On the 9th of February, Nitin Gadkari extends tribute to the great social worker Padma Vibhushan Baba Amte on his death anniversary.
Baba Amte, also known as Murlidhar Devidas Amte, was a social activist and reformer from India who dedicated his life to serving the marginalized and underprivileged sections of society. He was born on December 26, 1914, in Hinganghat, a small village in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, and passed away on February 9, 2008, at the age of 93. Baba Amte was a visionary leader who inspired millions with his tireless efforts to improve the lives of the poor and disabled.
Baba Amte’s life journey began as a successful lawyer and wealthy man, but a series of events transformed him into a selfless servant of humanity. In the 1940s, he became acutely aware of the suffering and poverty that surrounded him and decided to devote his life to helping the downtrodden. He sold his property, gave up his law practice, and dedicated himself to working for the betterment of society.
Baba Amte’s most famous project was the Anandwan Ashram, located in the forest of Maharashtra. He established this community for leprosy patients, who were rejected by society and considered outcasts. He treated them with dignity, love, and respect, and provided them with a place to live, work, and heal. Over time, Anandwan became a model for sustainable living, where people with disabilities and leprosy were empowered to lead meaningful lives.
Baba Amte also established several other institutions, including the Lok Biradari Prakalp, a school for children with disabilities, and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA) center, which provides employment opportunities to rural communities. Through these initiatives, Baba Amte touched the lives of countless people and inspired a new generation of activists to continue his work.
Baba Amte’s contributions to society were recognized and honored with numerous awards and accolades, including the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, in 1986. He was also awarded the Templeton Prize, often referred to as the “Nobel Prize for Religion,” in 1990, for his exceptional work in the field of spirituality and social service.
Baba Amte’s legacy continues to inspire people across the world to this day. He remains an icon of hope and compassion, and his life serves as a reminder of the power of love, kindness, and selflessness. Baba Amte’s tireless efforts to improve the lives of the marginalized and underprivileged sections of society will always be remembered, and his message of service to humanity will continue to live on. He died on 9 Feb 2008.
