Dr
Narendra Dabholkar, born on November 1, 1945, gave up his lucrative profession
to devote himself to social service. He did his MBBS degree from Medical College in Miraj. After working as a general
practitioner for nearly 12 years he entered into social service. In 1983, after
noticing that society at large was very superstitious — especially the rural
masses, he decided to work towards eradicating such social evils, reports TOI.
In
1989, Dabholkar founded the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti, a social
organization aimed at weeding out superstition. The MANS network has currently
has over 180 branches all over Maharastra. In the past two decades, he openly
challenged several godmen and self-styled gurus who he felt were exploiting the
masses. He was staunchly against animal sacrifice, a ritual which arises from
superstition itself.
He
wrote around 11 books which throw light on different superstitions prevailing
in society.
They contain a lot of scientific knowledge in order to break down
the believer's superstitions.
He
was one of us and we should all prey tribute to him.
He was a true warrior against the forces of darkness in the age of science. Many more like him are needed as in the backwaters of the country the traditional myths based on superstitions abound. While traditional myths are bad, new myths that are being created by medical industry also needs to be countered with rational approach. Were Dr Dabholkar's books in Marathi or English? I shall like to read at least one of them.
ReplyDeleteI have followed and appreciated the work of Dr Dhabolkar. We need several crusaders like him to move our society away from the grip of fear, superstition and ignorance. Let us join hands and make a difference! Er Anuj Sinha
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