Founder of Pakistan’s largest charitable network, Abdul Sattar Edhi passed away on this day in 2016

Renowned social worker Abdul Sattar Edhi remains one of the greatest examples of philanthropy and compassion in Pakistan’s history. Even years after his passing, the nation continues to honor and remember his tireless efforts. The welfare work he began still thrives today under the Edhi Foundation, providing thousands of vulnerable people with food, shelter, and medical care, without any discrimination.

Born on February 28, 1928, in Bantwa, Gujarat, India, Edhi migrated to Pakistan with his family during the partition in 1947 and settled in Karachi. In 1951, he began his humanitarian journey by opening a small dispensary. From there, he went on to establish the Edhi Trust, dedicating over 65 years of his life to serving humanity.

Edhi’s work was driven by deep empathy, humility, and a fierce commitment to equality. He served people from all walks of life, regardless of race, religion, or background, and built an institution that continues to operate on the same principles.

Today, the Edhi Foundation runs clinics, orphanages, shelters for the elderly and women, and a wide network of services across the country. Most notably, the foundation operates the world’s largest volunteer ambulance network, a feat that earned Edhi a place in the Guinness World Records.

In 1989, the Government of Pakistan honored him with the Nishan-e-Imtiaz, the country’s highest civilian award, in recognition of his unparalleled services.

Abdul Sattar Edhi passed away on July 8, 2016, in Karachi, at the age of 88 due to kidney failure. He was laid to rest with full state honors, a gesture that reflected the deep respect and admiration he commanded across the nation.

Though Abdul Sattar Edhi is no longer among us, his legacy of selfless service lives on, not just through the institution he built, but in the hearts of millions who continue to be inspired by his life and mission.