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Baba Raghav Das

(1896 – 1958) – (Maharashtra)

Baba Raghav Das (Aged 62) was born on 12 December 1896 and was known as the Gandhi of Poorvanchal. He was an Indian guru, freedom fighter, reformer, philosopher, member of parliament, and activist, best known for his social contributions. In 1998, the government of India released a postage stamp in his honour.

In 1921, Mahatma Gandhi visited Ghorakhpur and met Raghav Das. From that point on, Raghav Das joined the Indian Independence Movement and worked tirelessly for the independence of India and the welfare of its oppressed people. Gandhi addressed Raghav Das as “Baba Raghavdas”, and he became popular as Baba Raghavdas. Gandhi believed that “gaining freedom for India would be easier if more saints like Raghavdas joined them”.

Raghavdas was imprisoned several times for his activities in the Indian Independence Movement, the first being in 1921. His contributions to the Independence movement included accompanying Gandhi during the Dandi March (the Salt March). Raghavdas’ Ashram in Barah was the epicenter of independence activities, including providing shelter for many freedom fighters.

From 1947 to 1958, Raghav Das dedicated himself to various welfare activities, playing an active part in the Bhoodan Movement started by Vinoba Bhave. He believed that the importance of independence could only be instilled in people through education, so he established several educational institutions. He was also sympathetic to the sufferings of people afflicted by leprosy and, inspired by Gandhi, established a Leper House at Gorakhpur and Mairwa Bihar. He passed away on 15 January 1958.