Following the successful first zoning board public meeting, Mokshdham Cremation Inc. proudly hosted its inaugural fundraising program at the Maharana Pratap Rana Reagan Community Center on December 13, 2024, at 6 PM. The event marked a significant milestone, drawing over 300 donors who demonstrated their commitment to this visionary project.
The evening commenced with a traditional Deep Pragtya (lighting of the lamp) ceremony, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. During the event, Mokshdham honored its esteemed Super Trustees, individuals who contributed $25,000 or more toward the project’s success. The honored Super Trustees included: Mafat Patel, Ashok Pandya, Mahesh Pandya, Rajesh Patel, Dr. Bharat Barai, Nitin Patel, Dr. Rashmi Patel.
The program was further enriched by the presence of distinguished community leaders such as Vinod Parikh, Nirav Patel, Hari Patel, Nimish Jani, Vandana Jhingan, and Barkat Virani.
During their addresses, notable speakers, including Haribhai Patel, Dr. Barai, Nimish Jani, and Vandana Jhingan, underscored the critical need for a dedicated Hindu cremation facility in the Chicagoland area.
Dr. Patel delivered an engaging presentation, accompanied by a slideshow, detailing Mokshdham’s journey from inception to its current progress and highlighting the next steps for the project’s development. Attendees gained insight into the facility’s mission and its profound impact on the community.
In a heartfelt appeal, Hari Patel and Nitin Patel encouraged attendees to extend their support and donations to bring this essential project to fruition.
The event offered not only meaningful insights but also moments of entertainment, featuring a captivating musical performance by Rex Dsouza and Disha Patel, which added a celebratory touch to the evening.
Dr. Barai emphasized the pressing need for a dedicated cremation center, particularly for the over 250,000 Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists residing in the Chicago metro area, 35% of whom are senior citizens. Cremation, a sacred rite known as Antim Agni-Sanskar, has been hindered by the lack of accessible and affordable facilities. Existing options often come with exorbitant fees, while the demand for cremation services has increased by approximately 30% in recent years.
The Importance of Mokshdham Cremation Center, the creation of Mokshdham addresses a deeply rooted cultural and religious need within the community. Cremation, as the final sacred ritual in Hindu tradition, signifies the soul’s liberation (moksha). Without dedicated facilities, families often experience logistical challenges, emotional distress, and financial strain during an already difficult time.
Mokshdham aims to eliminate these challenges by offering a space that respects religious customs while providing affordable and high-quality services. This center will serve as a sanctuary where families can honor their loved ones with dignity and peace.
Beyond fulfilling spiritual needs, Mokshdham will alleviate the practical burden on families. With a growing population of senior citizens, the demand for a dedicated cremation facility is greater than ever. Many current facilities lack appropriate resources or charge prohibitively high fees, making Mokshdham an urgent solution.
Mokshdham also recognizes the need for holistic support. The center will feature accommodations for over 300 visitors, along with grief counseling services, social support, and religious guidance from qualified priests. Additionally, Mokshdham will provide online resources 24/7, ensuring that families have access to support whenever needed.
Mokshdham aims to provide a dignified, affordable cremation service, complemented by religious support from qualified priests and accommodations for over 300 visitors. Future plans include grief counseling, social services, and 24/7 online resources accessible at Mokshdham.org.
The success of the inaugural fundraising program underscores the community’s united effort toward addressing this long-standing need. With continued support, Mokshdham is poised to become a vital resource for families seeking a meaningful and respectful farewell for their loved ones.
(Used with permission)
