Memorial unveiled at Anandwan in honour of uncounted heroes

Dignitaries along with Anandwan inmates planting saplings in the premises of the experimental memorial. (Pic by Satish Raut)

By Prashant Khuley :

Maharogi Sewa Samiti’s (MSS) 75 years’ magnificent journey has been full of vigour and challenges, compassion and sympathy. Memories cherished and shared over 75 years are still alive in Anandwan and everyone has a different story to tell. To commemorate the great legacy of pain and dignity, ‘An Experiential Memorial of the Leprosy-Affected Anonymous Persons’ was unveiled at Anandwan on Sunday. The memorial honours the spirit of uncounted heroes who dedicated their services to this sacred land. It was unveiled on Sunday to mark the 75th anniversary of MSS as well as the death anniversary of MSS founder late Baba Amte, a man whose life shone brightly with compassion and dedication to those affected by leprosy.

Created in the loving memory of Baba Amte and honouring those he served with such devotion, the memorial will stand as a constant reminder of their existence, ensuring that though their lives may have been lived largely unseen, their memory will forever be cherished. In the heart of Anandwan, this new memorial is a living tribute to the countless men and women who lived and passed away while facing harsh realities of leprosy. Their lives, often lived in the shadows, marked by the profound challenges of this disease, were further burdened by societal neglect and the deep wounds of stigma. The memorial, surrounded by colourful blossoming flowers and fruit trees, remind one of the strength it took for the leprosy afflicted to endure the pain.

The leaves rustling in the breeze seem to whisper their stories. It encourages one to look beyond disease and despair and recognise the shared humanity and the enduring spark of hope within every individual, even amidst the greatest adversity.

The memorial reminds visitors of happiness, dignity, self-respect, motivation, self-empowerment and self-confidence. Ram Naik, former Governor of Uttar Pradesh; Magsaysay awardee Anshu Gupta, Meekashi Gupta of Goonj NGO; Suhas Tuljapurkar, founder of Legasis Pvt Ltd; ‘Padma Bhushan’ Dr Krishna Ella, Executive Chairman of Bharat Biotech; Rachna Ranade, CA and social media influencer; Dr Vikas Amte, Dr Prakash Amte, and others handed over saplings to be planted on the occasion to Anandwan inmates namely Ramchandra Khawse, Meeratai, Shriram Bawaney, Ranjana Thakur, Sambha Jengthe, Shrawan Dange, and Raibai. Together, they all planted saplings, commemorating memories of their fellow brothers and sisters. Kaustubh Vikas Amte elaborated the purpose and feelings behind erecting the memorial. Amrita Naidu, who represents the third generation of her family with the Amtes, conducted the proceedings. Kaustubh Amte credit her with conceptualising the memorial.