Pingalwara
This was a remarkable place, and the story behind it is even more compelling. Pingalwara's formation was sparked in 1934 by Bhagat Puran Singh Ji in Amritsar, Punjab.
18 November 2006
For over 14 years, Bhagat Puran Singh devoted himself to caring for an abandoned child with severe disabilities, often carrying him on his back. The Partition of Punjab in 1947, which ultimately led to the creation of Pakistan, was a time of unimaginable suffering and upheaval. Millions of families were forced to leave everything behind in Pakistan to seek safety in India. My own grandparents experienced this harrowing journey, surviving the ordeal but tragically losing many of their children along the way. It was a profoundly traumatic period in India's history, marked by loss and despair.
In 1948, as he began to establish Pingalwara, Bhagat Puran Singh often stood on the streets, reaching out to strangers for help. With the donations he gathered, he provided food, clothing, and medical care for the sick and suffering. He not only fed and bathed those in need but also ensured they received proper medical treatment. No matter the challenges he faced—whether it was war, disease, or harsh weather—his spirit remained unbroken. He consistently rescued those who were stranded, caring for everyone, regardless of their condition.
Pingalwara, which translates to "a house or asylum for the disabled, handicapped, or crippled," opened its doors to a diverse community. It also cares for the elderly, individuals who have experienced abuse, and those suffering from terminal illnesses. The center features a touching museum dedicated to Bhagat Puran Singh, showcasing photographs from his early life and simple belongings. His legacy is a beautiful tapestry woven with compassion and hope.
It is said that "...Pingalwara is full of legends that would never make the newspapers—success stories about those saved from garbage bins in their infancy, girls mistreated and abandoned by their families, and mentally challenged adults who would otherwise face a life in harsh asylums" (All India Pingalwara Charitable Society).
Bhagat Puran Singh was truly a visionary. At a time when many disregarded critical environmental issues, he tirelessly fought for the preservation of nature. He advocated for reforestation, the conservation of natural resources, and a sustainable lifestyle, urging people to limit their reliance on fossil fuels.
During our visit to Pingalwara, we were warmly welcomed by Dr. Inderjit Kaur, who now carries on Bhagat Puran Singh's noble work. She graciously showed us around the main branch, where living quarters and daily classes provide a nurturing environment for neglected children and women with mental impairments. We also visited the branch on the outskirts of Amritsar, home to a school for underprivileged children and a center offering prosthetics and physical therapy. The dedication of the employees and volunteers was deeply inspiring; they were fully committed to teaching, repairing, building, and providing essential services to those in need.
We felt profoundly moved by their efforts and chose to support their cause with a donation, knowing that any contribution would play a critical role in enhancing the lives of those in need. Pingalwara's work is vital, creating a safe and compassionate space for those who need it most.
Photos
Conjoined twins on all vital organs who can never be separated. Pingalwara Center, Amritsar, Punjab. October 26, 2006.
In 1948, as he began to establish Pingalwara, Bhagat Puran Singh often stood on the streets, reaching out to strangers for help. With the donations he gathered, he provided food, clothing, and medical care for the sick and suffering. He not only fed and bathed those in need but also ensured they received proper medical treatment. No matter the challenges he faced—whether it was war, disease, or harsh weather—his spirit remained unbroken. He consistently rescued those who were stranded, caring for everyone, regardless of their condition.
Pingalwara, which translates to "a house or asylum for the disabled, handicapped, or crippled," opened its doors to a diverse community. It also cares for the elderly, individuals who have experienced abuse, and those suffering from terminal illnesses. The center features a touching museum dedicated to Bhagat Puran Singh, showcasing photographs from his early life and simple belongings. His legacy is a beautiful tapestry woven with compassion and hope.
It is said that "...Pingalwara is full of legends that would never make the newspapers—success stories about those saved from garbage bins in their infancy, girls mistreated and abandoned by their families, and mentally challenged adults who would otherwise face a life in harsh asylums" (All India Pingalwara Charitable Society).
Bhagat Puran Singh was truly a visionary. At a time when many disregarded critical environmental issues, he tirelessly fought for the preservation of nature. He advocated for reforestation, the conservation of natural resources, and a sustainable lifestyle, urging people to limit their reliance on fossil fuels.
During our visit to Pingalwara, we were warmly welcomed by Dr. Inderjit Kaur, who now carries on Bhagat Puran Singh's noble work. She graciously showed us around the main branch, where living quarters and daily classes provide a nurturing environment for neglected children and women with mental impairments. We also visited the branch on the outskirts of Amritsar, home to a school for underprivileged children and a center offering prosthetics and physical therapy. The dedication of the employees and volunteers was deeply inspiring; they were fully committed to teaching, repairing, building, and providing essential services to those in need.
We felt profoundly moved by their efforts and chose to support their cause with a donation, knowing that any contribution would play a critical role in enhancing the lives of those in need. Pingalwara's work is vital, creating a safe and compassionate space for those who need it most.
Photos
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