Dhondo Keshava Karve, originally known as Annasaheb, was born on 18th April 1858 at
Ratnagiri District of
Maharashtra. He was a well-known social reformer and educationalist. After completing graduation, he joined Cathedral Girls’ High School as a teacher. Later he was appointed as a professor of mathematics at Fergusson College,
Pune.
During his time, widows were not allowed to marry twice. But Karve succeeded in encouraging remarriage of Hindu widows. A widow home named ‘Mahilashram’ was started at Pune in 1898,for the upliftment of widows. Karve’s other contributions include Mahila Vidyala, Kanya Shala, and Indian Women’s University. In order to raise funds for the enhancement of women community, especially widows, he visited England, America, and Africa.
Karve also worked for abolishing caste discrimination and untouchability that was prevalent during the period. He was the recipient of several awards and honours including D Litt, Padma Vibhushan, and Bharat Ratna. His monthly publication, Manavi-Samata, is very popular among the general public. Though he passed away on 1962, he is still remembered for his matchless contributions.
