About Founders

Shree Manubhai Bhatt, Shreemati Geetaben (Alias Annapurnaben) Dave, Shree Dilkhushbhai Diwanji

Main Trustees

Shree Manubhai Premshankar Bhatt

Satyadham, Dekai, Post-Zariya, Tal-Nandod

Born on 15th September 1925 in Viramgam, Gujarat, Shree Manubhai Bhatt came from a respected Brahmin family. His father held a high post at Messers Gill & Co’s Agency, Jamesabad (now in Pakistan).

From a young age, Manubhai actively participated in the Indian freedom movement, taking part in protests and demonstrations against British rule. At the age of 18, he became known as a fearless fighter who challenged British officers in Viramgam. One of his earliest acts of bravery was hoisting the Indian flag on his high school using his sacred Janev in 1938. Also known for his compassion, he once used his college fees to pay for a friend’s medical treatment and even lost his left hand in an accident while rushing to help during a village fire.

After independence, Shree Manubhai devoted himself to social work and rural upliftment, particularly for the tribal and economically disadvantaged communities. Along with his wife, he left home in his early 20s to serve the nation. He continued this lifelong mission until his passing on 16th June 2011.

Shreemati Geetaben (Alias Annapurnaben) Dave

Styadham, Dekai, Post- Zariya

Born on 15th August 1930 in Viramgam, Gujarat, Shrimati Geetaben hailed from a Brahmin family and pursued higher studies, completing a B.A. degree, a remarkable achievement for women of that era.

With her marriage to Shree Manubhai Bhatt, she embraced a life of dedication and simplicity. Known for her strong character, truthfulness and service-oriented nature, she became an equal partner in her husband’s mission. Leaving behind a comfortable lifestyle, she chose to dedicate herself to social service and community welfare.

Her pure-hearted hospitality and openness earned her the affectionate name “Geeta,” symbolizing truth and service. For over six decades, she worked alongside her husband in building the foundation of Satyadham Sarvodaya Sangh, focusing on uplifting underprivileged communities. She passed away on 30th August 2017, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and sacrifice.

Shree Mulakchandbhai Ratilal Shah

Styadham, Rampara, Post- Rajpipla

Shree Mulakchandbhai Ratilal Shah was among the earliest and strongest supporters of the trust. Coming from a respected business family of Ahmedabad, he combined his sense of national duty with a deep commitment to community service. His dedication, humility and willingness to shoulder responsibilities made him a guiding force in the trust’s formative years. He continued contributing actively to its growth and mission for as long as his health permitted, leaving behind an enduring legacy of service and devotion.

Shree Maharaj Haridasji

Ramchandra mandir, Mangrol, Post- Rajpipla

Shree Maharaj Haridasji served as a Trustee of the Garudeshwar Ashram Trust and was also active in politics. He played an important role in guiding and supporting the organization until the late 1970s, when his growing responsibilities in national service demanded much of his time. Despite his political commitments, he remained connected with the trust and continued to support its mission until his last breath, he is remembered with deep respect for his devotion and leadership.

Shree Dilkhushbhai Diwanji

Gandhi, Kativ, Karadi, Dist- Surat

Born on 11th November 1899 in Surat, Gujarat, Shree Dilkhushbhai Diwanji was a man of simplicity, humility and deep patriotism. After completing his studies at the Mumbai National School in 1920, he briefly served as a trainee professor at the National University of Mumbai (now R.D. & S.H. National College).

Despite having the opportunity for a comfortable life in Mumbai, he chose to live in the village of Karadi, Gujarat, where he dedicated himself to India’s freedom struggle and rural development.

On 15th August 1934, he joined the freedom struggle under the guidance of Mahatma Gandhi, participating in the historic Karadi Salt Satyagraha. Even after independence, he continued serving rural communities with principles of simplicity and non-violence. He passed away on 18th July 1991, and his memory is still honored at a chowk in Karadi village.