Renowned Social Activist Sanjit "Bunker" Roy Dies At 81
Sanjit "Bunker" Roy, a prominent social activist and founder of Barefoot College, has died at 81 in Tilonia, Rajasthan. He dedicated over five decades to rural development and women's empowerment, establishing an internationally recognized institution that trained villagers in practical skills like solar energy and water conservation.
Why it matters
Roy's passing marks the end of an era for a pioneering figure in grassroots development, whose Barefoot College model empowered countless rural communities and women globally through practical, non-formal education. His legacy continues to influence sustainable development approaches.
Renowned social activist and Barefoot College founder Sanjit Bunker Roy, who spent more than five decades working for rural development and women's empowerment, died at his home in Tilonia in Rajasthan's Ajmer district on Tuesday morning. He was 81.Roy breathed his last in the presence of his wife, noted social activist Aruna Roy, and others close to him, people associated with him said in a statement here."Bunker Roy passed away peacefully at 6.15 am this morning with Aruna and others around him. He went as he wanted to, in his own home in Tilonia, surrounded by some of the countless people who loved and cared for him deeply and passionately," the statement said.Activist Nikhil Dey said the funeral will take place in Tilonia at 4 pm.Roy founded the Social Work and Research Centre, popularly known as Barefoot College, in Tilonia in 1972.
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