Murlidhar Devidas Amte, famously known as Baba Amte was a great leprosy crusader in India. His passing away is a great loss to the nation. Baba Amte had selflessly devoted his life for the welfare and rehabilitation of poor leprosy patients. He has really transformed the forest into a blissful forest which is aptly called Anandwan. Ever caring for the poorest of the poor in the country, Baba Amte dedicated his life and blood for the welfare of daridra narayans. Leprosy disease is not only a medical problem, but a social too. Embracing leprosy patient and living with them is not an easy task. Leprosy affected lot were termed untouchables and ostrasized from the society even in this modern world. Baba Amte came as a helping hand for the unprivileged in the society and became their Messiah.
Magasasay Award winner Baba Amte will be ever remembered in the annals of India history for his great contribution to the society at large. The 40 lakh leprosy cases in India in 1982 has been brought down to less than 1 lakhs today. India today has achieved leprosy elimination status, thanks to the great service and signal role played by Baba Amte.
By honouring the titan of social work, Baba Amte with Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award would have been sanctified. India really missed the great chance.
Our salutations to the great soul of social work. Baba Amte will every remain in the hearts of the daridra narayans.
RE:A Tribute to Baba Amte
by R Balasubramanian on Feb 09, 2008 12:05 PM Permalink
You are right sir. He is the person to be honoured with Bharat Ratna. Though I have heard about this great man and his services I regretr he has not been brought to the limelight like other sundries either by the print or electronic media which is a tragedy to a nation like us. Any way, without any expectations of return or fame, he has tiredlessly worked for the eradication of Hansen's disease which was alarming in our country.
My his soul rest in pease and let either his birth day or departed day be remembered by the nation every year, by an event, without fail. This is the befitting respect we pay to the departed soul for his untired service rendered to humanity, though we did not recognise him during his living.
RE:A Tribute to Baba Amte
by murali balak on Feb 09, 2008 11:56 AM Permalink
Dr N. B. Iyer, From your message, I came to know more about this great personality. It is true that we miss this real mass leader. My heart felt condolances to the bereaved family members.
RE:A Tribute to Baba Amte
by prathamesh sarmalkar on Feb 09, 2008 12:18 PM Permalink
Dr.Iyer thank you for the total data. I would also like to tell that his wife and children... both of his sons are mbbs supported Baba in every phase of his tribute. When Baba came to Anandvan ... as per his interview i heared live... he had his wife, one son , 2 ill horses and 5 leprosy patients with him. Their family also takes care of the wild animals who are injured and give them also a parental love and I have seen it with my eyes.
RE:A Tribute to Baba Amte
by RAMESH on Feb 09, 2008 12:11 PM Permalink
Friends.
Its a great loss to the nation. Another feather fallen from the hopes of the most deprived of the world.
One year ago during the last week of January, I met him at his home of Anandvan (as part of our development tour to Sevagram,Anandvan & Paunar Ashram) and had a little conversation with greater message.
Remembering forever
My sincere condolences to the family of Anandavan.
