List of days of the year

18 April - Dr. Dhondo Keshav Karve birth anniversary

 


Dhondo Keshav Karve, also known as Maharshi Karve, was a prominent social reformer and educator in India. He was born on 18 April 1858, in Sheravali village, Maharashtra, and passed away on 09 November 1962, in Pune, India.

Karve is best known for his contributions to women's education and women's rights in India. He strongly advocated for women's empowerment and played a pivotal role in promoting education and social reforms for women in a time when women's education was not widely supported.

In 1896, Karve established the first residential school for widows in Hingne, near Pune, which aimed to provide education and support to widows who faced social ostracism and neglect. This institution later grew into the renowned Maharshi Karve Stree Shikshan Samstha (MKSSS), an organization dedicated to women's education and social upliftment. MKSSS pioneered several educational initiatives for women, including the establishment of the first women's university in India, SNDT Women's University, in 1916.

Karve's efforts in promoting women's education earned him widespread recognition and respect. He was honored with the title of "Maharshi" (Great Sage) by Mahatma Gandhi for his selfless dedication to the cause of social reform.

Apart from his work in women's education, Karve actively worked towards various social causes, including the eradication of child marriage, the promotion of family planning, and the upliftment of marginalized communities. He received several awards and accolades for his contributions, including the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, which he received posthumously in 1958.

Dhondo Keshav Karve's efforts in championing women's education and social reforms in India have left a lasting impact. His work continues to inspire generations, and the institutions he founded continue to play a vital role in empowering women and promoting social progress in the country.

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