Dr Harchand Rai– A Life of Selfless Service, Humanity, and Cultural Legacy
Ali Nawaz Rahimoo
Tharparkar: Dr Harchand Rai Lakhani, a revered Pakistani physician, politician, humanitarian, social worker, and cultural activist of Tharparkar and Sindh, passed away on March 4, 2013, at his residence “Ren Basera” in Umerkot. He was 98.
Born on September 15, 1915, in Taluka Chachro, District Tharparkar, Dr Rai was the son of Girdhari Lal, a distinguished schoolteacher of his time. Dr Rai received his primary education from the government school in New Chhor, a small town in District Umerkot. Though his father aspired for him to become a teacher, it was Dr Jindaram—a renowned physician—who inspired him to pursue a career in medicine.
After completing his medical examination, Dr Rai began his career as a Medical Officer (Anti-Malaria Doctor) and later opened a private clinic in Umerkot to serve the people of his native area.
He practiced medicine for more than 75 years with unmatched dedication, treating countless underprivileged patients free of charge, never demanding fees or prescribing costly medications that they could not afford.
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His life was marked by humility, sincerity, and high moral values—he remained deeply respectful toward others, always standing up to greet visitors, even in his old age.
Dr Rai’s contributions extended far beyond medicine. He founded a Tuberculosis (TB) center in Umerkot, funding it from his personal earnings, and was an active member of several associations, including the TB Association, Family Planning Association, and the Hilal Ahmer Society.
He also served the Rotary Club International and supported numerous students and families in need, often helping them pursue education and professional growth.
A staunch advocate for Sindh’s cultural heritage, Dr Rai played a pivotal role in preserving Thari traditions and antiquities. When the Sindh Government launched the “Sindh Sadiyan Khan” cultural program, he was appointed to the Umerkot sub-committee. Though modest in demeanor, his practical contributions stood out. “You are there for the talks, leave me to show the work,” he once remarked during a committee meeting—a reflection of his action-oriented philosophy.
He curated an impressive collection of cultural artifacts, including jewelry, Thari embroidery, utensils, and old coins.
His stalls at exhibitions in Mirpurkhas and Karachi drew immense admiration from the public and officials alike. Prominent figures such as Cultural Minister Ghulam Mustafa Shah and Maulana Kausar Niazi praised his efforts in showcasing Sindh’s rich heritage. Owing to his vast knowledge and dedication, he was fondly known as the “Encyclopedia of Culture.”
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Dr. Rai also stepped into the political arena with the aim of serving his community. He contested provincial assembly elections in 1970 and 1985. Although unsuccessful in securing a seat, he remained undeterred, even organizing a gratitude rally in Chachro with fellow politician Jam Saqi to thank his supporters.
His political journey included membership in the Town Committee of Umerkot in 1966, 1979, and 1983, and he served as its Chairman in 1983. Under his leadership, Umerkot witnessed development projects including public parks, road networks, and a rural bus stand.
For his exemplary contributions across multiple fields, Dr Harchand Rai Lakhani was the recipient of numerous prestigious awards.
Among them were the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz (2007), Qaid-e-Azam Khidmat-e-Khaliq Award (1994), Nishan-e-Lateef Award, International Voluntary Awards (2006–2008), Baan Beli Award (1998), Rotary Club Award, and many others recognizing his role in health, education, and culture.
Dr. Rai’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the culture he preserved, and the countless souls he healed. A man of rare integrity and compassion, his life remains a beacon of hope and service for generations to come.
He is remembered not only as a great physician and social reformer but as a devoted son of Sindh whose selfless service to humanity remains etched in the heart of the nation.
The article is the writer’s opinion, it may or may not adhere to the organization’s editorial policy.
The writer is a social development professional. He can be contacted on anrahimoo@gmail.com
