Unwilling unseen place

સંપ ત્યાં જંપ❤️
પરિવાર શું છે!
ધરોહર પકડી ને નવકા વહાણ કરે જેની!
મસ્તમગન થઇનેં સેવા કરે સમાજ ની!
જેટલું આપે એટલું જ મેળવે!
છતાય જમીનથી જોડાયેલ રહે.

Vaidehi Shethji Gujarati

Unveiling unseen places: Visiting the Home of a Diamond Merchant with Strong Life Values

When we think of diamond merchants, we often imagine opulence, glittering gems, and high-stakes transactions. However, visiting the home of a diamond merchant who embodies strong life values can reveal a much richer, more nuanced story. Recently, we had the unique opportunity to visit such a household, and it was an experience that left a lasting impression. A Warm Welcome

As we arrived at the elegant yet modest home, We was greeted with warm smiles and genuine hospitality. Their family welcomed us as if we were like a family member. It was clear from the outset that their success hadn’t distanced them from their roots or their values.

A Legacy of Hard Work and Integrity: Our host shared stories of their early days in the diamond trade. Starting with nothing but determination and a willingness to learn, he worked tirelessly, always adhering to principles of honesty and fairness. These values, he explained, were the foundation of his success.  Dholakia family pointed out family photographs and awards, each with a story that emphasized the importance of hard work and integrity. His pride wasn’t in the wealth they had amassed, but in the respect and trust they had earned over the years.

Commitment to Community

The Dholakias are not just successful in business, they are also deeply committed to their community. Mrs. Dholakia, a gracious and articulate woman, spoke passionately about the various community projects they support. From funding local schools to sponsoring healthcare initiatives, the family believes in using their resources to uplift those around them. 

Teaching the Next Generation

One of the most inspiring aspects of my visit was seeing how the Dholakias are instilling their values in their children.

The family holds regular meetings where they discuss and solve the problems/ misunderstandings. 

 The children are encouraged to participate in community service and are taught the value of giving back from a young age.

A Meal to Remember

My visit concluded with a meal that was as nourishing for the soul as it was for the body. Over delicious home-cooked dishes, we shared stories, laughed, and discussed everything from business ethics to the importance of family. It was clear that the Dholakias’ values were not just preached but practiced in every aspect of their lives.

Reflections

Visiting the home of a diamond merchant with strong life values was a profoundly enlightening experience. It challenged my preconceptions and highlighted how success, when built on a foundation of integrity, community, and sustainability, is not just about wealth but about creating a positive impact. The Dholakias’ story is a testament to the fact that true wealth lies in the values we hold and the difference we make in the lives of others.

અનોખી યાત્રા

આ અનુભવની યાત્રા છે અનોખી,

જેમા થશે સંસ્કૃતિ, ઈતિહાસ, પરંપરા અને કુદરતના દર્શન.

આ યાત્રાનો ખલાસી બની દરિયા સમાન અનુભવને પોતાના સમાવી લઉ,

ક્યારેક લાગણીના મોજામાં, તો ક્યારેક શાંત બની તેની ગહેરાઈમાં ખોવાઇ જાઉ.

પ્રકૃતિ છે તો પ્રગતિ છે,

દુનિયાની અનમોલ સંપત્તિ છે.

જન જીવોના  માતૃત્વનું દાઈત્વ તું છે,

તારા વિના અમારુ અસ્તિત્વ શું છે.

અનવિલીંગ અનસીન પ્લેસિસનું પ્રથમ ચરણ છે તું,

તારા આશિર્વાદ લઈ સફરની શરુઆત કરુ હું.

ગોવિંદકાકા ધરની સફર, મારા માટે સંસ્કારની નગરી સમાન થઈ ગઈ.

તેમના વિચારો અને વર્તનમાથી સૃહદભાવની અનમોલ ભેટ મળી ગઈ.

શાલિની મેમ, પ્રિતી મેમ આના નમિત્ત  બન્યા,

તે બદલ આમારો આભાર અને પૈસાનું મૂલ્ય પણ ઓછુ છે.

Unveiling unseen places

Day 1

रहे ना रहे हम महका करेंगे

बन के काली बन के सबा बागे वफ़ा में ………

के जी फार्म, प्रकृति के रंग रूप में मनःशांति मिली। जो  अद्भुत थी।

Day 2

ये तेरा घर ये मेरा घर किसी को देखना हो अगर,

तो पहले आके देखले ढोलकिया परिवार का घर

ढोलकिया परिवार के आदरातिथ्य ने मन प्रफुल्लित हुआ

| गोविंदभाई जी ने जो परिवार में संस्कारों के बीज़ बोए हैं, इसके कारण उनकी छत्र छाया में नए पौधे भी निखरने लगे हैं | उनके परिवार का एक दूसरे के प्रति स्नेह भाव, करुणा और वात्सल्य देखने जैसा था |

हम समाज में रहते हैं ,उससे जितना लेते हैं, उससे अधिक ही हमें समाज को लौटाना भी हैं | सिर्फ़ लेने की भावना नहीं बल्कि देने का भाव भी रखना हैं |

Unveiling Unseen Places

Day 1

On my first day, I took a solitary walk in nature. It was a meditative experience that allowed me to see the familiar surroundings with fresh eyes. The harmony of colors in the flowers, fruits, and leaves struck me deeply. The wind played a gentle melody, causing the plants to sway as if dancing. The cheerful chirping of birds and the delicate fluttering of butterflies added to the serene atmosphere. Though these elements are often present in our everyday lives, this walk made me truly appreciate their beauty and helped me immerse myself fully in the present moment, enjoying the splendor of nature.

Day 2

Our visit to Dholakia Farm was enlightening, showing how values can be passed down through generations. Govind ji’s values are like the roots of a tree, nurturing and sustaining his family. His principles have become the foundation of their home, creating a place of deep belonging and connection. The family is united in their belief that collective strength can overcome any challenge. Govind ji emphasizes that change begins with the individual: “Start by transforming yourself, then extend that change to your family, relatives, and beyond.”

Unveiling Unseen Places

From the moment we stepped off the bus, the positivity was palpable. Not only did the ladies of the house warmly welcome us, but the children also showed genuine hospitality. Despite their considerable wealth, the Dholakia family chose to engage with us openly and share their rich family history, embodying the spirit of “Atithi Devo Bhava” (the guest is God). In a world where even siblings sometimes drift apart, their close-knit relationships with cousins and extended family were refreshing. They extend this same warmth and kindness to their employees, treating them like family and supporting them in various ways—such as organizing collective weddings, aiding during the 2008 diamond mandi crisis, and giving solar panels as Diwali bonuses. My key takeaway is the importance of giving back to society, just as we have been given so much.

Akhil

Unveiling Unforseen Places

Today received an opportunity to visit SRK house Govind Dholakiya. We were warmed welcome by Dholakiya family. We were introduced the rootes of Family and the concept of living life with spreading happiness. Vision is most important thing for any business or life

The social work done by SRK was incredible. I like the way of upbringing concept in their child to face real world situation with rare contact of family to understand the world.

The lines of Govindkaka Chalse, Bhavase, Gamase, Favase and Dodase was the simplest, easy way to live healthy life style.

Unveiling Unseen Places

Visiting the Dholakia family was a remarkable experience. I had never encountered such a large and tightly-knit family before. Their deep sense of unity and unwavering support for one another was truly inspiring. Each family member shared their stories with genuine warmth and joy, creating a heartfelt atmosphere that felt both rare and precious in today’s world. The key takeaway from this trip was a newfound desire to organize a family reunion that goes beyond mere formality. I want to create a gathering where genuine involvement and heartfelt connection are at the forefront, much like the authentic unity and warmth I experienced with the Dholakia family.

Unveiling Unseen Places

Day 1 of life class:

Visiting K.G Farm with a fresh perspective was a truly tranquil experience. Previously, our explorations of K.G Farm were driven by specific objectives, but this time, approaching it with an open mind and no set plans allowed me to fully immerse myself in its beauty. As I wandered among the lush green leaves, vibrant flowers, and ripening fruits, I was captivated by the diverse tapestry of life around me. The experience of strolling along the trail, feeling the cool breeze gently brush against my skin, and embracing the weather in its prime was nothing short of mesmerizing. It was a moment of pure connection with nature, free from distractions and filled with awe. I look forward to discovering more places like K.G Farm, where the simple act of being present can unveil the hidden wonders of the world.

Day 2 of our life class began with a bang! We had the opportunity to visit a place brimming with heritage, culture, legacy, love, and respect: Dholakia Farm, owned by the esteemed Dholakia family and businessman Govind ji Dholakia. Surrounded by lush green trees, we entered a serene and peaceful environment. The people welcomed us with warm smiles and greeted us with folded hands.Our first stop was a sacred place where a ‘Havan’ was being performed, a part of their daily routine. We were then guided to an area displaying their family photo and an ancient chest. I was in awe to learn that their family comprises 1,500 members who gather every year during Navratri. Admiring the beautiful architecture, we moved toward the dining area where breakfast was being prepared. The setup was exquisite, with tea brewed on a natural stove and a variety of authentic Gujarati food awaiting us. We were served with utmost love and encouraged to taste everything. Family members themselves served us with smiles, embodying the principle of ‘અતિથિ દેવો ભવઃ’ (Atithi Devo Bhava – The guest is God).Next, we visited the ‘ગૌશલા’ (gaushala) where we experienced a profound sense of peace while feeding the cows and learned about their organic farming and other sustainable practices. We were then taken on e-cars to their sports grounds, where we observed impressive sports tournament organization and the Geetha Rath.Returning to the main farm, we delved into the long legacy and traditions upheld by the family to train children for real life. The combination of love, care, respect, and holistic training at Dholakia Farm made this visit an unforgettable experience.

Unveiling Unseen Places Day 1&2

What an amazing beginning of Life Class!!

It would be undershoot if I said that we had a kickstart. From the unforeseen changes of bringing the life class a day earlier to coming out after meeting Dholakiya family and learning about their values and culture, was an amazing experience.

On day 1 we visited KG Farm, only this time it wasn’t with our students but for unveiling the place itself. Although we had seen KG Farm many a times before but this was a different experience because we explored the KG Farm on our own and observed the nature via a lens we hadn’t before. The uncountable species of butterflies, trees and all its flora and fauna were absolutely stunning. The monsoon winds only enhanced the beauty of the surrounding.

Day 2 began with trip to Dholakia family in Katargam area, and it struck all of us in awe since the moment we entered the gates of the house. A very warm welcome by the family members themselves made us feel special. They escorted us to a temple first where a Pooja was being held which is a ritual they follow everyday. Post the Pooja we saw their ancestral artefacts and a family portrait of over 1500 people clicked in 2019. Delicious Breakfast followed soon and we moved to see different parts of the estate they had. The family members showed us the videos of different functions they hold such as Ramnavmi, Navratri, RakshaBandhan and how it helps connect all the people of the family. We saw how the SRK foundation is working for the people and how Mr. Dholakia and his family truly believes in giving back to society and working towards betterment of all.

The experience of these 2 days was amazing and mind blowing and opened my mind to many aspects that I had not thought before one of which was service in such a direct way.

Visiting these places have truly unveiled something in me which I hope to discover throughout this journey.

1 5 6 7 8 9 63