Baba Amte Death Anniversary 2024: Murlidhar Devidas Amte, affectionately called ‘Baba Amte’, was a renowned Indian social activist dedicated to helping those afflicted with leprosy. Born on December 26, 1914, in Hinganghat, Maharashtra, he passed away on February 9, 2008. This year marks the 15th anniversary of his death.
Baba Amte led a life of privilege, indulging in activities like hunting, sports, and driving luxurious cars. However, his perspective shifted dramatically when he encountered a person suffering from leprosy. Witnessing the deteriorating condition of the man’s body filled him with profound fear, prompting a profound change in his life’s direction.
Baba Amte Death Anniversary 2024
Baba Amte, known as the last true follower of Mahatma Gandhi, was a revered social activist. He dedicated his life to uplifting patients with Leprosy. Born Murlidhar Devidas Amte, he passed away on February 9, 2008, marking this year as the 16th anniversary of his death.
Baba’s commitment to Gandhi’s principles and his efforts in rehabilitating and empowering those with leprosy are widely admired. As we commemorate his legacy, let’s reflect on Baba’s life and the valuable teachings he left behind.
| Baba Amte Death Anniversary 2024 | |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 26, 1914 |
| Place of Birth | Hinganghat, Wardha, Maharashtra |
| Parents | Devidas Amte (Father) and Laxmibai (Mother) |
| Spouse | Sadhana Guleshastri |
| Children | Dr. Prakash Amte and Dr. Vikas Amte |
| Education | B.A.LL.B from Wardha Law College |
| Religious Views | Hinduism |
| Date of Death | February 9, 2008 |
| Place of Death | Anandwan, Maharashtra |
Baba Amte Role in Indian Independence Movement
Baba Amte is often hailed as one of the last champions of Gandhi’s ideals. He wholeheartedly embraced Gandhi’s teachings and actively joined India’s struggle for independence. Throughout his journey, he stood by Gandhi, participating in numerous pivotal movements. Notably, during the Quit India movement in 1942, he took on the role of a defense lawyer, advocating for imprisoned leaders targeted by British authorities.
Baba Amte Contributions as a Social Activism
Often hailed as the final disciple of Mahatma Gandhi, he dedicated his life to realizing Gandhi’s dream for India by easing the suffering of many. In 1948, he established Anandwan Ashram to support leprosy patients in becoming self-reliant through hard work. Embracing Gandhi’s principles, he exclusively wore Khadi clothes made at Anandwan and consumed produce from the ashram’s farms.
With a strong belief in national unity, he initiated the Knit India March in an effort to revive a sense of togetherness amidst growing division and skepticism.
In 1990, he temporarily departed from Anandwan to stand alongside Medha Patkar’s Narmada Bachao Andolan movement, advocating against the unjust displacement of locals and environmental harm caused by the construction of the Sardar Sarovar dam on the Narmada River.
Baba Amte Awards and Achievements
Check awards and achievements of Murlidhar Devidas Amte in the table below:
| Baba Amte Awards and Achievements | |
|---|---|
| Award | Year |
| Padma Shri | 1971 |
| Ramon Magsaysay Award for Public Service | 1985 |
| Padma Vibhushan | 1986 |
| United Nations Prize in the Field of Human Rights | 1988 |
| Gandhi Peace Prize | 1999 |
| Rashtriya Bhushan | 1978 |
| Jamnalal Bajaj Award | 1979 |
| N.D. Diwan Award | 1980 |
| Ramshastri Award | 1983 |
| Indira Gandhi Memorial Award | 1985 |
| Raja Ram Mohan Roy Award | 1986 |
| Fr. Maschio Platinum Jubilee Award | 1987 |
| G.D. Birla International Award | 1988 |
| Templeton Prize | 1990 |
| Mahadeo Balwant Natu Puraskar | 1991 |
| Adivasi Sewak Award | 1991 |
| Kusumagraj Puraskar | 1991 |
| Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Dalit Mitra Award | 1992 |
| Shri Nemichand Shrishrimal Award | 1994 |
| Fr. Tong Memorial Award | 1995 |
| Kushta Mitra Puraskar | 1995 |
| Bhai Kanhaiya Award | 1997 |
| Manav Sewa Award | 1997 |
| Sarthi Award | 1997 |
| Mahatma Gandhi Charitable Trust Award | 1997 |
| Gruhini Sakhi Sachiv Puraskar | 1997 |
| Kumar Gandharva Puraskar | 1998 |
| Apang Mitra Puraskar | 1998 |
| Bhagwan Mahaveer Award | 1998 |
| Diwaliben Mohanlal Mehta Award | 1998 |
| Justice K. S. Hegde Foundation Award | 1998 |
| Baya Karve Award | 1998 |
| Savitribai Phule Award | 1998 |
| Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry Award | 1988 |
| Satpaul Mittal Award | 1998 |
| Adivasi Sevak Puraskar | 1998 |
| Dr. Ambedkar International Award for Social Change | 1999 |
| Maharashtra Bhushan Award | 2004 |
| Bharathvasa award | 2008 |
Quotes of Baba Amte
- “I looked deep within for my soul, yet it remained unseen. I searched for my god, but it slipped away. Then, I turned to my sisters and brothers, finding all three within them.”
- “I dedicated myself to leprosy work not primarily to aid others, but to conquer the fear within me. While it turned out to benefit others, overcoming fear was my true motive.”
- “Happiness stems from continually comparing your experiences to less fortunate circumstances, fostering gratitude and joy through imaginative thought.”
- “Without dreams, progress comes to a halt.”
- “The future belongs to ordinary individuals with extraordinary determination.”
Baba Amte Death Anniversary 2024 FAQs
Q.1. Who was Baba Amte?
Ans. Baba Amte, born Murlidhar Devidas Amte, was an esteemed Indian social activist renowned for his work in aiding leprosy patients and advocating for social justice.
Q.2. What is Baba Amte’s significance in Indian history?
Ans. Baba Amte is celebrated for his commitment to Gandhi’s principles, his efforts in uplifting marginalized communities, and his contributions to India’s independence movement.
Q.3. What awards did Baba Amte receive?
Ans. Baba Amte received numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri, Ramon Magsaysay Award, Padma Vibhushan, and the United Nations Prize in the Field of Human Rights, among others.
Q.4. What were Baba Amte’s notable contributions?
Ans. Baba Amte established Anandwan Ashram for leprosy patients’ rehabilitation, led the Knit India March, and advocated for environmental and social causes, such as the Narmada Bachao Andolan movement.
Q.5. What are some inspiring quotes by Baba Amte?
Ans. Notable quotes by Baba Amte include reflections on inner strength, the pursuit of happiness, the importance of dreams, and the power of determination in shaping the future.
