Angel of Mercy

Abdul Sattar Edhi was a Pakistani philanthropist, social worker, and founder of the Edhi Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides various social services to underprivileged and marginalized sections of society. He is widely regarded as a national hero and a symbol of selflessness and compassion all over the world.

Born on January 1, 1928, in the city of Bantva in the British Raj, Edhi's childhood was marked by poverty and struggle. However, these early experiences instilled in him a deep sense of empathy and a desire to help those in need. At the age of eleven, he experienced the pain and suffering of a world torn apart by religious riots during the partition of India. This harrowing period left a lasting impact on Edhi's psyche and became one of the driving forces behind his lifelong commitment to humanitarian work.

In 1951, at the age of 23, Edhi established the Edhi Foundation with a mission to provide healthcare, social services, and emergency assistance to the destitute and vulnerable. The organization started with a small clinic in Karachi and gradually expanded its scope, covering a wide range of services such as hospitals, clinics, orphanages, and homes for the elderly, mentally ill, and abandoned children. Edhi's philosophy was simple yet profound: "No religion is higher than humanity."

One of Edhi's most notable contributions was the creation of the world's largest volunteer ambulance network. Recognizing the dire need for emergency medical assistance in Pakistan, he started with a single ambulance and soon transformed it into a fleet of over 1,800 ambulances stationed across the country. Today, the Edhi Foundation's ambulance service is available 24/7 and has saved countless lives, offering free medical transportation to those in need.

What made Edhi truly remarkable was his dedication and sacrifice. He lived most of his life in a modest two-room apartment attached to his clinic in Karachi. Despite being offered large donations and luxurious accommodations, he preferred to lead a simple life, wearing traditional clothes and spending his days serving the downtrodden. Edhi believed in donating his own time, money, and resources to his cause, setting an example for others to follow. His selflessness and devotion gained him immense respect and admiration both in Pakistan and around the world.

Throughout his lifetime, Edhi received countless awards and accolades for his remarkable work.

International awards:

Ramon Magsaysay Award for Public Service (1986)

Lenin Peace Prize (1988)

Paul Harris Fellow from Rotatory International Foundation, (1993)

Peace Prize from (USSR former) for services in the Armenian earthquake disaster, (1998)

Largest Voluntary Ambulance Organization of the World – Guinness Book of World Records (2000)

Hamdan Award for Volunteers in Humanitarian Medical Services (2000) UAE

International Balzan Prize (2000) for Humanity, Peace and Brotherhood, Italy

Peace and Harmony Award (Delhi), 2001

Peace Award (Mumbai), 2004

Peace Award (Hyderabad Deccan), 2005

Wolf of Bhogio Peace Award (Italy), 2005

Gandhi Peace Award (Delhi),2007

UNESCO Madan jeet sing Peace Award (Paris),2007

Peace Award Seoul (South Korea), 2008

Honorary Doctorate from the Institute of Business Administration Karachi (2006).

UNESCO-Madanjeet Singh Prize (2009)

Peace Award (London), 2011

National awards:

Silver Jubilee Shield by College of Physicians and Surgeons, Pakistan

The Social Worker of Sub-Continent by Government of Sind, Pakistan, (1989)

Nishan-e-Imtiaz, civil decoration from Government of Pakistan (1989)

Recognition of meritorious services to oppressed humanity during the eighties by Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Government of Pakistan, (1989)

Pakistan Civic Award from the Pakistan Civic Society (1992)

Shield of Honor by Pakistan Army (E & C)

Khidmat Award by Pakistan Academy of Medical Sciences

Human Rights Award by Pakistan Human Rights Society

Beyond his philanthropic accomplishments, Edhi's legacy lies in his belief in the worth and dignity of every human being, regardless of caste, creed, or socioeconomic status. He dedicated his life to helping those who had been abandoned or forgotten by society, offering them a glimmer of hope and a chance at a better life. Edhi believed that true service to humanity requires empathy, compassion, and genuine love for others.

Abdul Sattar Edhi passed away on July 8, 2016, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and empower millions. His work and the values he stood for have become a source of inspiration for generations to come, inspiring countless individuals to take up the mantle of social service. Edhi's impact on Pakistan and the world serves as a testament to the power of one person's unwavering commitment and belief in the transformative potential of compassion.

In conclusion, Abdul Sattar Edhi was a true humanitarian and a shining beacon of hope in a world often overshadowed by darkness. His lifelong commitment to helping others, regardless of their background or circumstances, is a testament to the power of compassion and the ability of one person to make a real difference. Through his work, Edhi demonstrated that the true value of life lies not in what one accumulates, but in how one serves others.