Breast Cancer Screening Camp Held At Umiya Mata Temple In Unjha, Gujarat During Mahayagna

December 30, 2019

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Dr.Smita Joshi and Dr.Shukla Raval with Anjali Vijay Rupani (wife of Chief Minister Vijay Rupani), and Vibhavri Dave Miniser of Women & Children’s Welfare, lighting the ceremonial lamp at the start of the breast cancer screening camp during the Dec. 18-22, 2019, Umiya Mata Mahayagna. (Photo: courtesy organizers)

A five-day mahayagna was held at the Umiya Mata Temple of Goddess Umiya, in Unjha in Mahesana District, Gujarat, Dec. 18-22, 2019.

Umiya Mataji is revered as the Mother Goddess of the universe, and the kuldevi of the Kadva Patidar community. The theme for the five days was, “Summation of Spirituality & Science,” and among the numerous activities, there was also a cancer-screening camp held, which organizers say, was “as never seen before.”

The event was held at the historic 1,200 year old temple which was rebuilt a hundred years ago. Devotees believe Maa Umiya takes on the incarnations of three Goddesses, Saraswati, Lakshmi, and Kali, to protect them from evil.

Over the years, the temple has taken on many philanthropic and social service activities, including building hostels for youth, a training center and rest house as well as a Medical Store inaugurated in 2017.

Dr. Smita Joshi greets Chief Minister of Gujarat Vijay Rupani at the Umiya Mata Temple in Unjha, Gujarat, during the breast cancer screening program held at the five-day Mahayagna Dec. 18-22, 2019. (Photo: courtesy organizers)

The “Breast Cancer Screening Mega Camp” was inaugurated with a lamp-lighting ceremony which was performed by First Lady of Gujarat Anjali Vijay Rupani, wife of the Chief Minister Vijay Rupani; as well as Minister for Women and Children’s Welfare Vibhavari Dave; Member of Parliament Sharda Patel; Ex-Member of Parliament Jayashri Patel; Member of the Legislative Assembly Dr.Asha Patel; and Neha Patel, Dr.Smita Joshi, Dr.Shuklaben Raval and Kalpana Patel.

According to organizers, some 15,000 women were examined for breast cancer, and 96 women were found to have a breast lump at the camp.

A press release from organizers said their concept for the breast screening was “highly appreciated” by Gov. Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, and Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel. They thanked Indian Administrative Officer M.S. Patel for supporting the event and making it viable.