The journey of Navjivan began with the vision and determination of Shri Girdharlal Chhotalal Sheth. Born into extreme poverty in pre-independent India, he was forced to give up formal education due to financial hardship. Yet, these challenges only strengthened his resolve and instilled in him a lifelong commitment to social upliftment.

His vision went far beyond building a business. Shri Sheth dedicated himself to causes such as education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, and community welfare. He established and supported schools, colleges, hospitals, dharamshalas, and gaushalas; institutions that continue to foster social equity and harmony.

In 1944, he purchased the New English High School for ₹19,000 from educationist Shri Manilal Mehta, laying the foundation for what would become the Dahod Anaj Mahajan Sarvajanik Education Society in 1948. Today, the trust oversees more than twenty institutions, from kindergarten to PhD programs, transforming education in the region.

He also founded the Urban Hospital Health Foundation & Research Centre (HFRC), providing affordable healthcare not only to the people of Dahod but also to communities in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

Shri Sheth’s approach to philanthropy was simple: lead by example. In his early years, he gave until it hurt; later, giving became second nature. His ability to inspire others was remarkable; he could raise a lakh in donations within a single day for local causes.

His enduring legacy of generosity and social responsibility laid the foundation for Navjivan’s core values. Fittingly, he spent his final days at HFRC, a mission closest to his heart.