Parvez Lakdawala Honoured at British House for Transforming Slums into Homes
Mumbai-based real estate developer Parvez Suleman Lakdawala has been honored with an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Sorbonne of France at the British Parliament. This prestigious award recognizes his significant contributions to real estate and housing infrastructure, particularly in slum redevelopment over the past three decades.
He received the award during the 'Sorbonne International Convention' held at the 'House of Lords' in London, presented by the French higher education institution 'Ecole Supérieure Robert de Sorbonne.' Speaking about the honor, Lakdawala expressed his surprise and gratitude, stating, “I never even dreamt that I would receive such an honor.”
This institution is renowned worldwide for granting degrees based on professional experience. After accepting the honorary degree, Lakdawala emphasized that it was a global success for the slum rehabilitation work he has undertaken through SRA schemes. He has been in the real estate business for 30 years and has completed the construction of 32 buildings so far.
Parvez Lakdawala was born into poverty in a small hutment in Bandra, where conditions in the slums were sub-human, and residents struggled for basic amenities like water. He recalls the filthy settlement outside his house and the poor living conditions. For children living in such circumstances, dreaming big was often considered a luxury.
Despite the challenges, Parvez never let his poverty weaken his resolve to rise above his circumstances. He held onto his education, completing his studies while living in a slum. Many are unaware that the successful businessman is a law graduate. The law provided him with discipline and the knowledge to fight against injustice. He often emphasizes that education is the key to his success.
In 1989, he founded the Grace Group of Companies and began working in the real estate sector. Around 1995, he started working with the Slum Rehabilitation Authority of Mumbai (SRA) to provide highly subsidized apartments to slum dwellers. At that time, few builders were willing to take on such projects. Today, he has completed more than 32 grand buildings in Mumbai, transforming the lives of thousands of families.
Lakdawala's work goes beyond building homes. He has implemented new designs, modern amenities, and innovative concepts to give a new face to the homes of the poor. Earning money was never his sole aim. Having experienced poverty firsthand, he empathizes with the less fortunate. He bears the educational expenses of thousands of poor children, providing hope for families who cannot afford school or college fees. “Allah has given to me so that I can give it back to society,” he often says.
During the Corona lockdown, when the entire country was under lockdown, Parvez Lakdawala was out in the streets helping. Thousands of laborers with their children were walking towards their villages. Parvez arranged for vehicles and buses, transporting more than 3000 people to their homes. He also ensured that the travelers had food and water. For this work, he received appreciation not only from Mumbai but also from states like Rajasthan.
In a city like Mumbai, where owning a home is a luxury, Parvez Lakdawala has helped thousands of families achieve their dream of a decent home. His journey, which began in a 250-square-foot house, now involves building projects worth crores. The most important aspect of his work is the self-respect he has given to the common man. He recalls how people living in slums used to feel ashamed of their addresses. Today, those same people proudly disclose their new addresses, equipped with all modern amenities. Giving them a sense of security and a home they deserve brings him the most joy.
Parvez Lakdawala’s mantra is: “Your intention is more important than your destiny. If your intention is good, God comes to your aid and grants you success.”
