Pune: The Auto-Immune Blistering Disease Foundation (AIBDF) presented the first 'AIBDF Gondan Award' to veteran social workers Dr. Mandakini and Dr. Prakash Amte. During the event held at the Deccan Gymkhana Club, Praveen Joshi conducted an open discussion with the Amte couple. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including former Indian Ambassador Gautam Bambawale, AIBDF Founder Trustee Ashokkumar Suratwala, Dr. Sharad Mutalik, Aniruddha Bambawale, Advocate Jayant Hemade, Dermatologist Dr. Sunil Vartak, Industrialist Nitinbhai Desai, and retired administrative officer Ramanath Jha.
On the occasion, Dr. Madhav Gadgil said that there is a misconception that people living close to nature are responsible for its destruction. Urban people hold discussions on this topic, but we fail to acknowledge that in the name of development, we are putting immense pressure on nature. The truth is, that people who live in harmony with nature help maintain its balance. The number of tigers has increased, and they venture into human settlements in search of food. Urban people claim that wild animals are encroaching on cities, but the truth is that we have encroached upon their habitats. Thousands of years ago, elephants and tigers lived in the forests, but now we have taken over their living spaces, he added.
He further emphasized, "Modern technology has made life easier, but economic inequality is worsening. Large-scale projects are causing environmental degradation and increasing pollution. We need to come together and think about sustainable solutions."
Dr. Prakash Amte shared his experiences, saying, "The suffering caused by skin diseases is difficult for others to understand. I had the opportunity to work closely with leprosy patients. What started with just six patients eventually grew to six thousand. My father, Baba Amte, taught these patients to live with dignity. Inspired by his work, we moved to Hemalkasa. At a young age, we took on this challenge, and Mandakini stood firmly by my side."
He continued, "In Hemalkasa, we focused on healthcare and education, which gradually led to the community’s development. Today, our extended family consists of thousands of people. Despite living among wild animals, we are safe because I trust them."
"There is a need for greater sensitivity from the government towards social organizations. Urban people are more superstitious than tribal communities. It was easier to raise awareness in tribal areas. Though it took time for them to trust us, once they accepted us, everything fell into place. Social service should not be about seeking divine blessings but about genuine work."
Dr. Mandakini Amte said, "Living a meaningful life without worrying about others’ opinions is what youthfulness is about. When I told my parents that I wanted to marry into Baba Amte’s family, which worked for leprosy patients, they were initially hesitant. However, after visiting Anandwan and meeting Baba Amte, they gave their approval. The happiness we experienced through our work was the greatest reward. We were fortunate to continue the legacy of Baba and Sadhanatai Amte. Even at the age of 75, we are leading a content and fulfilling life."
Dr. Sharad Mutalik elaborated on the activities of 'AIBDF,' stating, "The foundation is committed to raising awareness about auto-immune blistering diseases and providing assistance to affected individuals. Inspired by Ashokkumar Suratwala, this initiative was started in 2021 in memory of the late Jayashree Suratwala. Our mission is to make modern medical treatments more accessible and affordable for everyone."
In his welcome speech, Ashokkumar Suratwala said, "This award ceremony aims to raise awareness about this serious disease and encourage public participation in our foundation’s work. Honoring the Amte couple with the first Gondan Award is a privilege for us. Their inspiring journey motivates us to work even harder."
The event was anchored by Rohini Gokhale, and Aniruddha Bambawale delivered the vote of thanks. The ceremony began with a soulful prayer by Ananya Joglekar and concluded with 'Pasayadan.'
