Anandwan

Anandwan आनंदवन
Rehabilitation center
Country	India
State	Maharashtra
District	Chandrapur district
Established	1948
Founded by	Baba Amte
Time zone	UTC+5:30 (IST)

Anandwan (Marathi: आनंदवन, Forest of Joy) is a rehabilitation center and community located in the Chandrapur district of the state of Maharashtra, India. It was founded in 1948 by noted social activist Baba Amte to serve as a self-sufficient community for people affected by leprosy and other disabilities.

History

Anandwan was established in 1948 by Baba Amte, a renowned social worker and activist, who dedicated his life to the care and rehabilitation of leprosy patients. The community was created to provide a safe haven for those ostracized by society due to their condition. Over the years, Anandwan has grown into a self-sustaining community that includes schools, hospitals, and various vocational training centers.

Facilities

Anandwan is equipped with a variety of facilities aimed at providing comprehensive care and rehabilitation. These include:

• Hospitals: Anandwan has specialized hospitals for the treatment of leprosy and other medical conditions.
• Schools: Educational institutions within Anandwan cater to children and adults, providing both general and vocational education.
• Vocational training centers: These centers offer training in various trades such as agriculture, carpentry, and weaving, enabling residents to become self-reliant.

Community Life

The community at Anandwan is designed to be self-sufficient. Residents engage in various activities such as farming, animal husbandry, and small-scale industries. The aim is to create an environment where individuals can live with dignity and contribute to the community's well-being.

Legacy

Anandwan has become a model for similar rehabilitation centers across India and the world. The work initiated by Baba Amte has been continued by his family and numerous volunteers. The community has received several awards and recognitions for its contributions to social welfare and rehabilitation.

See also

• Baba Amte
• Leprosy
• Rehabilitation (neuropsychology)
• Chandrapur district
• Maharashtra