He might be better known as a saint or Kabir of Kutch who with his simple messages in in Kutchi, Gujarati and Hindi imparts spirituality to the downtrodden.

But Mekan Dada's real work had been to save those who lost their way in the Rann of Kutch with the help of his dog, Motia, and his donkey, Lalia.

He is often now remembered as St Christopher of Kutch. His 375-year-old shrine at Dharang village on the edge of the Rann hosts an annual fair every year on Shivratri.

The border district known for its large number of religious fairs, hosts this fair during Shivratri and it attracts not only the colourful Ahir community, but even tourists from other states.

"The fair is not held on his birth or death anniversary but on Shivratri every year as Mekan Dada himself is a great devotee of Lord Shiva. There is an old Shiva temple in the premises too," said Vinod Gala who has complied and published books on Mekan Dada's life. The shrine has a samadhi of his disciples, including the dog and the donkey, and also his brother saint, Patangshah who had embraced Islam. The original name of Mekan was Mokaji while that of his brother was Pantuji

"He was more of a social reformer than a religious person and was always on the move. His has shrines in Saurashtra as well as in adjoining Sind province of Pakistan," said Gala, adding that in those days crossing Rann was common for people residing in Kutch and Sind.

He said that the crossing of the Rann was a big challenge and many died by just losing the way.

"Mekan Dada was moved by this and set up his team of rescuers which included two animals. While Motia would make search of the sufferers dying for want of water, Lalia laden with water bags reached them.

The Rann sufferers were later brought to the shelter house set up by Mekan at Dhrang village and taken care of.