Nirmala Deshpande was an eminent Indian social activist, known for her unwavering commitment to peace, nonviolence, and community service. Born in 1929 in Nagpur, she was deeply influenced by the Gandhian philosophy from a young age, a guiding principle that shaped her life's work. After completing her education, including a Master's degree in Mathematics, she chose to dedicate herself to social work rather than pursuing a conventional career. This commitment led her to join Vinoba Bhave's Bhoodan movement, a land reform initiative aimed at persuading landowners to voluntarily donate land to landless laborers.

Deshpande's work extended beyond land redistribution. She became a tireless advocate for communal harmony, working extensively to bridge divides between different religious and cultural groups in India. Recognizing the importance of dialogue and understanding, she organized numerous peace marches and conferences, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to foster reconciliation and mutual respect. Her efforts were particularly significant during periods of heightened communal tension, where she actively worked to deescalate conflicts and promote peaceful coexistence.

Furthermore, Deshpande was a strong proponent of nuclear disarmament and actively campaigned against nuclear weapons. She believed in the power of nonviolent resistance to address global issues and worked to promote peace and understanding on an international scale. Her dedication to Gandhian principles and her tireless efforts to promote social justice and peace earned her numerous awards and accolades, solidifying her legacy as a prominent figure in Indian social activism. She passed away in 2008, leaving behind a rich legacy of service and a continued inspiration for those working towards a more peaceful and just world.