Nagpur: Senior activist of the Vidarbha Rajya Andolan Samiti (VRAS), Ranjanatai Mamarde, passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest at her residence in Amravati on Wednesday afternoon. She was 68.
End of an Era for Vidarbha Movement
Mamarde, popularly known as 'Vidarbha Veerangana', died at her home 'Shashi Shankar Vastu' in Jairam Nagar, Rajapeth, Amravati, around 1:30 pm. Her demise marks a significant loss for the movement demanding a separate Vidarbha state.
Role in the Statehood Movement
As the state president of the VRAS women's wing, Mamarde was instrumental in mobilizing women across the region. She worked tirelessly to bring rural and urban women into the agitation, encouraging many to take up leadership roles within the organization. Her grassroots connect and ability to highlight issues of regional imbalance, farmers' distress, and development concerns framed the demand for statehood as a matter of social and economic justice.
Tributes Pour In
VRAS president Wamanrao Chatap expressed grief, stating, "Despite having a pacemaker implanted in January 2024, Ranjanatai remained relentlessly active in the Vidarbha movement. Her unwavering commitment and tireless work for the cause will remain unforgettable." Mukesh Masurkar, president of the VRAS youth wing, added, "Ranjanatai's demise is a significant loss to the movement. Her devotion to the cause will continue to inspire activists."
Funeral Details
The last rites of Ranjanatai Mamarde will be performed at 11 am on Thursday at the Hindu crematorium in Amravati.
