Inside Gujarat’s Dharmaj: The Indian Village That Houses ₹1,000 Crore in Bank Accounts

Nestled in Gujarat’s Anand district, the small yet prosperous village of Dharmaj has become a shining example of rural wealth, modern development, and global connection. Despite its modest population of around 11,300 residents, this village boasts an extraordinary achievement — over ₹1,000 crore deposited across 11 local bank branches. This incredible figure not only highlights the village’s economic strength but also its reputation as one of India’s most prosperous rural communities.

A Legacy of Global Connection and Local Growth

The story of Dharmaj’s prosperity began over a century ago. Back in 1895, a few ambitious young men from the village ventured abroad in search of better opportunities. They settled across countries like the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and several African nations. While they built successful lives overseas, their hearts and contributions remained tied to their homeland.

The Non-Resident Indian (NRI) community from Dharmaj has been instrumental in funding local infrastructure, education, and public services. In 2007, the village initiated an innovative program to connect overseas residents directly to its development projects. Since then, their regular contributions have helped transform Dharmaj into a model of cleanliness, sustainability, and self-reliance.

A Village That Reflects Urban Comfort

Unlike many traditional villages, Dharmaj looks and functions more like a modern township. Its well-paved roads, underground drainage system (operational since 1972), and a robust waste management network keep the village spotless and pollution-free.

The Surajba Park, one of Dharmaj’s major attractions, offers facilities like swimming pools, boating areas, and beautifully maintained gardens. Even the local cattle herders benefit from the village’s planning — around 50 bighas of land are dedicated to growing fodder, ensuring a steady supply of green feed for livestock throughout the year.

These efforts collectively make Dharmaj not only clean but also eco-friendly and self-sustaining — a rare accomplishment in rural India.

Luxury Meets Simplicity

Walking through Dharmaj, one might be surprised to find luxury cars like BMWs, Mercedes-Benz, and Audis parked along its streets. These vehicles stand as symbols of the village’s remarkable financial growth. The wealth here isn’t limited to personal assets — it’s visible in public amenities, community programs, and the overall lifestyle of its people.

Most families have at least one member settled abroad who regularly sends remittances home, contributing to both domestic comfort and community welfare. This financial inflow has made Dharmaj a banking hub in the region, attracting both investors and business opportunities.

Strong Governance and Community Spirit

Dharmaj’s gram panchayat (village council) is considered one of the most efficient in Gujarat. What sets it apart is the active involvement of overseas residents, who continue to participate in decision-making, donations, and development planning. The local administration focuses on transparency, infrastructure improvement, and the welfare of every family.

Every year, the village hosts the grand “Dharmaj Day”, a homecoming celebration where NRIs return to their roots. The event brings together thousands of families to celebrate unity, culture, and progress — reflecting the deep emotional and financial ties that sustain the village’s success.

A Role Model for Rural India

Dharmaj stands as a symbol of how migration, community unity, and smart planning can together redefine the meaning of rural prosperity. While its wealth is impressive, what truly sets the village apart is its balance between modernity and tradition.

From clean streets and organized infrastructure to global partnerships and financial independence, Dharmaj represents the future of India’s rural transformation — a small village with a global vision and a billion-rupee heartbeat.