Founder President
Sri Ranjith Naik – A noble activist of the Banjara community
Sri Ranjith Naik was a prominent and great soul who unflinchingly served towards the progress and well-being of the Banjara Parivar. The guiding force for the Banjara Parivar in the country, Sri Ranjith Naik pioneered several rehabilitation activities for the economically weak.
Sri Ranjith Naik, son of Sri Bhagat Champla Naik, was born in the year 1934, in the village of Naginayanicheruvu Tanda in Somandepalli Mandal of Anantapur district in Andhra Pradesh.
In 1964, he graduated from JJ College of Architecture in Mumbai. One of the most renowned architect, Sri Ranjith Naik’s inclination for social work began at the age of 19. He was instrumental in working towards the inclusion of Banjaras in the list of Scheduled tribes, in the constitution of India. His steadfast efforts in various socio-economic and cultural activities of All India Banjara Seva Sangh (AIBSS) led to several positive changes in the organization and the Parivar. He led delegations, delivered lectures at prominent seminars, forums and published several papers and articles related to the Parivar. As the president of AIBSS, Sri Ranjith Naik toured all the Indian states to successfully bring the Banjara Parivar together with a common identity and purpose. In recognition of his service, he was awarded UNCHS 1998 awards for ‘’Excellence in improving living environment’’ by United Nations’ Habitat-II. In recognition of his distinguished services to the nation, Sri Ranjith Naik was also conferred “Great Son of the Soil millennium” award by the All India Conference of Intellectuals held on December 30, 1998.
His wife Chandrakala Naik, a teacher by profession is an active social worker and the first Banjara lady graduate in the state of Maharashtra. Through her constant efforts, she supported her husband in various initiatives towards the upliftment of the Banjara Parivar.
As the founding president of Santh Sri Sevalal Baba charitable Trust, he undertook the mission of highlighting the virtues of Santh Sri Sevalal Baba, the spiritual guru of Banjaras. His hard work and dedication paid off with the establishment of Santh Sri Sevalal Baba charitable Trust formed in the year 2001.
One of the foremost champions of the Banjara Parivar, Sri Ranjith Naik dedicated his life for the upliftment of welfare of his Parivar through his sincere efforts. After an active career as an architect, social worker, and founder of Santh Sri Sevalal Baba charitable Trust, Sri Ranjith Naik left for heavenly abode on July 30, 2004. Sri Ranjith Naik’s Samadhi (memorial) was built at Sevagad. Many pilgrims who visit Sevagad for the darshan of Sevalal Baba, also visit the memorial to offer floral tributes.