Vidyarthi Samman Samarambh - 2026

About Institution

Established Year 1916

Education is an essential aspect for the upliftment of any society. Long before this country gained independence, when people were not as aware of education, the leaders of our community, with their farsighted vision, made tireless efforts for the promotion of learning, student welfare, and to provide boarding and lodging facilities for rural students pursuing education in the city. On April 20, 1916 (Samvat 1972, Chaitra Vad Tritiya of Vasant Ritu), in the holy land of Porbandar—the birthplace of Shri Krishna's friend Sudamaji in the Barda region of Gujarat—they established an institution: ‘Shri Bardai Brahman Vidyottejak Yuvak Mandal’. We all feel immense pride that this institution has successfully completed 110 years of its journey.

We all know that in the past, most families of the Bardai Brahma Samaj were associated with agriculture and resided in villages. The community leaders of that time were extremely dedicated to elevating the standard of education within the caste. However, as our community members lived in various scattered villages across Porbandar district and adequate transportation facilities were lacking, the leaders used their wisdom and overcame numerous obstacles to establish this institution for community welfare. As a result, countless students from our community stayed here, attained higher education, and enabled many families to achieve prosperity—a matter of immense pride for all of us. Exceptional individuals who stand tall as the pride of the community emerged with the invaluable support of this institution, proving its greatness. Respectable and cultured personalities of our society are indebted to this institution in one way or another. Today, our community stands strong and developed in the Porbandar region. The motto "No Progress Without Education" was gifted by this institution. To realize this motto, many individuals contributed physically, mentally, and financially. It was established with a small contribution of just 10 rupees, a humble start beyond imagination. The current management expresses heartfelt gratitude to those initial donors as well as everyone who contributed financially over the years. The institution will forever remain grateful to all donors.

110 Years

Looking back at the history of this institution, within its campus stands the temple of our revered deity Shri Zundeshwar Mahadev and a small shrine dedicated to our ascetic saint Shri Trikamacharya Bapu. Devoutly worshipped by generations of students, their blessings have yielded renowned doctors, engineers, literary scholars, educationists, chartered accountants, company secretaries, eminent lawyers practicing up to the Supreme Court, and businessmen who demonstrated the true caliber and strength of the Bardai Brahman community to the world. A Bardai Brahman has never lagged behind in any sphere of life and continues to press forward. We firm belief that this forward march toward progress will continue unabated. The grit and spirit of the Bardai Brahman community are well recognized in trade and industry both nationally and internationally. In social, cultural, and educational domains, our community has achieved remarkable milestones on the path of progress. Its heritage and splendor in art, literature, and music are unique and unparalleled. The scope of its involvement in painting, music, literature, social service, education, and cultural activities is vast. Mentioning a few notable talents of our community would not be out of place: we have industrious and philanthropic industrialists and merchants.

We boast eminent literary figures honored with Vishwa Gurjari and Padma Shri awards. We have skilled lawyers successfully advocating up to the High Courts and Supreme Court. Expert doctors specializing in various fields performing successful diagnoses and surgeries. Capable engineers bringing glory not just to our community but to the country worldwide. Numerous bank officers and managers with distinguished careers in the Reserve Bank and nationalized banks. Development officers and insurance agents achieving shining success in life insurance. Poet gems who stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Gujarat's most celebrated poets. Authors, professors, and principals prominent across Gujarat in commerce and accounting literature. Hundreds of our brothers and sisters are among the finest school and college teachers. Chartered Accountants and Company Secretaries also belong to our community. Leaders from our community are equally renowned in the cement and bearing manufacturing industries. The list is endless. Members of our community have achieved success and enhanced honor across various walks of life. On this occasion, we remember and acknowledge the educational contribution of this institution behind all these accomplishments.

The history of this institution is not merely a tale of the past, but a living testimony to our society's consciousness, unity, and firm dedication toward education. Despite limited resources, numerous obstacles, and constraints of time, the farsighted vision with which our ancestors established this institution remains equally relevant and inspiring today. Passing through a long journey of 110 years, the institution has kept its soul, core values, and fundamental objective steadfast—an extraordinary achievement in itself.

With time, individuals, families, society, and institutions undergo transformation. As 110 years have passed since its establishment, current trends such as the migration of community families from villages to cities, improved economic conditions, and enhanced transportation facilities have rendered hostel accommodations less essential. The original purpose for which the institution was founded has evolved with changing circumstances.

To ensure that this institution, which sings the saga of our community's pride, remains standing strong and generates some income for its maintenance and repairs, we are occasionally obliged to rent out the premises. Presenting this reality transparently to the community without hesitation is necessary. The hard truth is that currently, the daily operational expenses of the institution are met primarily through donations received at the Zundeshwar Mahadev Temple and occasional rental income.

Although times have changed, the need for student residential lodging is no longer what it used to be, and activities have become limited, the historical, cultural, and emotional value of this institution remains as profound as ever. Embedded in every brick of this structure are the dreams, sacrifices, and hard work of our ancestors. These walls echo the determination, faith, and success stories of countless students who resided and studied here.

Having limited income today and relying on other sources for maintenance is a bitter reality, but it should not be a cause for despair. This situation calls us toward introspection and revitalization. Through modern thinking, new planning, and community cooperation, this institution can be reactivated and developed into a hub for education, culture, research, social service, and guidance.

On this occasion, we express our heartfelt gratitude to all donors, leaders, managers, and every individual who offered silent support to our community. Through their sacrifice and donations, this institution came into existence and survived. We can never truly repay their debt. However, unity, dedication, and active participation are the only ways to keep their dreams alive.

In conclusion, this institution serves as a bridge between our glorious past and a promising future. If we all collectively accept this responsibility, this institution will surely become a beacon of community progress once again, guiding future generations for years to come. Holding the motto "No Progress Without Education" close to our hearts, let us unite with commitment toward the holistic development of the community and the renewal of this institution.
With warm wishes and Jai Shree Krishna to all......