“Your Potential Defines Your Success, Not Your Background” – Dheeraj Ghate

An Unconventional Felicitation for BJP City President by Children in a Slum Area

Pune: “In life, it is not your background that defines you, but how well you use your potential,” said BJP’s newly reappointed city president Dheeraj Ghate, while addressing a group of enthusiastic children from a slum community in Warje. Ghate, who recently took charge as Pune’s BJP city president for a consecutive term, was given an extraordinary welcome—not with garlands or public hoardings, but through a heartfelt gesture from the city’s underprivileged youth.

This unique felicitation was organized by BJP state spokesperson Sandeep Khardekar and Corporator Manjushree Khardekar, who chose to mark Ghate’s reappointment by distributing sports equipment and storybooks to children from Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Vasahat, Warje.

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An Event Rooted in Purpose, Not Politics

The event took place under the banner of Sevavrat Foundation as part of its ongoing initiative—Vrindavan Educational and Holistic Development Project. The idea was simple yet powerful: instead of putting up congratulatory banners or posters, use the occasion to do something meaningful for the community.

“The goal was never to celebrate with pomp, but to honor Ghate’s reappointment in a way that benefits the society. Giving sports gear and books to these children felt far more impactful,” said Sandeep Khardekar, who also heads the Creative Foundation—an NGO that focuses on socially conscious initiatives.

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Inspiration Drawn from Legends

During his address, Dheeraj Ghate inspired the young audience by recalling the humble beginnings of great historical figures. “It doesn’t matter where you were born or which neighborhood you belong to. What matters is your talent, and how you use it. Look at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Sant Dnyaneshwar—they started young and went on to make monumental contributions to society,” Ghate said, striking a chord with both children and parents in attendance.

He further added, “I attend many programs and events, but this one is truly special. Being welcomed by children, receiving handmade greeting cards, and engaging with their dreams—it’s a memory I’ll always cherish.”

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Children Take Center Stage

The children didn’t just attend—they participated wholeheartedly. From singing welcome songs to presenting a beautiful rendition of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s lullaby, the atmosphere was filled with warmth and cultural pride. They even posed questions to Ghate, turning the event into an interactive dialogue rather than a conventional political function.

The kids presented Ghate with handmade greeting cards and thanked him for the generous donation of cricket bats, balls, basketballs, footballs, and storybooks—items they had specifically requested during a recent visit by Khardekar.

“When I visited this community on my birthday, the children didn’t ask for sweets or cake. They asked for sports equipment. That sincerity moved me. Today, I’m glad we could fulfill that wish with the help of Dheerajji,” shared Manjushree Khardekar, visibly touched by the moment.

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Leaders Who Listen

Also present were Project Coordinator Pradeep Devkule, BJYM Sports Cell President Pratik Khardekar, and several local citizens. The entire event stood as a testament to how political platforms can be used not just for campaigns, but for meaningful community engagement.

Speaking about the philosophy behind the event, Sandeep Khardekar emphasized, “Through Creative Foundation, we’ve always believed in prioritizing social work over political showmanship. True leadership is about listening to people’s needs and responding in real, tangible ways.”

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A Model for Purpose-Driven Politics

This event in Warje is a shining example of how public life and social responsibility can go hand in hand. In a time when political figures are often surrounded by showy celebrations, Dheeraj Ghate’s humble felicitation through the eyes of hopeful children sends a strong message—compassion, community, and care should always lead the way.

With this inspiring gesture, Pune BJP seems to be setting a new precedent—where leadership is measured not just in slogans, but in service.