By Syed Shams Uddin Abdul Sattar Edhi was a beacon of hope, compassion, and
selfless service in a world often divided by wealth, status, and power. Born in
1928 in Bantva, Gujarat (British India), he migrated to Pakistan after Partition
in 1947. It was in this newly formed nation that he embarked on a journey that
would ultimately transform countless lives and earn him the title of the
‘greatest humanitarian’ Pakistan has ever known. Edhi’s life was one of
unparalleled dedication to the welfare of humanity. When he arrived in Pakistan,
he saw immense suffering and destitution. With meager resources but an
unshakable resolve, he set out to make a difference. He started by purchasing a
small room in Karachi, which he converted into a dispensary, providing medical
assistance to the needy. Witnessing the scale of poverty and the lack of
healthcare services, he expanded his work and founded the Edhi Foundation in
1951, which would go on to become the largest and most trusted philanthropic
organization in Pakistan. One of Edhi’s most remarkable achievements was the
establishment of an extensive ambulance network, now known as the world’s
largest volunteer ambulance service. His vision was simple: no one should suffer
or die due to a lack of emergency care. Edhi ambulances became a common sight
across Pakistan, responding to medical emergencies, disasters, and even acts of
terrorism, providing relief.
His humanitarian services were not limited to ambulances. The Edhi Foundation
ran orphanages, shelters for the homeless, hospitals, and morgues, ensuring that
the most vulnerable segments of society received care and dignity. He also
placed jholas (cradles) outside Edhi centers, encouraging people to leave
unwanted newborns instead of abandoning them on the streets. This initiative
saved thousands of lives, especially those of female infants who were often
victims of societal prejudices. Despite his immense contributions, Edhi led a
life of extreme simplicity. He wore a plain, unstitched kurta and often slept on
the floor of his foundation’s office. His wealth, he believed, belonged to the
poor. He never sought luxury, political power, or recognition, remaining deeply
committed to his mission of serving humanity irrespective of race, religion, or
nationality. His philosophy was deeply rooted in the belief that service to
humanity transcends all divisions. He once famously said, “No religion is higher
than humanity.” This ethos guided his actions, and he was known to personally
bathe and shroud unclaimed bodies, arrange burials for those abandoned by their
families, and provide refuge to those society had forsaken.
Despite facing resistance and even threats from extremist elements, Edhi never
wavered in his commitment. His tireless efforts earned him numerous national and
international accolades, including the Lenin Peace Prize and the Ramon Magsaysay
Award. Yet, the greatest recognition he received was the love and reverence of
the people he served. Abdul Sattar Edhi passed away on July 8, 2016, leaving
behind a legacy unparalleled in philanthropy. His funeral, attended by
thousands, was a testament to the lives he touched. To this day, the Edhi
Foundation continues his mission, ensuring that his dream of a just and
compassionate society lives on. Edhi’s story is one of humility, resilience, and
boundless generosity. He was not just a philanthropist but a moral compass for
humanity, showing that true greatness lies not in wealth or power but in the
relentless pursuit of service to others. His life remains an inspiration, a
reminder that even one individual, armed with kindness and an unshakable
resolve, can change the world.
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