Bapurao Tajne Dug a Well in 40 Days After His Wife Was Denied Water Due to Caste Discrimination

In 2016, a humble laborer from Maharashtra’s Washim district, Bapurao Tajne, became a symbol of silent protest and resilience. After his wife was humiliated and denied water from a village well because of her caste, Bapurao took it upon himself to dig a well — alone — and did it in just 40 days.

This story is not just about a well; it is about dignity, determination, and fighting caste discrimination with quiet strength.

What Happened

• Incident: Bapurao’s wife went to fetch water from a well owned by an upper-caste family in Kalambeshwar village. She was denied access and insulted because they belonged to a marginalized Dalit community.
• Bapurao’s Decision: Deeply hurt, instead of confronting the family or resorting to violence, Bapurao chose a constructive path — he decided to dig a well in his own backyard so his family would never have to ask for water again.

The Impossible Feat

• Work Done Alone: Without any help or machinery, Bapurao started digging by hand. Neighbors mocked him, calling it a futile effort.
• Sheer Determination: Working daily, he dug tirelessly for 40 days straight.
• Result: Miraculously, he struck water at about 15 feet, creating a well that not only served his family but eventually benefited the entire Dalit locality in the village.

Why It Matters

• A Stand Against Caste Discrimination: The act powerfully demonstrated that dignity can be reclaimed through action, even in the face of deeply rooted social injustice.
• Empowerment Through Self-Reliance: Instead of accepting humiliation or continuing dependence on those who discriminated, Bapurao showed that marginalized communities can build their own solutions.
• Community Impact: Once completed, the well became a source of pride and a crucial water source for many who were also denied access elsewhere.

Reactions & Recognition

• His story spread across India, inspiring many.
• Social activists and local media praised his courage and spirit.
• It highlighted the persistent problem of caste-based untouchability, especially in rural India, and sparked wider conversations on social inclusion.