A Tribute to Our Visionary Founder: Late Mr. Bipin Malia
Atmaviswas Vidyalaya (AVV) stands today as a beacon of hope and healing for individuals with mental illness, a testament to the vision, compassion, and unwavering dedication and brain child of its Founder Trustee, Late Mr. Bipin Malia.
A Civil Engineer by profession, Mr. Malia’s illustrious career began with Hindustan Construction Company Ltd., where he contributed to significant projects like the Kosi Dam in Nepal and the Idukki Dam in Kerala. Later, his expertise extended to underground pathway construction at Churchgate Station while working with Dalal Construction Company, before establishing his own successful construction firm specialising in foundation piling for complex structures.
However, it was his personal journey as a father that reshaped his life and purpose. In her early adulthood, his daughter was diagnosed with schizophrenia. Initially, the family sought to manage her care at home. But as her condition progressed, they recognized the need for specialized support. Their search led them to Atmashakti Vidyalaya, a mental health institute in Bangalore run by Canadian priest Father Hank Nunn a pioneer in Mental Health Care.
Under Father Hank’s mentorship and the institute’s compassionate environment, Mr. Malia found not only hope for his daughter but also the inspiration to help others navigating similar challenges. With his wife, Mrs. Mrudulaben Malia, by his side as his pillar of strength, the couple embarked on a mission to bring holistic mental health care to Gujarat.
Mr. Malia dedicated himself wholeheartedly over 25 years of his prime life to this cause. His engineering acumen, combined with a profound sense of purpose and compassion, made him instrumental in every aspect of Atmaviswas Vidyalaya’s establishment and growth. From overseeing daily activities to making critical decisions—whether setting up outpatient services or designing and constructing the long-term care facility—he was personally involved at every stage.
Atmaviswas Vidyalaya opened its doors in 2006 in Valsad, Gujarat, as a professionally managed halfway home offering support to patients from all walks of life. Mr. Malia ensured his team received rigorous training from Atmashakti Vidyalaya, setting the highest standards for care and compassion.
Mr. Malia’s commitment extended far beyond his professional expertise. His humility, warmth, and relentless determination to make a difference were the driving forces behind AVV’s success. Alongside Mrs. Mrudulaben, whose emotional resilience and unwavering support were integral to this journey, he created a haven for those in need—a legacy that continues to touch countless lives.
On June 12, 2024, Mr. Bipin Malia left this world, but his vision lives on in the work of Atmaviswas Vidyalaya. His journey reminds us that a single individual’s compassion, combined with determination, can transform lives and inspire generations.
