Veteran Social Activist Baba Adhav Passes Away in Pune
Pune, 8th December 2025: Baba Adhav, a prominent social activist and champion of labor rights in Maharashtra, passed away today. Known for his relentless efforts to improve the lives of unorganized workers, including porters, construction laborers, and rickshaw drivers, Adhav was widely respected across the state for his dedication to social justice.
Baba Adhav was born on June 1, 1930 (some records mention 1936) in Pune. Trained in Ayurveda, he devoted much of his life to activism, focusing on the rights and welfare of marginalized communities. He founded the Hamal Panchayat, an organization that provided legal, social, and financial support to laborers who often faced exploitation and discrimination.
Adhav led several initiatives to fight caste-based inequality and social injustice. One of his notable campaigns, Ek Gaav Ek Paanvatha (“One Village, One Water Source”), aimed at addressing water scarcity and social inequities in rural areas.
Baba Adhav had been critically ill for the past few days and was admitted to an ICU in Pune. His condition had worsened in recent days, prompting visits from political and social leaders who expressed concern for his health.
The mortal remains of Baba Adhav will be kept at Hamal Bhavan in Market Yard at 10 am on Tuesday for people to pay their last respects. The last rites will be performed at Vaikunth Crematorium in Sadashiv Peth at 5 pm, informed Nitin Pawar, close aide of Adhav.
Adhav’s work has left a lasting impact on Maharashtra’s labor movements, giving a voice and dignity to countless workers across the state. His passing marks the end of an era for social activism focused on the state’s most marginalized communities.
