Khedekar Sudkoji Baburao, affectionately known as "Dadasaheb Khedekar," was born on 9 July 1910, in Khed village, Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra, into a humble family. His formal education concluded with matriculation, after which he laboured in a Mumbai mill for a decade to support his family, marrying at just 15 years old. It was during this period in Mumbai that he witnessed the Civil Disobedience Movement firsthand, fostering a deep sense of patriotism within him.
Following his father's passing when he was 21, Khedekar Sudkoji returned to his native village to carry on his father's trade as a leather worker. Yet, his time in Bombay had ignited a passion for national service within him. Engrossed in newspapers, he gradually delved into social issues, eventually becoming involved in social work in Khed and earning the title of "Nagarpita" from its residents due to his national character.
Inspired by Gandhi, Khedekar Sudkoji actively participated in the 'Chale Jav' movement of 1942, resulting in his arrest and imprisonment in Ratnagiri Sub Jail. It was during this confinement that he encountered renowned Maharashtra patriots such as Pandit Vakil, Athalye Guruji and Gangadhar Deshpande, as well as underground activists like Sane Guruji and Achyut Rao Patwardhan.
Despite his incarceration, his influence remained strong. In 1943, he contested and won re-election to the municipality from his jail cell. Additionally, he established the Dapoli Congress Committee circa 1946-1947. His dedication to public service led to his election as an MLA in 1946 and he was re-elected in 1952.
Khedekar Sudkoji Baburao passed away on 14 January 1977.
Name mentioned in Gazetteer Government of Maharashtra.
Source: Vijay Balasaheb Pawbake, Contributor for CCRT.