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The Inspiring Legacy of Sarala Punyashram

Origins and Founding:

Sarala Punyashram was founded in 1927 by Acharya Beni Madhab Das, a revered philosopher, teacher, and patriot. Initially named ‘Punyashram’, it was later renamed ‘Sarala Punyashram’ in 1940 as a tribute to his wife, Sarala Debi. Acharya Das dedicated himself to instilling values of patriotism, integrity, and discipline in his students. His most notable student was Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, who, in his memoir ‘Bharat Pathik’, acknowledged the profound influence of his mentor, Acharya Beni Madhab Das, in shaping his understanding of patriotism and humanitarian compassion.

Sarala Debi’s Contributions and Family Involvement:

Sarala Debi, a devoted mother and homemaker, dedicated her life to uplifting women who were widowed, orphaned, or abandoned by their families. Under her vision, the Ashram evolved into a sanctuary for these vulnerable women, offering them shelter and vital support. During India's struggle for independence, Sarala Punyashram emerged as a refuge for women freedom fighters and nurtured numerous individuals who contributed significantly to India’s independence movement.

Both the daughters of Acharya Das and Sarala Debi – Kalyani Das and Bina Das – were freedom fighters. Kalyani Das (1907-1983) was a leading social activist and revolutionary worker. Apart from her political activities for which she went to jail, she was associated with Sarala Punyashram all her life. Bina Das (1911-1986) shot into prominence when she fired her pistol at the governor of Bengal, Stanley Jackson, in 1932, at the annual convocation meeting of Calcutta University. The attempt failed but she was sentenced to nine years’ imprisonment.

Continuing the Mission:

Following Acharya Das's era, his remarkable legacy was carried forward by the daughters Kalyani Das (Bhattacharya) and Bina Das (Bhowmik), along with his daughter-in-law, Smt. Sudha Das. Their efforts were further supported by the contributions of notable social workers, including Ashoka Gupta, Arati Srimal, Gouri Ayub, Sushma Masood, and Chitralekha Niyogi, who played pivotal roles in advancing the Ashram's mission of social welfare.

Welfare activities centering Sarala Punyashram declined gradually over the next few decades and by the beginning of the current century it stopped due to neglect, lack of interest and fund.

Revival and Growth:

After the Ashram endured a challenging period of neglect lasting over one and a half decades, the AIM Foundation intervened and took the responsibility to restore the dilapidated structures in 2023. The main building was renovated, physical structures restored, and the activities of the Ashram was revived by AIM Foundation over the period of next two years. Efforts of AIM Foundation brought new life into the historic institution and revitalized its welfare activities.

Sarala Punyashram Today:

Sarala Punyashram today flourishes as a dynamic and vibrant centre for women and child welfare and development programs, women empowerment, healthcare, and environmental initiatives, steadfastly upholding the beliefs and principles established by its founders Acharya Beni Madhab Das and Sarala Debi.

A Beacon of Inspiration:

The enduring legacy of Sarala Punyashram stands as a beacon of service, resilience, and transformation – standing as a symbol of empowerment and hope, inspiring many more generations to come.