Sindhutai Sapkal, known as the 'Mother of Orphans', once lived on the streets of Maharashtra, but then dedicated her life to caring for thousands of orphan children. A social worker and activist, Sapkal, was fondly remembered as "Mai", who took care of abandoned children all her life. Her experiences, including poverty, living on the streets, responsibilities and an early marriage, led her to this decision.
Born on November 14, 1948, in Pimpri Meghe, Maharashtra, Sindhutai Sapkal decided to provide love and support to orphans across Maharashtra. Her journey began under tragic circumstances.
Being an unwanted child, she was nicknamed ‘chindhi’ (torn piece of cloth). Her father wanted her to study, but their financial conditions were not good enough.
She was married at the age of 12 to a 32-year-old man and had three sons. When she was nine months pregnant for the fourth time, her husband abandoned her. Sindhutai gave birth alone on the roadside, using a sharp stone to cut the umbilical cord.
When she returned to her home, her mother rejected her, leading her to sing and beg in trains and on the streets just to make ends meet for her and her child. While living that experience, she realised that there were hundreds of children who needed a mother.
This harrowing experience did not lead her to despair; instead, it sparked a profound commitment to helping others in similar situations. She began her mission by adopting orphaned children she encountered while begging to survive.
Also Read: Local Legends: The 'Miracle' That Began In Ninth Grade With Fifteen Rupees — Padma Shri Dr. SG Susheelamma
In 1998, Sindhutai established the Sanmati Bal Niketan orphanage in Pune. Over her lifetime, she nurtured more than 1,500 children, providing them with food, education, and a sense of belonging.
Her approach combined maternal love with advocacy for children's rights, enabling her former wards to contribute back to society. Many of them have gone on to become leaders in their communities, demonstrating the impact of her work. Now, she has a grand family of 382 sons-in-law and 49 daughters-in-law.
Sindhutai received the "Padma Shri" award in 2021,a nd also received more than 750 awards and honours in her lifetime. However, with the money she received, she always built shelters for the orphans.
Source: India Latest News, Breaking News Today, Top News Headlines | Times Now
