Bindeshwar Pathak, the visionary behind Sulabh International, a renowned social service organization focused on human rights, environmental sanitation, waste management, and education-driven reforms, has passed away at AIIMS Delhi. The 80-year-old founder, who was instrumental in revolutionizing public toilets in India, succumbed to a cardiac arrest on Tuesday, as confirmed by a close associate cited by news agency PTI.
Pathak's significant contributions to society earned him widespread recognition and respect. Through Sulabh International, he spearheaded efforts to improve sanitation and hygiene, advocating for better living conditions for marginalized communities. His commitment to promoting human dignity and equality extended beyond the borders of India, leaving a lasting impact on a global scale.
On the morning of Independence Day, Pathak had raised the national flag before suddenly collapsing. Swiftly transported to AIIMS Delhi, his arrival unfortunately marked his last moments. Medical professionals declared him brought dead at 1.42 pm, attributing his passing to a cardiac arrest.
Born into a Brahmin family in Rampur Baghel village, Vaishali district, Bihar, Bindeshwar Pathak's journey was marked by a desire to uplift society. His father, Ramakant Pathak, was a respected figure within the community, and his mother, Yogmaya Devi, nurtured his values. Despite initially intending to pursue a master's degree in criminology at Sagar University in Madhya Pradesh, Pathak's course veered in an unexpected direction.
While en route to Sagar, he was advised by two individuals to join the Gandhi Centenary Committee in Patna, promising adequate compensation. Given his immediate financial needs, Pathak agreed. Upon arrival, he learned that no employment opportunity awaited him. Unable to enroll at Sagar due to missed deadlines, he decided to volunteer with the committee.
Pathak's life-changing moment occurred during his time at the Gandhi Centenary Committee. He witnessed a heartbreaking incident in which a boy clad in a red shirt was attacked by a bull. Shockingly, when bystanders realized the boy was deemed "untouchable," they abandoned him, leaving him to face the danger alone. This unjust and tragic event left an indelible mark on Pathak's conscience.
Driven by a newfound sense of purpose, he committed himself to Mahatma Gandhi's ideals. He vowed to champion the rights of the untouchables and to advance the causes of human dignity and equality, both within his country and across the globe. This commitment became his life's mission, culminating in the establishment of Sulabh International Social Service Organisation.
Bindeshwar Pathak's legacy is one of transformative change and unwavering dedication to creating a more just and equitable world. His passing marks the end of an era, but his contributions will continue to inspire generations to come.
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