at one common place. Instead of cooking separately at home, villagers depend on this shared kitchen. The arrangement also includes a tiffin service for those who are unwell or unable to move around.

The daily practice has reduced the burden of household cooking and brought villagers closer to one another.

According to Prime Minister Modi, the tradition has fostered strong emotional connections and created an atmosphere of unity and care.

Supporting an Ageing Population

Situated about five kilometres from the Bahucharaji pilgrimage centre, Chandanki has a sizeable elderly population. Many younger residents have migrated to other parts of India and abroad for employment and business opportunities, leaving senior citizens behind.

To ensure that elders do not struggle with daily meals, the village’s younger generation jointly developed a system to provide nutritious food with respect.

Each day, around 11 AM, a bell announces lunchtime. Elders then gather at the Chandreshwar Mahadev temple near the village entrance, where meals are served at arranged tables and chairs.

Residents describe the mealtime setting as cheerful and welcoming. Elders dine together, exchange stories, and share their experiences. Some even assist in serving food, which further strengthens the sense of participation and belonging.

Senior citizens in Chandanki now receive meals twice daily, enabling them to live independently while remaining socially connected.

The village has earlier earned honours such as the Nirmal Gram and Tirth Gram awards. With Prime Minister Modi’s mention, Chandanki’s community kitchen is now being seen as an inspiring model for villages across India.

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