Ek roti kam khaao... Who was Saint Gadge Baba? A champion of social service

Sant Gadge Baba: Saint Gadge Baba, hailed as the father of the cleanliness campaign, left an indelible mark on society through his selfless service and unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes. Born on 23 February 1876 in Shengaon Anjangaon, Maharashtra, he epitomized the virtues of simplicity, compassion, and service to humanity.

A Life of Service and Sacrifice

Gadge Baba, originally named Debuji Jhingraji Janorkar, devoted his life to uplifting the underprivileged and marginalized communities across Maharashtra. Despite his humble upbringing and lack of formal education, he displayed remarkable intellect and empathy from a young age.

Throughout his life, Gadge Baba eschewed material possessions, choosing instead to live a life of austerity and service. He shunned personal comforts, opting to reside in the verandahs of dharamshalas or beneath the shade of trees. His philanthropic endeavours included the construction of dharamshalas, cowsheds, schools, hospitals, and hostels, all funded through alms obtained by begging.

A Voice Against Superstition and Social Evils

Gadge Baba was a staunch critic of superstitions, ostentatious displays of wealth, and societal injustices. He recognized the detrimental impact of these practices on society and dedicated himself to combatting them. Despite being illiterate, he possessed profound wisdom and insight, acquired through years of observation and contemplation.

Service as Devotion

For Gadge Baba, service to the destitute and neglected was akin to worshipping the divine. He vehemently opposed religious ostentation and advocated for a humanitarian approach to spirituality. He believed that true devotion lay in alleviating the suffering of fellow human beings and providing them with essential necessities such as food, water, clothing, and education.

Establishing Dharamshalas and Granaries

One of Gadge Baba's most significant contributions was the establishment of dharamshalas, providing free accommodation to impoverished travellers. His Dharamshala in Nashik, capable of housing 500 travellers simultaneously, stands as a testament to his commitment to hospitality and compassion. Additionally, he organized annual granaries to distribute blankets, utensils, and other essentials to the needy.

Legacy of Social Reform

Gadge Baba's legacy extends beyond his philanthropic endeavours; he was a vocal advocate for social reform. He vehemently opposed practices such as animal sacrifice, drug addiction, untouchability, and exploitation of labourers and farmers. His progressive stance on societal issues paved the way for lasting change and inspired future generations to uphold his values.

Continuing the Mission

The Gadge Maharaj Mission, established in his honour, continues to uphold his legacy of service and compassion. Through its various initiatives, the mission strives to address contemporary social challenges and carry forward Gadge Baba's vision of a more equitable and compassionate society.

A Tribute to a Humanitarian Icon

Saint Gadge Baba's life exemplifies the principles of selflessness, compassion, and social responsibility. His unwavering dedication to the welfare of humanity serves as an enduring inspiration for all. As we commemorate his legacy, we pay homage to a true karmayogi whose noble deeds continue to illuminate the path of service and sacrifice.