Navaratnas of Professional Social Work in India :Women Social Workers Who Changed Millions of Lives - Dr. Ruth Manorama

Special Articles / M.H. Ramesha / Social Work Foot Prints, Vol.VI, Issue.1

My association with Dr. Ruth Manorama dates back to 1973, when my former student R.S.Anbarasan brought Ruth and her classmate Karuna David to introduce me to them . It was at the MSSW. Slowly our friendship became more informal because of the affable nature of Ruth and Karuna. They both were also  regular visitors to my home. I always felt that Ruth would be a mass leader one day as she carried herself with immense self-assurance even as a student.Sh had definite views on all social issues and she articulated her points of opinion with conviction. Ruth has been in the centre stage of Dalit activism and empowerment of Dalit women for nearly four decades. Her spheres of action extend beyond national boundaries and she is an active figure in the global action for liberation of the oppressed. The prestigious Right Livelihood Award was the confirmation of the global recognition of her relentless struggle for the liberation of the Dalits and more so the Dalit women. I am sure the government of India will soon honour her with suitable Padma awards. The Nobel Prize for Peace one day will be a worthy stimulus to the optimism of Ruth Manorama in the pursuit of her goal.

Dr.T.K.Nair
Professor of social work and
Former Principal, MSSW.

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