2018-08-03 Fri

Murlidhar Devidas Amte also known as Baba Amte was an Indian social worker. He was popularly known for his work for the rehabilitation and empowerment of poor people suffering from leprosy.

Baba Amte was born in the city of Hinganghat of Maharashtra on 26 December 1914. He came to be known as Baba not because he was a saint or any such thing, but because his parents addressed him by that name.

Baba Amte is hailed as the last of the true followers of Gandhi’s philosophy. He not only internalized the philosophies directed by the Mahatma but also embraced the Gandhian way of life.

He and his wife, Sadhna Amte, had started an organization for the leprosy patients Anandwan in 1950. He has received many awards and prizes including Padma Vibhushan, the Gandhi Peace Prize, the Templeton Prize and the Jamnalal Bajaj Award.

On 3rd August 1985, he also received Ramon Magsaysay award for public service.

To honor this great social activist India post has issued commemorative postage stamp.

Image Source: Mintage World