Free care and peaceful living await elderly individuals seeking tranquillity away from urban chaos
MUMBAI – In a remarkable example of Muslim leadership in the country’s social welfare, Dr Jalil Prakar of Mumbai’s Lilavati Hospital has set up an old age home in Takhede village of Mandangad taluka in Maharashtra’s Ratnagiri district.
Milan Old Age Home, the first facility of its kind in the Kokan region, is set to be formally inaugurated by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis later on Thursday (May 15).
The facility offers free accommodation and food to elderly people seeking a peaceful rural life away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Spanning seven acres and constructed to international standards, Milan Old Age Home combines modern amenities with the simplicity and calm of village life. It reflects the Muslim community’s strong commitment to serving society and caring for its elders.
Dr Jalil Prakar, who proudly identifies with his Muslim roots, told Inqilab, “I come from a Muslim family in rural Kokan. My parents, through their dedication and faith, educated us in the city and enabled our success. Despite having all comforts in the urban environment, they longed for the peace and simplicity of village life. This inspired me, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, to create Milan Old Age Home so that elderly Muslims and others desiring a simple, dignified rural life have a place to call home.”
The old age home features 14 cottages accommodating four residents each, and a dormitory for seven to eight elderly people who prefer companionship. In total, it provides free lodging and meals for 75 elderly individuals. Each cottage is equipped with a kitchen, bathroom, beds, fans, air conditioning, and a television set. The grounds are beautifully landscaped with 750 types of flowers and fruit trees, encouraging residents to enjoy nature and socialise in a supportive environment.
“There is also a dedicated caretaker for those who feel lonely,” Dr Prakar added. “While families with means may choose to contribute financially, all services are free of charge to those who need them. This project is built on Islamic principles of charity (Sadaqah) and community care.”
Chief Minister Fadnavis played a pivotal role in the project, helping secure the seven-acre land through local authorities. “The support of the chief minister, as well as local leaders from various political backgrounds, has been invaluable. This shows the respect and cooperation the Muslim community continues to receive in Maharashtra,” Dr Prakar said gratefully.
The inauguration will be attended by a host of prominent political leaders, including Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, MP Narayan Rane, former minister Chhagan Bhujbal, MNS chief Raj Thackeray, state ministers Advocate Ashish Shelar and Uday Samant, BJP spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain, and many others.
The trustees responsible for the home’s management are also prominent Muslims and professionals: Dr Khalil Prakar, Dr Asif Bhojani, Advocate Ullas Naik, and project director Wajahat Khan Deshmukh, who collectively represent the community’s dedication to social service.
Milan Old Age Home stands as a shining example of Muslim philanthropy and leadership, combining faith-driven charity with practical support to offer the elderly dignity, comfort, and peace in their later years.
