← All forms of daan

the giving of blood

Raktadaanरक्तदान

The modern daan that most literally gives of oneself.

Raktadaan is the donation of blood. It is the form of daan that most literally gives of the giver: nothing is bought, nothing is manufactured, and there is no substitute for it anywhere in medicine.

Blood also expires. Red cells last a matter of weeks and platelets only a few days, which means a blood bank cannot stockpile its way to safety — it depends entirely on people choosing to give before anyone knows who will need it. India's need runs to millions of units a year, and shortages are routine rather than exceptional.

It fits the classical definition of daan unusually well. The donor never learns who received it, and the recipient never learns who gave — which is close to gupt daan, giving without the possibility of thanks.

How to do raktadaan today

Here is the direct way to do it on Daan.org.

Donate blood or answer a request

Questions people ask

What is raktadaan?
Raktadaan (रक्तदान) is blood donation — giving blood so that it is available for someone who needs a transfusion.
Why is blood donation considered daan?
It meets the classical definition closely: the giving is complete, nothing is expected in return, and it is usually anonymous — the donor and the recipient never meet.
How often can I donate blood in India?
Healthy adults can usually donate whole blood every three months, subject to a screening check at the donation centre. Daan.org lets you register as a donor and see live requests near you.

Other forms of daan