Baba Amte’s Death Anniversary 2024: Know All About Baba Amte

Baba Amte’s death anniversary, observed on February 9th, serves as a poignant reminder of his extraordinary contributions to humanity. His life story continues to inspire generations, reminding us of the transformative power of compassion and social activism. February 9th, 2024, marks the 16th death anniversary of Baba Amte, a towering figure in India’s history of social reform and compassion. As we pause to remember his life and legacy, we are reminded of his profound impact on the lives of the marginalized and oppressed.

Who was Baba Amte?

Murlidhar Devidas Amte, affectionately known as Baba Amte, was a prominent Indian social worker and activist whose profound commitment to the welfare of humanity left an indelible mark on society. Born on December 26, 1914, in Hinganghat, Maharashtra, Baba Amte dedicated his life to the service of the marginalized and oppressed, particularly those afflicted by leprosy.

Baba Amte – Key Details

Baba Amte’s Role in Indian Independence Movement

Baba Amte is hailed as one of the staunchest adherents of Gandhi’s philosophy, often regarded as the final torchbearer of Gandhi’s ideals. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, he actively engaged in the Indian Freedom Movement, lending his voice and actions to the cause of independence. Baba Amte’s commitment to Gandhi’s principles led him to play a pivotal role in various movements orchestrated by the Mahatma.

In 1942, during the Quit India movement, Baba Amte stepped into the forefront of the struggle for independence by offering his legal expertise as a defense lawyer. He represented leaders who had been imprisoned by the British authorities for their involvement in the movement, thereby contributing significantly to the fight against colonial rule.

Contribution of Baba Amte as a Social Activism

Baba Amte is often hailed as the final torchbearer of Mahatma Gandhi’s vision, dedicated to realizing Gandhi’s dream of a unified and compassionate India. He tirelessly worked towards alleviating the suffering of thousands, embodying the spirit of Gandhian principles in his actions.

In 1948, Baba Amte established the Anandwan Ashram, envisioning it as a sanctuary and rehabilitation center for leprosy patients. At Anandwan, patients learned the value of self-sufficiency through diligent labor and were empowered to lead dignified lives. True to his Gandhian beliefs, Baba Amte exclusively wore Khadi clothing woven at Anandwan and consumed the produce cultivated on the ashram’s farms.

Driven by his unwavering commitment to national unity, Baba Amte orchestrated the Bharat Jodo Abhiyan, also known as the Knit India March. This initiative aimed to reignite the spirit of national integration amidst growing divisiveness and communal tensions.

In 1990, Baba Amte temporarily departed from Anandwan to join the Narmada Bachao Andolan led by Medha Patkar. This movement sought to combat the unjust displacement of local communities and environmental degradation caused by the construction of the Sardar Sarovar dam on the Narmada River. Through his participation, Baba Amte demonstrated his steadfast dedication to social justice and environmental preservation.

Baba Amte – Gandhian Ideals and Legacy

Baba Amte’s life exemplified Gandhian principles of simplicity, nonviolence, and self-sufficiency. He believed in the power of collective action and nonviolent resistance in the pursuit of social change. His legacy continues to inspire individuals and movements worldwide, earning him the epithet of the “modern Gandhi of India.”

Baba Amte – Death and Legacy

On February 9, 2008, Baba Amte departed from this world, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, courage, and social transformation. His unwavering dedication to the welfare of the marginalized and oppressed serves as a guiding light for generations to come. As we remember Baba Amte’s life and contributions, let us honor his memory by embracing his values of empathy, justice, and solidarity. In doing so, we ensure that his legacy of compassion continues to illuminate the path towards a more equitable and compassionate society.

Baba Amte – Honoring Titles

• Litt., Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, India
• Litt., 1980: Nagpur University, Nagpur, India
• Krishi Ratna, 1981: Hon. Doctorate, PKV Agricultural University, Akola, Maharashtra, India
• Litt., 1985–86: Pune University, Pune, India
• Desikottama, 1988: Hon. Doctorate, Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan, West Bengal, India
• Mahatma Gandhi had conferred on Amte the title Abhayasadhak (“A Fearless Aspirant”) for his involvement in the Indian independence movement.

Baba Amte – Awards Received

Here are some names of the awards received by Baba Amte:

• Padma Shri (1971)
• Ramon Magsaysay Award (1985)
• Padma Vibhushan (1986)
• United Nations Prize in the Field of Human Rights (1988)
• Dr Ambedkar International Award (1999)
• Gandhi Peace Prize (1999)
• Templeton Prize (1990)
• Right Livelihood Award (1991)
• Maharashtra Bhushan (2004)

Quotes Given by Baba Amte

• “I don’t want to be a great leader; I want to be a man who goes around with a little oil can and when he sees a breakdown, offers his help. To me, the man who does that is greater than any holy man in saffron-coloured robes. The mechanic with the oilcan: that is my ideal in life.”
• “I took up leprosy work not to help anyone, but to overcome that fear in my life. That it worked out good for others was a by-product. But the fact is I did it to overcome fear.”
• “The condition of the tribals is worse than those inflicted with leprosy. Purna swaraj can only be possible when the poorest of the poor is uplifted.”
• “Joy is more infectious than leprosy.”

Important Questions Related to Exams

Q1. When was Baba Amte’s death anniversary observed?
Q2. Where was Baba Amte born?
Q3. What was Baba Amte’s role in the Indian Independence Movement?
Q4. What significant initiative did Baba Amte undertake in 1948?
Q5. Which movement did Baba Amte join in 1990, led by Medha Patkar?

Check your knowledge and try to answer the questions in the comment section.