I’ve always felt a strong pull toward philanthropic work that benefits society—it’s something I can’t ignore. Giving back to the community and finding ways to uplift those around is something really important for me. That’s where Heart to Feet came in, one of the projects closest to my heart. In India, summer temperatures go very high every year, and so many people struggle with the intense heat. Seeing people without shoes walking on those hot streets really struck me, and I knew we had to help. So, we put out a city-wide call for shoe donations, asking people across Baroda to donate any kind of shoe they could spare. With support from volunteers at Maharaja Sayajirao University and SMCSU, we managed to collect and distribute over 11,000 pairs! These shoes found their way to visually impaired children, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and others who really needed them—even reaching Odisha.
During the pandemic, my family and I got involved again, distributing dry rations to support those hit hardest. And when floods recently affected Vadodara, my mom, HH Radhikaraje Gaekwad, and I jumped in to coordinate essential supplies for impacted families.
Women’s health is another cause that means a lot to me. Cervical cancer is the second-biggest cancer affecting women in India, so I’m working to spread awareness by organizing workshops and offering free HPV smear tests at the Maharaja Sayajirao University Health Center. I believe in creating real, accessible support—whether it’s providing essentials or critical health care—so no one in our community is left behind.
Heart To Feet
Princess Padmajaraje Gaekwad, through her visionary initiative, successfully distributed more than 11,000 pairs of footwear.
She extended her support to diverse communities, including the LGBTQi, visually impaired, underprivileged children, senior citizens, artisans in Odissa, flood-affected regions, and more.
Through this noble cause, she aims to extend her reach to even more people/communities.
Let’s continue to contribute and support her mission to make a lasting impact. Together, we can uplift those in need and spread the spirit of giving further.