Neelamben Parikh, the great-granddaughter of Mahatma Gandhi, passed away at the age of 93 in Navsari on Tuesday. A staunch believer in Gandhian principles, she dedicated her life to social welfare, particularly focusing on women’s empowerment and human rights.
Neelamben Parikh was the granddaughter of Harilal Gandhi, the eldest son of Mahatma Gandhi. Born into a lineage of great historical significance, she upheld the legacy of truth, simplicity, and selfless service. She spent her entire life working towards the upliftment of tribal women and marginalized communities.
Throughout her life, Neelamben remained deeply committed to Gandhian values. She was known for her unwavering belief in truth (Vyara) and her dedication to Khadi, embodying the principles of self-reliance and simplicity championed by Gandhi himself.
Neelamben Parikh spent decades working towards the upliftment of tribal women through her organization, Dakshinapatha. This institution provided education and vocational training to help tribal women gain financial independence. Even after retiring three decades ago, her legacy in social service remained impactful, with countless women benefiting from the opportunities she helped create.
Alongside her husband, Yogendrabhai, Neelamben played a pivotal role in developing grassroots initiatives aimed at rural welfare. Her efforts focused on economic sustainability for women and the broader cause of human welfare, ensuring that underprivileged sections of society could lead dignified lives.
Neelamben Parikh spent her later years residing in Navsari with her son, Dr. Sameer Parikh, a practicing ophthalmologist in the city. Despite her advancing age, she remained active in her mission of service and continued to inspire others with her commitment to Gandhian philosophy.
She was also known for her literary contribution, authoring the book Gandhi’s Lost Jewel: Harilal Gandhi, which explored the complex relationship between Mahatma Gandhi and her grandfather. Her work in documenting and preserving Gandhian history has left an invaluable mark.
Neelamben Parikh’s funeral procession was held at 8:00 AM on Wednesday, departing from her residence. Her last rites were performed at Veerwal Crematorium in Navsari, attended by family members, well-wishers, and admirers who came to pay their final respects.
Union Minister of Jal Shakti, C.R. Paatil, expressed his condolences, stating: “The news of the demise of Mahatma Gandhi’s great-granddaughter and Harilal Gandhi’s granddaughter is heartbreaking. A staunch believer in Gandhian ideology, she devoted her life to uplifting society, especially women. Her passing has left a void that will be hard to fill.”
Gujarat’s Cabinet Minister for Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Raghavjibhai Hansrajbhai Patel, also paid tribute, saying, “With the passing of Neelamben Parikh, society has lost a true Gandhian and a dedicated social worker. She selflessly served women’s welfare and humanity throughout her life. May God grant her soul peace and give her family the strength to bear this loss.”
