80 Years, 2 Bloodlines, 4 Generations, 1 Roof: Gujarat Friends Redefine Family
Two Gujarati families, linked by a friendship dating to 1940 and the Indian freedom struggle, have lived together under one roof for 80 years across four generations
In an era where nuclear families are the norm, where children often choose to live apart from parents, daughters-in-law are hesitant to stay with in-laws, and even brothers prefer separate homes, two friends in Gujarat have set a remarkable example. For the past 80 years, four generations of their families have lived together under one roof, bound not by blood, but by an enduring friendship that continues through their grandchildren today.
At the bungalow 'Maitri' in Bhatar, Gujarat, one witnesses a profound friendship that has grown stronger than blood ties. This remarkable bond has passed from fathers to sons, and now to grandchildren and great-grandchildren, serving as a priceless family treasure. Both families have lived in this house together for eight decades.
The Beginning Of A Lifelong Bond
It all started in 1940 when Bipin Desai and Gunwant Desai met at a government school. Neighbours who travelled to school together, they shared lunches and dreams, unaware that their friendship would one day unite not just them but their descendants.
Their bond was so strong that they shared everything, from farming to running a dairy, and were together connected with Mahatma Gandhi.
Having just completed their matriculation, they actively participated by distributing anti-British pamphlets, organising protests, and enduring imprisonment together.
Life After Independence
Both pursued agricultural studies at Pune Agricultural University. After graduating, they returned to Surat, working together in farming, dairy management, contracting, and other businesses. They first lived in a modest mud house in Chanakyapuri. Despite growing families, they never considered living separately.
In 1970, they built the duplex named 'Maitri', featuring separate rooms for each family but a shared drawing room that became the heart of the home.
Continuing The Legacy
Today, Bipin's son Gautam Desai (70) and Gunwant's son Parimal Desai (63) uphold this legacy. Parimal shares, 'There have been many changes over the years, but Gautam and I still live here with our families. Our sons, Hardik and Rahul, share a wonderful bond too."
What made their fathers' friendship unique was their understanding of each other's differences. Bipin was conservative, while Gunwant was modern in outlook. Gautam says, 'Few knew our fathers were friends; most thought they were brothers. Whenever Parimal needed permission, he'd approach my father instead of his own. Similarly, Gunwant kaka always supported me and talked to my father if I needed anything."
A Bond That Spans Generations
This special relationship continues in the current generation. When Parimal toured Europe, he took Gautam's daughter along. Parimal's son Hardik shares a strong bond with Gautam, Parimal's granddaughter Vyomi often dines with Gautam's daughter-in-law, and Gautam's grandson Dwij enjoys meals with Parimal's family.
Gautam's wife, Janvi, and Parimal's wife, Tripti, have played vital roles in keeping this family bond alive. Tripti says, 'We have cooked together, shopped together, and shared many experiences."
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Gujarat, India, India
First Published:
August 05, 2025, 10:31 IST
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