What if the greatest treasure in the world wasn’t wealth, fame, or power—but the ability to change a life?

Some people don’t just live for themselves; they become a beacon of hope for others. Today, we bring you the extraordinary story of Padma Shri Dr. Shankarbaba Pundlikrao Papalkar, a man who didn’t just shelter orphaned children but empowered them to stand on their own feet.

In 1990, when Baba received a piece of wasteland in Vajjhar, Maharashtra, people doubted his vision. But he saw potential where others saw nothing. What began with four daughters has now grown into a family of over 120 children, many of whom hold jobs, run businesses, and have built their own futures.

For them, he wasn’t just a caretaker—he became their father in every sense. Their official documents bear his name, proving that love, not blood, defines a family.

Beyond shelter, he provided education, dignity, and opportunities. Baba’s greatest achievement is hearing his children say—“We are not orphans. We have Baba.”

About Padma PridePadma Pride is an inspiring audio series by The Good Sight and Rise Against Hunger India, celebrating Padma Awardees and their extraordinary impact. Every Sunday, webring you the story of a changemaker shaping India’s future. (Narration: Shalini Singh, The Good Sight).

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