Latatai Sakat
| Latatai Sakat | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | 24 May 1964 Mata Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar, Ghatkopar, Mumbai |
| Died | 9 February 2011 |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Social Activist |
| Organization | Maharashtra Niradhar Devadasi Mahila Sanghatana |
| Known for | Eradication of Devadasi system, Rights of marginalized women |
| Legacy | 'Late Latatai Sakat Award' (Government of Maharashtra) |
Latatai Sakat (24 May 1964 – 9 February 2011) was an Indian social activist from Maharashtra. She was the founder-president of the Maharashtra Niradhar Devadasi Mahila Sanghatana. She dedicated her life to the welfare of marginalized communities, specifically focusing on the eradication of the Devadasi practice and the rehabilitation of destitute women.
In recognition of her work, the Government of Maharashtra instituted a state-level award in her name, the **"Divangat Latatai Sakat Puraskar"** (Late Latatai Sakat Award).
Early life
Sakat was born on 24 May 1964 in Mata Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar, Ghatkopar, Mumbai, into a family facing severe economic hardships. To support her family during her childhood, she worked as a domestic helper and delivered milk. Her early experiences with poverty and social inequality motivated her to pursue social activism later in life.
Social activism
Influenced by the ideologies of B. R. Ambedkar, Jyotirao Phule, and Savitribai Phule, Sakat worked extensively for the downtrodden. She was mentored by the Ambedkarite leader Vilas Rupwate.
Through her organization, the Maharashtra Niradhar Devadasi Mahila Sanghatana, she campaigned for:
- The legal and social rehabilitation of Devadasis, Jogtis, and Muralis.
- The rights of widows, abandoned women, and the Waghya-Murali community.
- Justice for transgender people and marginalized tribal groups.
She organized numerous protests and rallies at Shivaji Park and Azad Maidan in Mumbai to draw government attention to these issues.
Legacy and State Award
Following her death, the **Department of Women and Child Development**, Government of Maharashtra, established a state-level award in her honor.
- **Award Name:** Divangat Latatai Sakat Puraskar (Late Latatai Sakat Award).
- **Purpose:** The award is given to social activists and NGOs that have done exemplary work in the field of **Devadasi eradication and rehabilitation**.
- **History:** The award was instituted to be presented annually, starting from the years 2011–12 and 2012–13.
- **Significance:** It is presented alongside the prestigious *Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Award*.
The initiative to name the award after her was supported by key government figures, including former Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, and Minister of Women and Child Development Varsha Gaikwad, who acknowledged her contribution to the progressive social movement in Maharashtra.
Death
Latatai Sakat died on 9 February 2011. Her legacy continues through the state awards and the ongoing work of the organizations she established.