Manibhai Bhimbhai Desai (27 April 1920 – 14 November 1993) was an Indian social activist, associate of Mahatma Gandhi, and a pioneer of rural development.

It was Patel's duty on his return to the village, to see that a pinch of salt, which had become a symbol of the struggle for independence, was distributed to each household.

Deeply moved by the sight of villagers bowing down as they ate the salt, Manibhai felt at age 10 the call of Mahatma Gandhi.

Since his family wanted him to pursue a career in Engineering, young Manibhai selected Physics and Mathematics for his undergraduate studies.

The young Manibhai gave a pledge to Mahatma Gandhi to devote his life to uplifting of Uruli.

They included regulation of diet, fast, sun-bath, fomentations, steam-bath, mud- bandage, massage and non-injurious indigenous herbs.

[8][9][10][11][12] During this period Manibhai visited numerous countries around the world such as Denmark, Great Britain, United States, Canada and Israel to learn about cattle breeding, farming techniques and to raise funds.

"ManiBhai is a revered figure for people in Village of Dulba, District Patiala, Punjab.His birthday every year is marked by celebrations and by paying respect and thanking him for his work in rural areas.