Gandhian and social worker of international repute, Murlidhar Devidas alias Baba Amte was given a state funeral at his Anandvan ashram on Sunday in the presence of thousands of his admirers and mourners from across the state.

A 21-gun salute to late Amte was given as his mortal remains were lowered in a grave near the bamboo plantation in the ashram complex amidst a solemn atmosphere, highly charged with emotions. Mourners raised slogans like Baba Amte amar rahe (Baba Amte will be immortal) and Bharat Jodo (Unite India).

His wife, Sadhnatai, sons, Dr Vikas and Dr Prakash, their spouses and grandchildren stood in grief as the nation mourned the loss.

Amte passed away on Saturday at 4.15 am due to blood cancer. He was 94.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh led the entire state and country in paying homage to the departed Gandhian. As per Amte’s wish, he was buried near the bamboo plantation in Anandvan premises.