About Shri Kantha Jilla
Modi Samaj

Our Roots: Dharmaranya and the Modh Identity

A glimpse of our community's origin is found in the 'Dharmaranya Purana', composed in the 14th–15th century. In ancient times, this region of North Gujarat was known as 'Dharmaranya'. According to legend, after slaying Ravana, Lord Rama performed a yagna on this land to atone for his sin. To protect dharma and trade on this sacred land, the 'Modh' Brahmins and 'Modh' Vaishyas — our ancestors — came into being. The place was known as 'Moherakpur', which in time became 'Modhera'.

During the Chaulukya (Solanki) dynasty (10th–13th century), Modhera became western India's most prosperous centre of trade and religion. All who settled here came to be known as 'Modh'. It was during this same period that the worship of Shri Modheshwari Mata (an incarnation of Mata Parvati) began — she remains our community's Kuldevi to this day.

Historical Migration and the Birth of the 'Modi' Surname

In 1297–1298 CE, the invasion of Alauddin Khilji of the Delhi Sultanate caused heavy damage to Modhera's temples and town. To save their faith, family, and livelihood, our ancestors left Modhera with heavy hearts. Some families moved to Patan–Banaskantha, while our ancestors moved on toward the Sabarmati, Hathmati, and Mahi river regions.

In these 'Kantha' regions of Mahi Kantha and Sabar Kantha (the princely states of Idar, Mansa, Pethapur, and others), our ancestors once again took up the grain and grocery trade. Merchants who supplied grain, oil, and daily provisions came to be called 'Modi' in the local language. Over time, this professional identity became our surname — the 'Modh' of Modhera and the 'Modi' of the trade came together to form the 'Modi Samaj'.

Origin and Historical Background

Nearly 140 years ago, the entire Modi Samaj of Gujarat was one large, organised body known as the 'Panch'. At a historic gathering held at Modhera, in view of the limits of transport and geographical distance, it was unanimously decided to split into two divisions. The area west of Mehsana came to exist as the 'Patanwala Modi Samaj', and the area to the east as 'Shri Kantha Jilla Modi Samaj'.

Early Structure and the Panch System

In its early stage, the samaj was divided into 15 main divisions — Himatnagar, Navagam, Pethapur, Pedhamli, Vijapur, Mansa, Aglod, Ladol, Nardipur, Ilol, Prantij, Sadra, Visnagar, Mehsana, and Soja-Jamla. Through this Panch system, the enormous task of eliminating social ills, framing rules and policies, and amicably resolving disputes continued without pause for 11.5 years.

Reorganisation of the Samaj and a New Direction

After 1946, the Panch system fell inactive for certain reasons. But after Vikram Samvat 2022, more than 100 active members of the samaj took up the task of reorganising it, holding meetings at Bahucharaji and Khedbrahma. It was decided to give every village representation, and new life was breathed into the samaj.

The Formal Establishment of Shri Kantha Jilla Modi Samaj

As a result of the tireless effort of the samaj's leaders and door-to-door personal outreach, the samaj was formally established in November 1975 (Vikram Samvat 2031). The guidance of seven founding pioneer members was invaluable to this establishment.

At the time of establishment, leadership was held through the post of 'Mahamantri' (General Secretary). Shri Ramlal Vitthaldas Modi (first), Dr. Ambalal Nathalal Modi (second), and Shri Natwarlal Amtharam Modi (third) — all three rendered outstanding service in the early years.

Establishment of the Trust and the Journey of Growth

In 1985, with the approval of the Charity Commissioner, the 'Shri Kantha Jilla Modi Samaj Trust' was established. The Trust raised funds and gave momentum to the samaj's development work. Through the combined efforts of many donors, elders, and young volunteers, the samaj has achieved numerous milestones in education, social welfare, and infrastructure development.