Bharat Ratna Maharshi Dhondo Keshav Karve
Bharat Ratna Maharshi Dhondo Keshav Karve, popularly known as ‘Anna’ was born in Konkan, (Maharashtra) on 18th April 1858. He spent his childhood at Murud (Ratnagiri) in poverty and hardships. He observed the dire consequences of the custom of child marriage. After the death of his first wife, he remarried a child widow and set an example of widow re-marriage. He incurred the wrath of the society due to this progressive decision, but he remained unmoved.
As he knew the significance of education for women, he set his goal of life by devoting himself for this purpose. It was a challenging task to stand against the views of the society and age-old beliefs. Gradually the significance of girls’ education was accepted. The flourishing institute that stands proudly today is a fruit of his endless efforts and far-sighted vision.