Introduction:
Shantha Dange is a renowned social worker who has dedicated her life to fighting for the rights of underprivileged women and children in India. She has made an indelible mark in the social work arena, and her contributions to society inspire people worldwide.

Section 1: Childhood and Early Life
Shantha was born in the city of Kolhapur, Maharashtra, in 1952. She hails from a well-educated family and was a bright student since her school days. Shantha completed her college education from Belgaum and went on to pursue a Master’s degree in social work from Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Bombay.

Section 2: Early Career and Activism
Shantha began her social work journey in 1976, where she started working as a social worker at a women’s rights organization called Vimochana. She served the organization for 13 years, where she spearheaded various women-centric issues such as property rights, domestic violence, and sexual harassment. Shantha also worked extensively on child labor, rehabilitation, and education.

Section 3: Founding of Manodaya Trust
Shantha’s relentless efforts in social work drove her to establish the Manodaya Trust in 1991. Manodaya Trust is a non-profit organization that works on issues such as women’s rights, child labor, education, environment, and rural development. Through Manodaya Trust, Shantha has helped thousands of underprivileged girls and women to lead a dignified life.

Section 4: Rehabilitation of Devadasi Women in Karnataka
Devadasi is a system prevalent in several parts of India, including Karnataka, where young girls are dedicated to the local temple goddess and forced into sex work. Shantha has worked extensively to rehabilitate these girls and provide them with a stable life. She has helped over 15,000 Devadasi women through the Manodaya Trust.

Section 5: Education for Girl Children
Shantha has emphasized the importance of educating the girl child, which is crucial in bringing about social change. The Manodaya Trust runs several programs that focus on educating young girls, especially from underprivileged backgrounds, and empowering them to take charge of their lives.

Section 6: Human Rights Activism
Shantha has been a fierce advocate for Human Rights, and her activism has led her to serve on several national and international committees. Shantha is a member of the National Human Rights Commission and has served as the Executive Director of the Human Rights and Documentation Centre.

Section 7: Awards, Accolades, and Recognition
With her exceptional work in social welfare, Shantha has been the recipient of several national and international awards, including the Padma Shri in 2018, the fourth-highest civilian award in India, and the Nari Shakti Puraskar, the highest honor for women in India.

Section 8: Legacy and Impact
Shantha Dange’s efforts in social work have left a lasting impact on the lives of thousands of people, especially women and children, who have benefitted from her work through Manodaya Trust. Her contributions to the upliftment of society serve as an inspiration to many and continue to drive positive change.

Conclusion:
Shantha Dange’s trailblazing journey is a testimony to what one can achieve through dedication, hard work, and passion for a noble cause. Her remarkable work has made a significant impact on Indian society, and her story should inspire people worldwide to work towards making this world a better place.

FAQs:

Q1) What is the Manodaya Trust?
A1) The Manodaya Trust is a non-profit organization established by Shantha Dange that works towards women’s rights, child labor, education, environment, and rural development.

Q2) What is Devadasi?
A2) Devadasi is a system prevalent in several parts of India, including Karnataka, where young girls are dedicated to the local temple goddess and forced into sex work.

Q3) What is the Padma Shri award?
A3) The Padma Shri is India’s fourth-highest civilian award, and it is conferred upon individuals for their exceptional work in various fields.

Q4) What is the Nari Shakti Puraskar award?
A4) The Nari Shakti Puraskar is the highest honor for women in India, and it is conferred upon women who have made significant contributions to society.

Q5) What are the focus areas of Manodaya Trust?
A5) Manodaya Trust focuses on issues such as women’s rights, child labor, education, environment, and rural development.