Pandurang Shastri Athavale

Pandurang Shastri Athavale (19 October 1920 - 25 October 2003) was an Indian philosopher, spiritual leader, and social reformer. He was best known for his advocacy of a practical form of Hindu spirituality called Swadhyaya, or self-study, as well as being the founder of the Shree Ram Chandra Mission. He was awarded the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1997 for his work with communities in India.

He was born in the small village of Roha, near Mumbai on 19 October 1920. Growing up he faced economic difficulties which forced him to drop out of school at the age of 14 and seek employment instead. Despite this early hardship he later completed two Masters degrees – one in Philosophy and one in Law – from Elphinstone College and Government Law College respectively.

Athavale's views and teachings focused on truth and equality for all individuals regardless of class or caste. He argued that if individuals could overcome their sense of attachment to material possessions then true spiritual liberation would be achieved. As such he developed a unique spiritual movement that emphasized reflection, humility, selflessness and simplicity. His message resonated with people throughout India inspiring millions to embrace his vision and teachings over the years.

Throughout his life, Athavale spread awareness through campaigns around rural India such as rural upliftment programs, women empowerment projects and healthcare initiatives. He was known as ‘The Guru Who Walked’ because he often walked to different villages across India spreading his message and improving conditions there as well. His efforts resulted in an increase in income among several Indian farmers, who went on to set up hundreds of businesses based upon Swadhyaya principles within their respective villages thus making Athavale's name famous across India. The philosophy he created is still practiced today by thousands of people all over the world due to its empowering nature that does not depend on any external authority for spiritual guidance or validation but instead encourages individuals to follow their own path towards enlightenment. Pandurang Shastri Athavale’s mission remains strong more than ever before as people everywhere strive for social justice and progress under the banner of truth, compassion and mutual respect advocated by him during his lifetime.