Anadwan
Set up by Templeton and Magsaysay award winner Baba Amte, Anandwan institution in Warora village in Wardha district in western Indian state of Maharashtra has a separate section looking after leprosy patients. Called Maharog Sewa Samiti (MSS), the section established in 1949 by Amte provides medical services to leprosy afflicted and physically challenged people. Over 1,500 leprosy afflicted stay and work at Anandwan, and eat the food cooked at a community kitchen.
This photo feature looks at hands of the leprosy-afflicted, and how their self-respect and love at Anandwan has transformed their lives. Many of them were ostracized by the society, but after moving to Anandwan they do their own work with their hands, and lead happy lives.