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It is likely unimaginable to think that a rural village could have thousands of crores of deposits in its banks situated in its muddy lanes. This is not just a kids tale from bedtime story, but a reality from a village in Gujarat!Far from fitting the typical image of a village, this small settlement in Gujarat’s Kutch region pulses with unexpected financial strength and modern facilities.What makes the village exceptional isn’t a sudden resource windfall, but the lasting relationship its residents maintain with their roots. Over the years, industrious Non‑Resident Indians (NRIs), particularly from the Patel community, have channeled their earned prosperity back into the village, not just for family upkeep, but to strengthen its very foundation.
The richest village in the world!
Madhapar, a village in the Kutch district of Gujarat is often regarded as one of the richest villages globally when measured by bank deposits.
With approximately 7,600 households and nearly 17 bank branches, the villagers collectively have deposited an astounding sum of around ₹5,000 crore. On average, the per-person deposit works out to about ₹15 lakh, according to a CNBCTV18 report.
How did this small village become so financially strong
A significant share of Madhapar’s residents have family members living abroad, in the UK, USA, Canada, Africa, and Gulf nations, many of whom have established successful careers overseas.
Rather than letting go of their roots, these NRIs consistently send money home, investing in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and community wellbeing.
Adding to this connection, an organization called the Madhapar Village Association was established in London in 1968 to keep NRI families connected with their native village. There’s even an office in the village to aid in the smooth communication, coordination, and community projects back home.
Madhapur village has all the facilities
Madhapar today has much more than bank branches. It has schools, colleges, health centres, gardens, lakes, and dams. There’s even a modern gaushala cow shelter, amenities rarely expected in a rural setting.
Village Madhapur (Photo: Kirat @X)
Madhapar’s roots go all the way back to the 12th century, when it was established by the Mistri community of Kutch, skilled artisans known for building temples and historical landmarks throughout Gujarat. Over time, people from various other communities also made Madhapar their home, making it diverse culturally.Beyond money, Madhapar embodies the combination of tradition and vision. Founded centuries ago by the Mistri community of Kutch, known for their craftsmanship and temple-building, the village has retained its cultural roots even as it embraces progress.