Mokshdham Project aimed at building a cremation venue in Chicagoland makes significant headway

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Bensenville, IL.–The General Body Meeting of  Mokshdham (Mokshdham.org) held at the Manav Seva Mandir, November 17, 2024, marked a significant milestone in the nonprofit’s journey to establish a dedicated cremation center in the Chicago metro area.

The meeting was attended by super trustees, directors, and prominent community leaders who have pledged to provide dignified and cost-effective cremation services that respect cultural and religious traditions.

As a 501(c)(13) charitable organization, Mokshdham says it aims to offer affordable cremation services, religious support through qualified priests, and accommodations for over 300 visitors. Future plans include grief counseling and social services, with 24/7 resources available online at Mokshdham.org.

Key updates presented during the meeting highlighted progress on zoning approval, anticipated by January 31, 2025, and advancements in land acquisition, as reported by Dr. Rashmi Patel. Fundraising was emphasized as critical to expediting the project, with Vinod Parikh and Dr. A.J. Patel urging immediate financial support. In a show of generosity, Hari Patel offered his facility for fundraising events and pledged additional donations through his senior member network, while Mr. Nitin Patel announced a fundraising event scheduled for December 14, 2024, at the Rana Ranga Center. The meeting celebrated the extraordinary contributions of new Super Trustees, including Dr. Barai, Rajesh Patel, and Hari Patel, who each donated $25,000. Additional support from Mafat Patel and Ashok Pandya further reflected the community’s shared vision for this transformative project.

Organizers recognize the need for a dedicated cremation center is pressing, particularly for the over 250,000 Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists living in the Chicago metro area, 35% of whom are senior citizens. Cremation, a sacred rite known as Antim Agni-Sanskar, is currently hindered by the lack of appropriate facilities, with existing providers charging exorbitant fees. The demand for cremation services has grown by approximately 30% in recent years, making this project a vital solution for the community.

With zoning approval and land acquisition on track, Mokshdham is poised to make significant strides in fulfilling its mission. Organizers at the meeting underscored the broad support for this initiative.

For more information or to contribute to the fundraising efforts, please contact Dr. Rashmi Patel at 773-592-9501 or Nitin Patel at 847-571-5368.