Dr Rajendra Prasad, known as the first President of India, was highly regarded as a statesman, a prominent figure in the freedom movement, and a crucial figure in the Indian independence movement. His efforts and lifetime contributions greatly transformed the era India had once witnessed.
Dr Rajendra Prasad Childhood Life and Education
Dr Rajendra Prasad was born on the 3rd of December, Back in 1884, in a village – Ziradei which is in Siwan, Bihar, India. He was born in an orthodox Kayastha family. His father, Mahadev Sahai was a scholar in Persian and Sanskrit, and his mother Kamleshwari Devi was a deeply religious housewife who profoundly contributed to his spiritual formation.
From a very young age, Rajendra Prasad was an intelligent student. He attended his local school for his primary education before relocating to Chapra for the continuation of his studies. When he turned twelve, he wed Rajvanshi Devi while still adhering to the customs of that era. His academic success did not dwindle as he also passed the entrance examination for the University of Calcutta, topping the respective examinations. Due to this, he was granted a scholarship that assisted him in his further studies.
He enrolled in the Presidency College, Calcutta for his Bachelor of Arts degree and further, completed his Master of Arts in economics at the University of Calcutta. His commitment towards education did not go unnoticed as he later on even completed his doctorate in law proving to be amongst the top scholars of that era.
Dr Rajendra Prasad Contribution To the Indian Freedom Struggle
Rajendra Prasad was profoundly influenced by Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy supporting ahimsa and civil disobedience. In 1917, he was part of the Champaran Satyagraha which ardently aimed to solve the issues faced by the indigo farmers residing in Bihar. This began his political journey with the Indian National Congress where he fought for freedom from the British Empire’s colonial rule.
He gave up his legal career during the Non-Cooperation Movement which took place in 1920 and was prominent in the activities for the promotion of Indian independence. Internally along with being a member of the Indian National Congress, he strategized Swadeshi propaganda and a nationwide campaign while strengthening the IC.
This led him towards being part of many movements such as the Salt Satyagraha and the Quit India. His determination allowed him to gain a position of high authority and respect among his colleagues and the people.
Dr Rajendra Prasad: Role in Constituent Assembly and Presidency
In 1947 when India gained independence, Rajendra Prasad was pivotal in the development of the new nation. He was voted as The President of the Constituent Assembly which worked along with Dr. B. R. Ambedkar and other prominent leaders to draft the Constitution of India. With his moderate and diplomatic skills, he had in the end succeeded in putting together an inclusive and progressive Constitution.
It was on 26th January 1950 when Dr. Rajendra Prasad was appointed as the first President of India when the country was declared a Republic. His tenure as president was characterized by extreme simplicity, a humble state of being and a strong loyalty to the interest of the people. He has served two continuous terms from 1950 till 1962 making him the longest serving president in India.
Dr Rajendra Prasad Contributions and Legacy
Dr. Rajendra Prasad not only served in politics and the Indian parliament but also was engaged in writing a great deal of prose. He was an exceptional scholar. Some of his notable works include:
Satyagraha at Champaran
Bapu Ke Kadmon Mein
He is the author of these books which are a testimony to his extensive understanding of Indian culture, history and social polity.
Additionally, he has worked as an educator in rural areas and promoted rural growth. During his presidency, Prasad took on national integration in India and the general welfare of the underprivileged classes.
Dr Rajendra Prasad Personal Life and Values
Dr Rajendra Prasad was a man of great worth because he is often referred to as a man who is both humble and simple. Prasad was also a devotee of ethics and grounded as a person in a Gandhian vision of leading a simple and modest life. Selfless service, truth and nonviolence were a few ethics that he followed.
Low key was how he lived when Patna, his hometown was concerned and he did so for a while as well, only after he served two of his terms as the nation’s President. His homecoming followed his demise which occurred on the 28th of February, 1962 at the age of 77. He now rests as a patriot while leading a life defined by integrity and servitude.
Dr Rajendra Prasad Honours and Recognition
Dr Rajendra Prasad remains an inspiring figure for many even in the modern age while looking at his life eagerly across generations which were defined by principles like justice, equality, and nurturing a nation. One of the greatest contributors that Prasad made was in 1962 when he was and remains awarded the Bharat Ratna.
Conclusion
The major role played by Dr Rajendra Prasad in the making of the constitution and Leading the country as the first-ever president earns him the respect of sitting at the top macroscale of Indian history. To witness his true legacy, all one has to do is look up to his life- one based on integrity, education, and selfless servitude.