Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, a renowned Indian sociologist (1943-2023), left an indelible mark on the world through his tireless work in sanitation and social reform. His legacy extends far beyond India’s borders, impacting millions of lives globally.

Wiki/Biography

Born on Friday, April 2nd, 1943, in Rampur Baghel village, Vaishali district, Bihar, Dr. Pathak’s zodiac sign was Aries. His educational journey began at a government school in Rampur, Bihar, followed by studies at RDS College, Muzaffarpur; National College, Patna; and finally, Patna University. He graduated in Sociology from B.N. College, Patna in 1964, later earning M.A. degrees in Sociology (1980) and English (1986). His academic achievements culminated in a PhD (1985) and D.Litt. (1994).

Family & Caste

Dr. Pathak hailed from a Hindu Brahmin family. His father, Dr. Rama Kant Pathak, was an Ayurvedic doctor, and his mother was Yogmaya Devi. He was the second of six siblings. He married Amola in July 1965; she resided in Mehnar, Vaishali district, Bihar. The couple had three children: one son and two daughters.

Career

Driven by a deep concern for sanitation issues, particularly open defecation and manual scavenging, Dr. Pathak founded Sulabh International in 1973. This non-profit organization has played a crucial role in constructing over 1.5 million household Sulabh Shauchalayas (pour-flush toilets) across India, providing sanitation facilities to nearly 20 million people daily. The organization’s innovative approach has generated employment for over 50,000 individuals managing more than 8,500 toilets, generating significant revenue.

Early challenges included resistance from his family and societal norms. His commitment to the cause, despite his Brahmin background, stemmed from his deep-seated belief in Gandhian principles and a profound understanding of social injustice.

Sulabh International’s journey wasn’t without hardship. Initial financial struggles led to a crisis point, requiring him to sell family jewelry to sustain the organization’s operations. However, a significant order in 1973 marked a turning point, setting the stage for Sulabh International’s remarkable success.

Dr. Pathak actively sought government support, engaging with leaders like Indira Gandhi to highlight the plight of manual scavengers. He strategically leveraged corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds from organizations like the State Bank of India, ONGC, Maruti, HDFC, and the Bharti Foundation, among others, further solidifying the organization’s growth.

Awards & Honours

Dr. Pathak’s contributions have earned him numerous accolades:

• 1991: Padma Bhushan
• 2003: UNEP Global 500 Roll of Honour, UN-Habitat Scroll of Honour Award
• 2004: Dubai International Award for Best Practices
• 2005: Good Corporate Citizen Award from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
• 2007: Energy Globe Award
• 2009: Stockholm Water Prize
• 2015: CNN News-18 Indian of the Year
• 2016: WHO Public Health Champion Award, New York Global Leaders Dialogue Humanitarian Award
• 2017: Golden Peacock Lifetime Achievement Award, Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award
• 2018: 23rd Nikkei Asia Prize
• 2019: Gandhi Peace Prize
• 2024: Padma Vibhushan (posthumously)

Address

Sulabh Bhawan, Mahavir Enclave Palam Dabri Road, New Delhi 110045

Death

Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak passed away on August 15, 2023, at AIIMS, New Delhi, due to cardiac arrest. He collapsed after participating in Independence Day celebrations.

Facts

Several interesting facts highlight Dr. Pathak’s life journey:

• He faced early opposition due to his caste and chosen profession.
• His grandfather was a renowned astrologer who prophesied his future success.
• He overcame personal challenges and shyness to achieve remarkable feats.
• His early experiences and encounters significantly shaped his commitment to social reform.
• April 14, 2016, was declared “Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak Day” by the Mayor of New York City.
• His organization operates a toilet museum to raise awareness.
• He appeared on the popular Indian game show, Kaun Banega Crorepati.

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