Udaipur. Bindeshwar Pathak, the founder of Sulabh International and a pioneering social activist renowned for his work in constructing public toilets, passed away on Tuesday, August 15 at AIIMS Delhi. His demise was attributed to a cardiac arrest.
Born into a Brahmin family, Bindeshwar Pathak devoted his entire life to uplifting the downtrodden, especially those burdened with the task of carrying night soil on their heads. Though he initially aspired to be a sociology teacher, his journey led him to forge an immense social movement in India centered on sanitation – the revolutionary Sulabh Complexes, a network of public toilets across the country. Despite attempts to downplay his efforts as a mere business model, what he initiated decades ago has now evolved into a highly successful mechanism for promoting sanitation and public health.
Sulabh Complexes, an innovative concept introduced by Pathak, have proven to be a safe haven for women who previously struggled to find suitable places for their basic needs. Bindeshwar Pathak's frequent visits to Udaipur over the past two decades and his participation in various events have left an indelible mark. My first encounter with him was in the mid-2000s at Hotel Lake Palace in Udaipur, where he engaged with the press to share his insights on bio gas-linked toilets.
Amidst an audience, Pathak held a small ball in his hand, engaging in a rhythmic release and catch, as the ball bounced back. This curious scene captured the attention of those present, myself included, and gave rise to questions about the purpose behind this seemingly playful act by the renowned "Toilet Man of India."
Unveiling the motive behind the ball, it swiftly became clear that this was no ordinary object. Resembling a table tennis ball in size, this black-brown ball was constructed from human excreta – a daring embodiment of the very material that Pathak aimed to revolutionize. In a demonstration of unwavering conviction and dedication, Pathak held the ball , undeterred by hesitancy or reservation. While most, including fellow journalists, might have recoiled from such a sight, his action encapsulated the profound commitment to his cause.
During another notable instance, Bindeshwar Pathak graced Udaipur with his presence, attending an event organized by Udaipur Tales in February 2017. At this storytelling gathering, Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak shared a treasure trove of anecdotes from his own life, offering insights into his journey of overcoming obstacles and striving for progress.
The event proved a platform for him to recount the significant milestones of his life, revealing the remarkable trajectory he embarked upon despite daunting odds.
In his narrative, Dr. Pathak unveiled stories that had been instrumental in fortifying his resolve to forge ahead. The struggles he faced were not only a part of his past but also vital components of his inspiring narrative, making him an embodiment of resilience and dedication.
"Dr. Pathak's revolutionary efforts spanning five decades have paved the way for India's cleanliness drive today. His indomitable dedication and visionary approach have not only transformed sanitation practices but also heightened awareness about the intrinsic link between human dignity, environmental well-being, and societal progress." expressed Dr. Anil Mehta, an environmentalist in Udaipur.
Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, born in a Brahmin family in Bihar's Vaishali district, witnessed early the discrimination against untouchables. His grandmother's biased treatment of women who cleaned dry latrines left a lasting impression. Even touching an 'untouchable' woman resulted in harsh purification rituals.
Once Pathak touched an ‘untouchable’ woman out of curiosity in front of his grandmother. The consequences were severe: he was made to eat cow dung and urine, bathed in Ganga water in a wintry morning in order to cleanse and purify him. This was the level of superstition and discrimination that prevailed in rural India against untouchables.
Following his educational pursuits, Pathak briefly embraced a teaching role before embarking on a pivotal journey with the Gandhi Centenary Committee in Patna. The transition from education to active involvement marked a turning point in his life.
As a dedicated volunteer, Pathak's commitment shone through. The Bihar Gandhi Centenary Committee recognized his potential and entrusted him with a profound mission. Guided by the general secretary, Saryu Prasad, he was tasked with a vital responsibility: restoring human rights and dignity to untouchables. This directive led him to the town of Betiah, where he began his remarkable journey of advocating for marginalized communities and championing equality and justice.
In Betiah, a stark reality confronted Bindeshwar Pathak first hand. He encountered the magnitude of the challenges faced by the community of manual scavengers – often referred to as untouchables. These individuals were subjected to harsh treatment and an existence that bordered on inhuman.
A particular incident etched itself into Pathak's memory, leaving an indelible mark on his convictions. Ina story telling session hosted by Udaipur Tales, Pathak narrated , "One day, while working there, I witnessed a harrowing incident. I saw a bull attacking a boy in a red shirt. When people rushed to save him, somebody yelled that he was untouchable. The crowd instantly abandoned him and left him to die."
This heart-wrenching episode profoundly impacted Pathak's conscience. It ignited a fire within him to fulfill Mahatma Gandhi's dreams – advocating for untouchables' rights and championing the causes of human dignity and equality, not only within his nation but across the globe. This became his unwavering mission.
Troubled by the deplorable conditions endured by untouchables and fueled by Mahatma Gandhi's teachings, Pathak embarked on a journey of innovation in 1968. With a vision to replace dry latrines, he harnessed technology to address the issue at its core. His goal was to eradicate the need for manual scavenging, liberating the community from the burden of cleaning bucket toilets.
Open defecation was a rampant issue plaguing communities, with women being disproportionately affected. Under the shroud of darkness – either at dawn or after sunset – they risked exposure to crime, snakebites, and animal attacks. This dire scenario extended to children as well, who fell prey to diarrheal diseases due to lack of sanitation facilities. The absence of public toilets exacerbated these problems, perpetuating a cycle of suffering and loss.
Facing monumental challenges, Bindeshwar Pathak embarked on an arduous journey to address these pressing issues. Funds were desperately needed, prompting him to sell a piece of land from his village and even borrow money from friends. Pathak's commitment to his cause came at a personal cost, as he endured sleepless nights on railway platforms and often went without meals.
For Bindeshwar Pathak, a pivotal turning point arrived in 1973 that would alter the course of sanitation history in India. The moment of reckoning unfolded when an officer from the Arrah municipality, a small town in Bihar, extended a sum of 500 rupees to Pathak. This modest amount was earmarked for constructing two demonstration toilets on the premises.
The toilets, crafted with meticulous care, captured the attention of authorities, sparking a wider initiative. The project gained swift approval, heralding a new era in sanitation. Pathak's dedication knew no bounds as he embarked on an ardent mission, engaging in door-to-door efforts to motivate and educate beneficiaries about the transformative potential of converting their bucket latrines into Sulabh toilets.
The results were nothing short of remarkable. The project's resounding success reverberated through communities, inspiring a wave of change. The impact was so profound that Pathak was soon summoned to replicate the triumph in Buxar. Within a mere year, Sulabh's influence extended to the state capital, Patna.
In 1974, a significant milestone was reached in the journey of Sulabh and Bindeshwar Pathak. The Bihar Government issued a circular to all local bodies, urging them to collaborate with Sulabh in the conversion of bucket toilets into the innovative Sulabh two-pit pour-flush toilets, a design pioneered by Pathak himself. The objective was to liberate scavengers from the dehumanizing occupation of manually cleaning human excreta and carrying it as headloads. This initiative aimed not only for improved sanitation but also for dignity and empowerment.
The program's resounding success reverberated throughout Bihar. The government's endorsement spurred the expansion of the initiative across the state, signalling a new era in sanitation practices. Concurrently, in the same year, Pathak introduced a novel concept to India – the maintenance of public toilets on a pay-and-use basis. This pioneering approach quickly gained traction, soon becoming a popular phenomenon nationwide.
By 1980, the impact was tangible: an impressive 25,000 individuals were benefiting from Sulabh's public facilities in Patna alone. The program's triumphant trajectory caught the attention of national and international press, signifying its growing prominence and recognition.
Since its inception, the Sulabh Foundation has achieved remarkable milestones in improving sanitation across India. With a staggering 1.5 million toilets constructed, benefiting over 20 million individuals, its impact has been nothing short of transformative. The ingenious design has also found resonance beyond Indian borders, finding application in various global contexts.
A testament to its commitment, since 1974, Sulabh has erected more than 9,000 "pay-and-use" toilets across urban slums and vital public locations such as bus stands, markets, and railway stations nationwide. This strategic deployment has not only addressed the dire need for sanitation facilities but has also elevated the dignity of countless individuals.
The Sulabh Sanitation Movement surpassed its role in hygiene, becoming a catalyst for human rights transformation. Bindeshwar Pathak's vision aimed to dismantle prejudiced norms, particularly the exclusion of manual scavengers from temples. In 1988, he led a historic action, joining manual scavengers and Brahmins in performing rituals at Nathdwara temples.
Initially met with resistance, the group was denied entry. However, Pathak's approach differed: he chose persuasion over confrontation. With unwavering determination, he convinced the temple priests to allow access. This unprecedented feat garnered widespread acclaim and marked a turning point in challenging societal barriers.
The impact echoed through the corridors of power. Pathak and his group were recognized by influential figures including President Venkataraman, Vice-President Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma, and the Prime Minister. This bold initiative not only reshaped perceptions but also showcased the transformative potential of coupling human rights advocacy with sanitation endeavors.
In 1991, a significant milestone marked the recognition of Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak's contributions. His monumental efforts in liberating and rehabilitating manual scavengers, coupled with his innovative pour-flush toilet technology as an eco-friendly alternative to dry latrines, earned him the prestigious Padma Bhushan award.
In 1992, the global stage acknowledged Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak's profound impact. He received The International Saint Francis Prize for the Environment – Canticle of All Creatures, bestowed by none other than Pope John Paul II.
In 2019 Sulabh was awarded the Gandhi Peace Prize for implementing the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Campaign).
In 2012, prompted by a Supreme Court directive, Dr. Pathak embarked on a profound philanthropic mission. The court's observation that governmental efforts fell short in alleviating the plight of Vrindavan's widows ignited action. A public interest litigation petition filed by the National Legal Services Authority charity unveiled the dire conditions these widows faced. The grim reality included destitution so severe that even proper funerals were unaffordable.
Entrusted with the responsibility, Sulabh International swiftly intervened. Dr. Pathak's firsthand experience in Vrindavan exposed the harrowing conditions these widows endured, leaving him appalled. He immediately initiated change by offering a monthly stipend of 2,000 rupees ($30) to each widow, fostering security and autonomy. This stipend, directly provided to them, empowered the widows to manage their resources independently.
Sulabh's comprehensive support extended beyond financial aid. Ambulances, regular health checkups, and skill-training programs were introduced. The widows gained access to learning essential skills like reading, writing, embroidery, and candle making. Dr. Pathak's unwavering commitment transformed their lives, reclaiming dignity and providing them with the tools to rebuild their futures.
Starting in 2013, Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak spearheaded an annual Holi celebration with widows, challenging deeply ingrained customs that restrict their lives. Despite existing norms that deny widows in India the chance to remarry, partake in festivals, or wear colorful attire, Pathak's rebellious initiative has shattered these barriers.
His audacious act sparked a nation-wide conversation, igniting discourse about dismantling rigid traditions that rob widows of the same opportunities enjoyed by other women. By leading widows in vibrant Holi celebrations, Pathak not only offered them a chance to revel in the joy of the festival but also challenges the deeply embedded gender biases that have long marginalized them.
"Sanitation is my religion. If you have not helped another human being you have not prayed to God yet."
Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak in an interview to BBC
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