Description
Half of Two Paisas: The Extraordinary Mission of Abdul Sattar Edhi and Bilquis Edhi – Lorenza Raponi
Product Details
- Author: Lorenza Raponi
- Contributor: Michele Zanzucchi
- Title: Half of Two Paisas: The Extraordinary Mission of Abdul Sattar Edhi and Bilquis Edhi
- Publisher: Oxford University Press
- Publication Date: 2013
- Format: Paperback
- Pages: 172
- Language: English
- ISBN-13: 9780199068524
- ISBN-10: 0199068526
Overview
Half of Two Paisas tells the inspiring story of Abdul Sattar Edhi and Bilquis Edhi, the founders of the Edhi Foundation, Pakistan’s largest humanitarian organization. Written by Lorenza Raponi with contributions from Michele Zanzucchi, this book provides an intimate look into the extraordinary lives and selfless mission of the Edhis, who dedicated their lives to serving the poor, the sick, and the abandoned.
From humble beginnings to building a nationwide network of ambulances, orphanages, hospitals, and homes for the destitute, Abdul Sattar and Bilquis Edhi’s work has touched millions of lives. The book chronicles their struggles, triumphs, and unwavering commitment to humanitarian service, offering readers a glimpse into their personal and professional challenges.
Through firsthand accounts, interviews, and historical context, Half of Two Paisas captures the humanity, sacrifice, and moral vision that drove Edhi and Bilquis to create one of the world’s most respected charitable organizations.
Key Themes & Insights
✔ The Journey of a Philanthropic Icon: The book traces Abdul Sattar Edhi’s life, from his modest childhood to becoming Pakistan’s greatest humanitarian.
✔ The Role of Bilquis Edhi: Often overlooked, Bilquis Edhi played a pivotal role in expanding the foundation’s impact, particularly in women and children’s welfare.
✔ Building the Edhi Foundation: The challenges, financial struggles, and perseverance behind establishing Pakistan’s largest social welfare network.
✔ A Life of Service: The Edhis’ philosophy of selflessness and compassion, emphasizing their simple lifestyle despite enormous contributions to society.
✔ The Global Impact of Edhi’s Work: How their charity work has been recognized worldwide, and the lessons it offers for future generations.
Why You Should Read This Book
- For Humanitarian & Social Work Enthusiasts: A powerful real-life story of selflessness and service.
- For Those Interested in Pakistani & South Asian History: Explores the sociopolitical context of Pakistan’s welfare system.
- For Inspirational Reading: A moving biography of two individuals who changed the lives of millions.
Interesting Facts
Abdul Sattar Edhi founded Pakistan’s first free ambulance service, which remains the largest volunteer ambulance network in the world.
Despite his enormous influence, Edhi lived in a small two-room home and kept only two sets of clothes.
Bilquis Edhi led efforts to care for abandoned children, setting up cradles outside Edhi centers to provide a safe alternative to infant abandonment.
The Edhi Foundation operates entirely on donations, without government funding, and provides free medical care, shelter, and food to thousands daily.
Edhi was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize multiple times, though he always maintained that his true reward was helping those in need.
Praise for Half of Two Paisas
"A deeply moving tribute to one of the greatest humanitarians of our time." – Dawn Newspaper
"Lorenza Raponi beautifully captures the humility and dedication of the Edhis—this book is a must-read for anyone inspired by acts of kindness." – The Express Tribune
"An engaging and heartfelt account of how two people transformed a nation through compassion." – Oxford University Press Review
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