Bindeshwar Pathak, a prominent campaigner and social reformer, passed away at the age of 80, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the field of sanitation in India. Pathak revolutionized the concept of toilets with his cheap twin-pit toilet design, which has been instrumental in providing clean sanitation facilities to hundreds of thousands of homes across the country. His Sulabh Foundation also played a crucial role in establishing pay-per-use toilets in Indian cities, catering to the needs of millions of people. Pathak’s contributions extended beyond sanitation, as he worked tirelessly to challenge the deep-rooted caste discrimination prevalent in India and uplift manual scavengers, predominantly Dalits. Throughout his lifetime, Pathak received numerous prestigious Indian and global awards, earning him titles such as “Mr Sanitation” and “The Toilet Man of India.”
Pathak’s journey toward social reform began with his childhood experiences. Growing up in an upper-caste Brahmin family, he witnessed firsthand the unforgiving realities of India’s caste system. He vividly recalled an incident where his curiosity led him to touch a woman considered “untouchable” in his village. This act of defiance against societal norms resulted in outrage, with Pathak being subjected to purification rituals and forced to consume cow dung and urine. This traumatic experience served as a turning point for him, igniting his determination to address social inequalities and create change.
Motivated by his deep-seated understanding of social injustice, Pathak pursued sociology in college, aiming to contribute to the betterment of society. His dedication and commitment led him to spend three months in a Dalit colony, a decision that brought immense disappointment and criticism from his family and community. Despite facing backlash and being disowned by his father-in-law, Pathak remained resolute and prioritized his mission over personal relationships. In 1969, he achieved a breakthrough by designing a twin-pit toilet that liberated manual scavengers from their degrading occupation of cleaning excrement with their hands.
The impact of Pathak’s revolutionary twin-pit toilets cannot be overstated. The government of Bihar recognized the value of his innovation and commissioned him to build 200 toilets. This marked the beginning of widespread adoption of Pathak’s design, with influential individuals seeking his expertise and advice. Today, the Sulabh Foundation has constructed over 1.5 million toilets, catering to the needs of more than 20 million people in India. The twin-pit toilet design has also been replicated in various parts of the world. Additionally, the foundation has established over 9,000 “pay-and-use” toilets in urban slums and public spaces, combating the prevalent issue of unhygienic bathrooms in the country.
Pathak’s work holds immense significance for Indian society, particularly for women who previously lacked access to clean toilets in crowded public places. His efforts have empowered millions of Indian women, enabling them to overcome the challenges of inadequate sanitation facilities and exercise control over their bodily functions.
The impact of Bindeshwar Pathak’s achievements transcends the realm of sanitation, as he fought against deeply ingrained caste discrimination and uplifted marginalized communities. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of individuals to bring about transformative change, even in the face of adversity. Pathak’s dedication to social reform, inspired by the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, reinforces the significance of compassion, equality, and justice in creating a more inclusive society.
As we reflect on the remarkable contributions of Bindeshwar Pathak, it is essential to recognize the continued importance of addressing sanitation issues globally. Access to clean toilets and proper sanitation facilities remains a challenge for numerous communities worldwide, affecting health, dignity, and overall well-being. Governments, non-governmental organizations, and individuals must work together to ensure equitable access to sanitation, particularly for marginalized populations. Pathak’s legacy serves as a reminder that social change is possible through innovation, compassion, and a commitment to uplift the most vulnerable among us.
