Looking Back

by Dhondo Keshav Karve

An autobiographical work by Dhondo Keshav Karve, popularly known as Maharshi Karve. Karve was a social reformer in India in the field of women's welfare.

Unknown Binding

Published January 1, 1936

Reviews

[Prabhat sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Looking Back by Dhondo Keshav Karve- autobiography- Dhondo Keshav Karve (18 April 1858 – 9 November 1962) was born on 18 April 1858, at Sheravali, in Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra. Author has mentioned the difficulties of rural life in his village. There were no roads, mode of public transport had not been developed by the Government. Author and his friends had to appear for the High School exam at district Ratnagiri. First alternate was to move by ship to Bombay and then move to Ratnagiri. It started raining. It was not possible that ship could proceed further. They walked 120- kms distance on foot. On reaching the examination centre, the invigilator said that author does not appear to be of 17 years of age, therefore, he cannot appear for the exam. Author showed his school certificate showing his date of birth but it was not accepted. Author waited for another year to appear for this exam. Author moved to Bombay for further education. As he could not afford to stay in a school hostel, he rented accommodation, cooked for himself, took tuitions, paid his fees and completed his graduation. For MA exam in Physics and Chemistry, author failed. His father's name was Keshav Bapunna Karve. In 1884, he graduated with a degree in mathematics from Elphinstone College, Bombay. Author got a call from a friend to came and teach Mathematics at Fergusson College, Pune. Thus, during 1891–1914, Karve taught mathematics at Fergusson College in Pune, Maharashtra. Author’s wife expired and he married a widow. He faced difficulties from the society. Author established Hindu widows Home Association. He established a school for widowed girls, another school for girls. With the help for grant from Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thakersay Indian Women’s University, Bombay was established. In 1929, he visited Europe, America and Japan. During these travels, he met Albert Einstein. During this world tour, he also raised funds for the university. was a social reformer in India in the field of women's welfare. He advocated widow remarriage and he himself married a widow. Karve was a pioneer in promoting widows' education. He founded the first women's university in India, the SNDT Women's University in 1916. The Government of India awarded him with the highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, in 1958, the year of his 100th birthday. He organized a conference against the practice of devdasi. He started 'Anath balikashram' an orphanage for girls. His intention was to give education to all women and make them stand on their own feet. Through his efforts, the first women university was set up in 20th century. The book can be read as a history of struggles for women education in India. This is a class book for all to read.

[Keshav Tiwari · Rating 3 out of 5]

Three stars for the writing which isn't very good. For those who don't know Maharshi Karve played a huge role in promoting widow remarried and education in Pune and neighbouring areas.