MONDAY, APRIL 29, 2024
Team Herald
MARGAO: Freedom fighter and founder of MARG (Movement for Amity towards Roads in Goa) Trust Gurunath Kelekar died at the age of 91. He breathed his last at 3.30am on Tuesday in the Capital city where he was staying with his daughters.
Kelekar’s mortal remains will be kept for final respects at his house near Hari Mandir in Pajifond between 9.30 am and 11.30 am on Wednesday, after which the final rites will be conducted at the Margao Mathagramastha Hindusabha crematorium.
Several personalities of Goa have condoled the death of Gurunath Kelekar who was known for being a staunch follower of Gandhian principles and an ardent admirer of Nehruvian philosophy, Konkani lover, thinker, writer in addition to being a Freedom Fighter and founder of Marg.
“Gurunathbab remained young at work till his last breath. His immense contribution to Goa Freedom Movement, Marg Abhiyaan, Nehru Centre, Konkani Movement and spreading values of Gandhian ideology will always be remembered and will keep inspiring and motivating generations to come,” said Opposition Leader and former Chief Minister Digambar Kamat.
Gurunath Kelekar had taken part in the Goa Freedom Struggle at the tender age of 21 and was lodged in the Aguada jail for 13 months in 1954. He has also been awarded for several of his works as a litterateur.
Prashant Naik, who had become president of the MARG in a trust wrote on a social media post, said he spoke to Gurunath Kelekar just the previous night before he died.
"I have lost my ideological guru, guide, and philosopher, I am shattered today,” said Girish Chodankar, GPCC president.
Recalling his very close association with Gurunathbab for the last 25 years, Chodankar said he had a significant role to play in shaping him up as a social activist and politician on the path of Gandhian and Nehruvian principles. “I feel fortunate having got an opportunity to work with Kelekarbab very closely,” Chodankar added.
Vijai Sardesai, GFP chief, also condoled Kelekar’s death in a tweet.
