New Delhi, February 8: Each date of the year holds its own significance. February 9 is a day dedicated to remembering a great soul who uplifted the marginalized and taught them to live with dignity. This remarkable individual is Baba Amte, whose life exemplifies that when compassion becomes a commitment, it can transform thousands of lives.
Former Governor of Maharashtra, S.M. Krishna, referred to him as a great social reformer, stating that Baba Amte showed people affected by leprosy how to live with self-respect. He transformed service into a movement for rights and dignity, rather than mere charity.
Murli Dhar Devidas Amte was born on December 26, 1914, in Hinganghat village of Wardha district, Maharashtra, into a prosperous landowning family. His father, Devidas Harbaji Amte, worked as a clerk in government service, and the family was financially well-off. Baba Amte’s childhood was akin to that of a prince, enjoying luxuries like sleeping in a golden cradle, eating with silver spoons, and wearing silk clothes.
He received his early education at the Christian Mission School in Nagpur and later studied law at Nagpur University. Although he practiced law for a long time, his life took a different turn after marriage. Along with his wife, Sadhana, he dedicated his life to social service and the welfare of the oppressed.
A pivotal moment in his life occurred when he saw a leprosy patient drenched in heavy rain, with no one willing to help. Baba Amte questioned himself, “What if I were in his place?” Without hesitation, he picked up the patient and took him home. This moment marked his commitment to dedicate his life to serving leprosy patients and working towards their rehabilitation. He resolved to understand the disease and eliminate the social stigma and discrimination associated with it.
In 1949, Baba Amte founded the Maharog Seva Samiti, initiating organized service for leprosy patients. He established several service institutions, such as Somnath and Ashokvan, where thousands received treatment and were empowered to transition from being patients to productive members of society. He believed that dignity and self-reliance were more important than mere charity.
Influenced by Mahatma Gandhi and Vinoba Bhave, Baba Amte traveled across the country to understand the real issues faced by villages. He was also a companion of the immortal martyr Rajguru during the freedom movement but later embraced the path of non-violence after coming into contact with Gandhi. In 1985, he launched the Bharat Jodo Movement, which aimed to strengthen the spirit of unity and raise awareness about environmental conservation.
For his extraordinary contributions to society, he received numerous prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri (1971), Padma Vibhushan (1986), the Ramon Magsaysay Award (1985), the Maharashtra Bhushan Award, the Gandhi Peace Prize, and many other national and international honors.
Baba Amte passed away on February 9, 2008, but his legacy continues to enrich thousands of lives. He taught society that service is not just about assistance; it is about restoring someone’s lost dignity.
My name is Narendra Jijhontiya. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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