True Greatness Shines Through Action: Dr. Prakash and Dr. Mandakini Amte Honoured with First AIBDF Gondan Award

Pune — The true measure of a person’s greatness lies not in titles or tributes, but in their tireless service to humanity. This powerful sentiment was echoed by Dr. Prakash Amte, who, along with his wife Dr. Mandakini Amte, was awarded the first-ever AIBDF Gondan Award at a heartwarming felicitation ceremony organized by the Autoimmune Blistering Disease Foundation (AIBDF) at the Deccan Gymkhana Club.

Presented by renowned environmentalist Dr. Madhav Gadgil, the award honors decades of selfless service by the Amte couple in the field of leprosy rehabilitation and tribal development. The couple’s lifelong commitment to uplift the marginalized, even amidst hardships, moved an audience full of dignitaries, doctors, diplomats, and social workers.

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Bridging the Urban-Rural Divide: Dr. Gadgil’s Call for Ecological Reflection

In his keynote address, Dr. Madhav Gadgil challenged urban narratives that blame rural and tribal communities for environmental degradation. “People who live close to nature are wrongly held responsible for its destruction. But in truth, it’s the urban expansion, the so-called ‘development’, that is placing the real burden on nature,” he said.

Dr. Gadgil emphasized the urgency of environmental conservation, pointing out how human encroachment is displacing wildlife and degrading ecosystems. “We need to reflect collectively — progress should not come at the cost of pollution and imbalance.”

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The Journey of Grit, Grace, and Gratitude

Receiving the award, Dr. Prakash Amte reflected on his family’s journey that began with just six leprosy patients and expanded to serve over six thousand. “My father taught even those without fingers to live with dignity. We faced resistance, even fear from guests who hesitated to drink water in our home. But my father stood firm.”

He recalled how their decision to work in Hemalkasa, a remote tribal region, was deeply personal yet fueled by inspiration. “Mandakini supported me unconditionally. We worked with bare essentials but stayed focused on education and healthcare. Over time, Hemalkasa became home to a thousand-strong family,” he said.

Their approach was rooted in trust and mutual respect — even with wild animals. “We lived among them. Because we never harmed them, they never harmed us.”

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“Let Work Speak”: A Life Lived with Purpose

“Society often puts people on a pedestal,” said Dr. Amte, “but true greatness must be seen through one’s work.”

He shared how their mission grew organically — without expectations, without regrets. “We must not be ashamed of any kind of work. And we must draw a line on how much we want. That’s the real path to contentment.”

He called for greater government sensitivity towards social organizations, adding that tribal communities are more open to awareness and change than urban populations bound by superstition.

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Dr. Mandakini Amte: Courage in Compassion

Dr. Mandakini Amte offered a deeply personal perspective. “My parents were shocked when I said I wanted to marry into a family serving leprosy patients. But once they met Baba and saw Anandwan, they understood.”

Their journey was not just about social work but about building a life of joy through service. “Even today, in our seventies, we live a life of satisfaction. We treated animals with humanity, and they trusted us in return. They’re part of our extended family.”

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AIBDF’s Mission: Making Modern Skin Treatment Accessible

Dr. Sharad Mutalik spoke about the work being done by the AIBDF in spreading awareness about autoimmune blistering diseases — a group of rare but severe skin disorders. Founded in 2021 in memory of the late Jayashree Suratwala, the foundation is working to make modern dermatological treatments affordable and accessible to all.

Founder trustee Ashokkumar Suratwala, in his welcome address, noted, “This award is our tribute to the Amtes’ tireless work. Through them, we hope to inspire wider participation in our mission.”

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A Ceremony That Celebrated Humanity

The event began with a soulful prayer by Ananya Joglekar, and concluded with a recital of Pasaydan. Rohini Gokhale seamlessly hosted the event, and Aniruddha Bambawale delivered the vote of thanks.

Among those present were former ambassador Gautam Bambawale, dermatologist Dr. Sunil Vartak, and several community leaders and well-wishers. But it was the presence of Dr. Prakash and Dr. Mandakini Amte that made the evening truly unforgettable — a celebration of lives lived in service of others, a reminder that true greatness lies not in fame, but in compassion and commitment.