Gandhians offer condolences to Nirmala Deshpande

Mumbai, May 10 (UNI) Gandhians from various walks of life today offered condolences and their last respects to Gandhian and Parliamentarian Nirmala Deshpande, who breathed her last on May 1.

In a condolence meeting, organised by various Gandhian groups, Deshpande was remembered for her work in the society and for the uplift of human beings.

Parliamentarian and the president of the Republican Party of India Ramdas Athawale said Deshpande was a very good human being and a keen follower of Vinoba Bhave, who had worked very hard for welfare of the society.

''Deshpande was a woman of substance and was in the league of Mother Teresa, Vinoba Bhave and other great human beings, who worked for the betterment of mankind,'' he said.

Marathi daily Loksatta Editor Kumar Ketkar also said she was inspired by Vinoba Bhave to a very large extent.

Many political leaders including Maharashtra chief minister Vilasrao Deshmukh and state Assembly speaker Babasaab Kuppekar were expected for the condolence meet, but could not attend.

Deshpande, who was born on October 19, 1929 started her social work very early in life.

Her last remains were kept in a 'kalash' (urn) during the condolence meet.

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