(Utkarsh Patel)
It is natural for people to remember late Savjibhai Korat when they see Dr. Prashant Korat working with the same energy and dedication.
Savjibhai Korat was a well-known name among BJP workers in Saurashtra and Gujarat. Popularly known as the “Chhote Sardar of Saurashtra,” his life was dedicated to public service and social welfare. Born on August 6, 1953, in Juna Sankli village of Jetpur taluka in a farmer’s family, Savjibhai displayed leadership qualities and a spirit of service from an early age.
During his college days, he became actively involved in social work and politics and later served as the General Secretary (GS) of P.D. Malaviya College. He was elected as an MLA from the Jetpur Assembly constituency for the first time and was re-elected in 1995. He then served as Minister of State for Roads & Buildings and Panchayat in the governments led by Keshubhai Patel and Suresh Mehta. After being elected for a third term, he carried out remarkable work as a Cabinet Minister in the Roads and Buildings Department.
Savjibhai Korat was known for his fearless, hardworking, and service-oriented personality. Coming from an agricultural background, he understood the problems of ordinary people very well and worked tirelessly to solve them. During his tenure, he often conducted surprise inspections at government offices, circuit houses, and construction sites to take strict action against corruption. His anti-corruption initiatives became widely discussed across Gujarat.
He strongly believed that “work is greater than status” and remained deeply committed to development activities. His contribution in strengthening roads, bridges, and the administration of village panchayats was considered invaluable. Because of his dedication to public service, people of Jetpur and Saurashtra fondly called him “Chhote Sardar.”
Savjibhai gave great importance to public interaction. He regularly visited villages, met people directly, listened to their problems, and worked towards solutions. His active leadership and commitment inspired many young people.
On November 26, 1998, Savjibhai Korat passed away at the young age of 45, sending a wave of grief across Saurashtra. Today, hospitals, bridges, and roads have been named after him in Gujarat. Narendra Modi had also unveiled his statue. Even today, the Shri Savjibhai Korat Trust continues to organize health camps, educational initiatives, and social service activities.
Now, people see the same enthusiasm and dedication in his son, Prashant Korat. Currently serving as the General Secretary of Gujarat BJP, Dr. Prashant Korat is also known for his service-oriented personality. He actively works in health camps, public outreach programs, and organizational activities conducted by the trust.
Like his father, he is considered fearless and hardworking. He continuously strives to understand people’s issues and work toward solutions. His style of functioning also reflects Savjibhai Korat’s anti-corruption and development-focused approach.
Savjibhai Korat’s life stands as a message that true politics lies in genuine public service. Young leaders like Prashant Korat, who are inspired by their father’s ideals and dedicate themselves to serving society, are seen as a proud example of Gujarat’s identity and values.
At a time when Gujarat has received young leadership in figures like Harsh Sanghavi, BJP’s organization has also gained an energetic leader in Prashant Korat, whose active working style continues to inspire the youth of Gujarat.
(The writer is a prominent businessman, social worker and founder of khabarchhe.com)
About The Author
