Jumdevji Thubrikar (April 3, 1921 – 1996), also known as Mahantyagi Baba Jumdevji, was an Indian social reformer and spiritual leader who dedicated his life to the betterment of society through addiction recovery, social unity, and the eradication of superstitions. His efforts left a significant impact across Maharashtra and other Indian states.[1]

Early life

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Jumdevji Thubrikar was born on April 3, 1921, into a humble and poor family in Nagpur, Maharashtra. His father, Vithobaji Thubrikar, was a weaver, and his mother, Saraswatibai, was a homemaker. He had three elder brothers, Balkrishna, Narayan, and Jagoba, and a younger brother, Maroti. Due to financial hardships, Thubrikar could only complete education up to the fourth grade.[2]

Personal life

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At the age of 17, in 1938, Thubrikar married Varanasibai. Initially, he worked in the family’s traditional weaving business but later moved on to work as a goldsmith for Seth Kesrimal. Subsequently, he began working as a contractor for the Nagpur Municipal Corporation.

The couple had a son, Mahadev, who faced difficulties pursuing higher education due to financial constraints. However, Thubrikar encouraged him to excel in academics. Mahadev, also known as Dr. Mano Jumdevji Thubrikar, went on to earn several engineering certifications and gained recognition as one of the world's leading medical scientists, ranked seventh among the top nine.[2]

Social and spiritual work

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Jumdevji Thubrikar founded Parmatma Ek Sevak Manav Dharma Mandal, an organization focused on addressing societal issues. His primary areas of work included campaigning against substance abuse and supporting individuals in overcoming addiction, promoting harmony across different communities, and educating people about scientific thinking and rational beliefs.

His efforts reached beyond Maharashtra, impacting communities in various other Indian states.[3]

Legacy

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In recognition of his significant contributions, the Government of India honored Jumdevji Thubrikar by issuing a commemorative postal stamp. The stamp was unveiled on October 1, 2013, by the then Vice President of India, Dr. Hamid Ansari, as a tribute to Thubrikar’s extraordinary life and work.[4][5]

References

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  1. ^ "Who was Baba Jumdevji (1921–1996)". Times of India. 8 February 2020. Archived from the original on 28 March 2021. Retrieved 28 March 2021.
  2. ^ a b "Q&A with Dr. Thubrikar of Thubrikar Aortic Valve, Inc. Founder & President". 22 September 2020. Retrieved 28 March 2021.
  3. ^ "बाबा जुमदेवजी के मार्ग पर निस्वार्थ भाव से आए सेवक" (in Hindi). 17 February 2019. Retrieved 28 March 2021.
  4. ^ "Vice President Releases Postal Stamp of Jumdev Baba". India TV. 2013-10-01. Retrieved 31 December 2017.
  5. ^ "Postal Stamp to be Issued in the Name of Baba Jumdev" (in Hindi). Retrieved 28 March 2021.