Union home minister Amit Shah confers Maharashtra Bhushan Award to social worker Appasaheb Dharmadhikar

NAVI MUMBAI: Union home minister Amit Shah on Sunday conferred the state’s highest civilian award Maharashtra Bhushan to spiritual guru and renowned social worker Appasaheb Dharmadhikari at Kharghar in Navi Mumbai.
Addressing a gathering, Shah said Appasaheb made a difference in the lives of millions of people across the country.

Hailing Appashab, Shah added that Dharmadhikaris had made history by being the first family to receive the "Maharashtra Bhushan" twice — once for his father Nanasaheb Dharmadhikari in 2008 and again for himself.
Over 20 lakh followers of Dharmadhikari flocked to the event.
Deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said ‘Maharashtra Bhushan’ award to Appasaheb Dharmadikari is an expression of gratitude by the state government for the priceless contribution rendered by the iconic social worker.
He further added that the selfless social work by lakhs of Dharmadikari followers in various areas has set a classic example for many to follow.
Chief minister Eknath Shinde said, “I am proud to be a member of Shree Bhakt and giving the award to Appasaheb, who has been my mentor, will be an event to be remembered forever. This was a great moment for me and it was well awaited”.
Appreciating the award, Appasaheb donated the prize money of Rs 25 lakh to the Chief Minister’s Fund.