Birth Anniversary of C. Rajagopalachari | 12 Dec 2024

Source: PIB

Why in News?

The Prime Minister of India, paid tribute to Shri Chakravarti Rajagopalachari (popularly known as Rajaji) on his birth anniversary (10^th December), remembering his invaluable contributions to India’s freedom struggle, governance, and social empowerment.

Who Was C. Rajagopalachari?

• Early Life and Education: C. Rajagopalachari was born on 10^th December 1878 in Salem, Madras Province (now Tamil Nadu). Became a Bachelor of Law in 1899 and began his legal practice in Salem.
• Politics and Social Reforms: Rajagopalachari was deeply affected by Lord Curzon’s decision to partition Bengal on communal lines and was inspired by Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak’s call for complete independence.
  • Joined the Indian National Congress (INC) and actively participated in India’s freedom struggle.
  • In 1917, Rajagopalachari became Chairman of Salem Municipality, focused on social welfare of backward classes, and in 1925, he established an Ashram in Madras Province for social upliftment.
    • The Ashram published two magazines, Vimochanam (Tamil) and Prohibition (English).
• Freedom Struggle: During the anti-Rowlatt agitation, Rajaji hosted Mahatma Gandhi in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
  • In 1930, during the Dandi March, Rajagopalachari led the Salt March in Madras Province from Tiruchi to Vedaranyam (also known as Vedaranyam Satyagraha).
    • His arrest during Vedaranyam Satyagraha gained him national recognition as a leader in the independence movement.
  • After the Quit India movement, Rajagopalachari's pamphlet "The Way Out" outlined the C. R. Formula to resolve the constitutional deadlock between the Muslim League and the INC regarding a separate Muslim state.
• Prime Minister of Madras Province: In 1937, Rajagopalachari became the Prime Minister of Madras Province.
  • Implemented social and economic reforms, including the promotion of Khadi, the abolition of Zamindari, and the introduction of Hindi in schools.
  • Focused on raising the standard of living for Dalits and promoting social equity.
• Post-Independence Contributions: Rajagopalachari was appointed the Governor of West Bengal and later the first Indian Governor-General of Independent India in 1947 (the office was permanently abolished in 1950).
  • Worked to integrate Muslims into the national mainstream and maintain India’s secular fabric.
  • Served as Union Home Minister after Sardar Patel's death and played a significant role in key national issues, including the preparation of the First Five-Year Plan.
  • In 1959, Rajagopalachari founded the Swatantra Party, advocating for a market economy and less government control.
  • In 1962, Rajaji led a Gandhi Peace Foundation delegation to the US, urging a ban on nuclear tests.
  • Rajagopalachari wrote a Tamil translation of the Ramayana, titled Chakravarthi Thirumagan, which won the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1958.
• Legacy: Shri C. Rajagopalachari was awarded ‘Bharat Ratna’ in 1954. He was the first to receive the highest civilian award.
  • Rajagopalachari passed away on 25^th December 1972.