Special prayers held to mark services by ‘Janta ki Rasoi’

A community kitchen initiative, ‘Janta Ki Rasoi’, which began in 2017 through the philanthropic vision of Anita Som Parkash, wife of former Union Minister of State Som Parkash, marked the completion of eight years of uninterrupted service to the underprivileged in Phagwara.

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Established with the aim of ensuring food security for the economically weaker sections, the initiative provides freshly prepared lunch to approximately 700 people every day, charging a nominal amount of just Rs 10 per meal. This low-cost, high-impact model has drawn praise from all quarters for its consistency, quality and humane approach.

To commemorate this milestone, a special religious congregation was organised to offer prayers and express gratitude to the Almighty. The event also served as an occasion for the community to reaffirm its support for the initiative and pray for its continued success. Several citizens made donations to mark personal celebrations such as birthdays and anniversaries, highlighting the kitchen’s deep social connect with the local population.

Prominent dignitaries and local leaders joined the celebrations to show solidarity with the cause. Among those present were Avtar Mand, former Mayor Arun Khosla, Pankaj Chawla, Paramjit Singh Chachoki, Dev Sharma, Sanju Chail, councillor Bira Ram, Ballu Walia, Naresh Kotrani, Gagan Soni, Sonu Rawalpindi, Rohit Pathak, Jeeta Pandwa, Prabhjeet Pandwa, Vipin Madan, Kush Khosla, Sabi Chak Hakim, Kulvinder Singh Kinda, former councillor Raj Kumar Gupta, Balu Shivpuri, former councillor Jaswinder Kaur, Rajinder Kaur Dabri, Reena Khosla, Vibha and Priya Vermani, among others.

Speaking on the occasion, Anita Som Parkash thanked the community for its unwavering support and emphasised the importance of collective responsibility in addressing hunger and poverty. “This kitchen is not just about feeding people—it’s about dignity, compassion and community participation,” she said.

The sustained operation of Janta Ki Rasoi over the past eight years stands as a testament to the power of community-driven philanthropy and the impact of consistent, small-scale interventions in improving lives. With continued support, the initiative aims to expand its reach and services in the coming years.