India Leading Leaders & Their Efforts

GANDHI’S EFFORTS FOR INDEPENDENCE

PERSONAL DETAIL’S:
Full name: Mahatma Gandhi
Born: October 2, 1869
Died: January 30, 1948
Cause of death: Assassination by gunshot
Political party: Indian National Congress
Spouse(s): Kasturba Gandhi
Children: Harilal Gandhi, Manilal Gandhi, Ramdas Gandhi, Devdas
Gandhi
Mother: Putlibai Gandhi
Father: Karamchand Gandhi
Alma mater: University College London, Inner Temple
Profession: Lawyer, Politician, Activist
Awards: Time Person of the Year (1930), Nobel Peace Prize (not
awarded, but nominated multiple times

INTRODUCTION:
He was a key figure in India's fight for independence from British rule. Known for
his philosophy of nonviolent civil disobedience, he led various peaceful protests,
including the Salt March and Quit India Movement. Gandhi's teachings,
encapsulated in the concept of "Satyagraha" (truth-force), inspired civil rights
movements worldwide.

GANDHI’S EFFORTS FOR INDEPENDENCE:

1. Philosophy of Nonviolence (Ahimsa): Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolence
was central to the Indian independence movement. Gandhi's philosophy of
nonviolence, rooted in his experiences with racial discrimination in South
Africa and influenced by Eastern religious traditions, became central to his
 leadership in the Indian independence movement, advocating for peaceful
resistance as a powerful tool against oppression.

2. Quit India Movement:

- Background: The Quit India Movement, also known as the August
Movement, was launched by Gandhi and the Indian National Congress
in 1942, demanding an end to British colonial rule in India.
- Objectives: The movement aimed to achieve immediate independence
for India and to force the British government to quit India.
- Gandhi’s Role: Gandhi provided leadership and direction to the
movement, urging Indians to adopt nonviolent means to resist British
rule. He called for “Do or Die” and urged Indians to maintain discipline
and unity despite severe repression by British authorities.

3. Civil Disobedience:
- Concept: Civil disobedience involves the deliberate refusal to obey
certain laws, demands, or commands of a government or occupying
power, typically through nonviolent means.
- Examples: Gandhi employed civil disobedience tactics in various
movements, such as the Salt Satyagraha, and the Quit India Movement
etc. These campaigns involved mass protests, boycotts, strikes, and
other forms of nonviolent resistance against unjust laws and policies.

4. Swadeshi Movement:
- Background: The Swadeshi Movement was a campaign for economic
self-sufficiency and independence from British colonial rule. It
advocated for the use of indigenous goods and the boycott of British-
made products.
- Gandhi’s Influence: Gandhi played a significant role in promoting the
Swadeshi Movement as a means of asserting Indian identity and
challenging British economic exploitation. He encouraged the spinning
of khadi (homespun cloth) as a symbol of self-reliance and solidarity.
The dhoti that Gandhi always wore, typically made from khadi
(homespun cloth), represented Gandhi's push for Swadeshi, the
movement for self-sufficiency. It was a rejection of dependence on
British-made goods and a symbol of Indian economic independence.

5. Harmony:
- Interfaith Harmony: Gandhi promoted harmony among people of
different religions and communities. He believed in the unity of all
 religions and worked to bridge religious divides through dialogue,
understanding, and respect.
- Social Harmony: Gandhi also advocated for harmony within society,
emphasizing the importance of equality, justice, and compassion. He
fought against discrimination based on caste, religion, or gender and
promoted the idea of a unified, inclusive society.

6. Empowerment of Women: Gandhi advocated for the empowerment and

inclusion of women in the independence movement. He encouraged their
participation in civil disobedience campaigns and emphasized their role in
social and political spheres, helping to lay the foundation for gender equality
in independent India.

LAL BAHADUR SHASTRI

PERSONAL DETAIL’S:
Full name: Lal Bahadur Srivastava
Born: 2-October-1904 Mughalsarai, United Provinces of Agra and
Oudh, British India
(now Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, India)
Died: 11-January-1966 (aged 61) Tashkent, Uzbek SSR, Soviet Union
(present-day Uzbekistan)
Cause of death: Heart Attack
Political party: Indian National Congress
Spouse(s): Lalita Shastri (m.1928)
Children: 6; including Anil, Hari Krishna and Sunil
Mother: Ramdulari Devi
Father: Sharad Prasad Srivastava
Alma mater: Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith
Profession: Politician
Awards: Bharat Ratna (1966) (posthumous)
Education Schooling at Mughalsarai , Higher education at the Kashi
Vidyapeeth in Varanasi. Graduation from Allah Abad University
INTRODUCTION:

Lal Bahadur Shastri was an Indian politician who served as the second Prime
Minister of India. Shastri was a member of Mahatma Gandhi’s non-cooperation
movement against British government in India and was imprisoned for a short time.
He promoted the White Revolution, a national campaign to increase the production
and supply of milk, by supporting the Amul milk cooperative of Anand, Gujarat and
creating the National Dairy Development Board.

EFFORTS:
1. Made innovations in transport: Introduced women conductors and
advocated water jets.
2. White revolution: As a minister he promoted white revolution (transformed
India from a milk deficient nation into world largest milk producer).
3. Active involvement in the Salt Satyagraha: Shastri participated in the Salt
Satyagraha, a civil disobedience movement against the British salt monopoly.
He was arrested for his involvement and spent time in prison.

4. Green revolution: Also promoted green revolution (Agriculture in India was

converted into a modern industrial system by the adaption of technology such
as high quality seeds and machines).
5. Tashkent Agreement: After the Indo-Pak War of 1965, Shastri signed the
Tashkent Agreement in 1966 with Pakistani President Ayub Khan. The
agreement aimed to restore peace between India and Pakistan and included a
ceasefire and the withdrawal of troops to pre-war positions.

6. Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan: Shastri coined the slogan "Jai Jawan Jai Kisan" (Hail
the Soldier, Hail the Farmer) during the 1965 Indo-Pak war. This slogan
highlighted the importance of both the armed forces and farmers to the
nation's strength and well-being.
 Dr. BHIMRAO RAMJI AMBEDKAR

PERSONAL DETAIL’S:
Full name: Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar
Born: 14 April 1891 Mhow, Central India Agency, British India
(now Madhya Pradesh, India)
Died: 6 December 1956 (aged 65), New Delhi, India.
Cause of death: Diabetes
Political party: Independent Labour Party, Scheduled Castes Federation
Spouse(s): Ramabai Ambedkar(m.1906, died 1935)
Savita Ambedkar(m.1948)
Children: Yashwant
Mother: Bhimabai Sakpal
Father: Ramji Maloji Sakpal
Alma mater: Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith
Profession: Jurist, Economist, Politician, Social Reformer, Writer.
Awards: Bharat Ratna (1990) (posthumous)
Education • University of Mumbai(BA, MA)
• Columbia University(MA, PhD)
• London School of Economics(MSc, DSc)

INTRODUCTION:
Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, a stalwart in India's political landscape, dedicated his
life to advocating for social justice and equality, particularly for marginalized
communities like the Dalits. His relentless efforts against the caste system and
discrimination were pivotal in shaping India's democratic framework. Serving as the
Chairman of the Constitution Drafting Committee, he played a crucial role in
drafting the Constitution of India, envisioning a nation where every citizen,
regardless of caste or creed, could enjoy equal rights. Ambedkar's establishment of
political parties such as the Independent Labour Party and the Scheduled Castes
Federation provided platforms for the political representation of oppressed groups,
reflecting his commitment to securing fundamental rights and empowerment for all.
His enduring legacy as a politician and social reformer continues to inspire
movements for equality and justice globally.

EFFORTS:
1. Dr. Ambedkar, The Father of Indian Constitution:
- Appointed chairman of the drafting committee for India's Constitution
on August 29, 1947.
- Guaranteed civil liberties and rights in the Constitution.
- Passed on November 26, 1949, and came into force on January 26,
1950 (Republic Day).
- Known as the "chief architect of the Indian Constitution."
2. Baba Saheb’s Fight Against Caste Discrimination:
- Victim of social injustice from childhood due to being from the Mahar
caste.
- Fought against the caste system through movements and marches.
3. Dr. Ambedkar's Work for Spreading Education:
- Saw education as crucial for uplifting the oppressed and
underprivileged.
- Believed education was vital for social progress.
- Advocated for educated citizens to uplift marginalized groups.
4. Dr. Ambedkar's Views on Indian Economy:
- Advocated for industrialization for job creation and economic
development.
- Criticized taxation systems for burdening poorer sections.
- Proposed nationalization and collective farming to improve
agriculture.
5. Dr. Ambedkar's Work to Empower Women:
- Strong advocate for gender equality and women's rights.
- Fought for women's education, voting rights, and independence.
- Supported the Hindu Code Bill for women's property rights.
- Advocated for maternity benefits and recognized the importance of
women's dignity.
6. Legacy and Commemoration:
- Honored on Ambedkar Jayanti (April 14th) annually.
- Legacy continues to inspire millions in India and worldwide.
- Remembered as a social reformer, jurist, economist, and politician.
- Known as "Father of Indian Constitution" and "Baba Saheb."
 SARDAR VALLABH BHAI PATEL
(Iron Man Of India)

PERSONAL DETAIL’S:
Full name: Vallabhai Jhaverlal Patel
Born: 31 October 1875 Nadiad, Bombay Presidency, British India
Died: 15 December 1950 (aged 75) Bombay State, India
Cause of death: Heart attack
Political party: Indian National Congress
Spouse(s): Jhaverben Patel (1880, 11 January 1909)
Children: • Maniben Patel
• Dahyabhai Patel
Mother: Laad Bai (1847, 11 October 1932)
Father: Jhaverbhai Patel (1829, March 1914)
Alma mater: Middle Temple
Profession: Barrister, Politician, activist, and freedom fighter
Awards: Bharat Ratna Award (1991)
Education Law degree from Inns court London

INTRODUCTION:
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was a lawyer and influential political leader in the Indian
independence movement. After independence, he played an important role in the
integration of over 500 princely states into the Indian Union. He was deeply
influenced by Gandhi’s ideology and principles, having worked very closely with
the leader. He was the first Home Minister of Independent India and his
uncompromising efforts towards consolidation of the country earned him the title
"Iron Man of India".

EFFORTS:

1. Kheda Satyagraha, 1917: supporting Mahatma Gandhi's movement against

unjust land revenue taxes imposed by the British. Patel provided strong
leadership, rallying the local community through meetings and rallies, while
 also negotiating with government officials to seek a peaceful resolution to the
farmers' grievances.

2. Non-Cooperation Movement, 1920-22: mobilizing around 300,000

members and raising 1.5 million rupees. He led efforts in Ahmedabad and
Gujarat to promote the boycott of British goods, organizing bonfires to
symbolically protest colonial rule and advocating for the use of Khadi as a
symbol of self-sufficiency.

3. Bardoli Satyagraha, 1928: in response to famine and increased land taxes,

earned him the title 'Sardar.' He led the non-violent resistance, uniting the
people in complete denial of tax payments to the British, marking it as a
pivotal moment in India's independence struggle.

4. Civil Disobedience Movement, 1930-34: supporting Gandhi's protest

against British salt monopoly. He advocated boycotts, tax refusal, and
nonviolent protests, leading to his arrest and a nine-month prison sentence,
aligning himself closely with Gandhi's principles of civil disobedience.

5. Quit India Movement, 1942: organizing protests and delivering stirring

speeches across India to inspire mass participation in civil disobedience. He
also orchestrated efforts to protect national leaders from arrest and led
fundraising campaigns to sustain the movement's momentum.

6. Contributions In Unification Of India: played a pivotal role in integrating

over 560 princely states into the newly independent Indian Union through
diplomacy and administrative reforms, ensuring India's territorial integrity.
His promotion of national unity earned him the title "Iron Man of India," and
he was instrumental in establishing the Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
as the backbone of India's civil services. This legacy is honoured by the
"Statue of Unity" in Kevadia, Gujarat. Played a key role in shaping India's
constitution by leading committees focused on fundamental rights,
minorities, tribal and excluded areas, and provincial constitution.
 MAULANA ABUL KALAM AZAD’S

PERSONAL DETAIL’S:
Full name: Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
Born: November 11, 1888
Died: February 22, 1958
Cause of death: Heart attack
Political party: Indian National Congress
Spouse(s): Zuleikha Begum
Children: None
Mother: Alia Bakhtiar
Father: Maulana Khairuddin
Alma mater: Aligarh Muslim University
Profession: Scholar, Freedom fighter, Politician, Journalist
Awards: Bharat Ratna Award (1992) (posthumous)
Education Received his early education at home under private tutors.
He was largely self-educated and proficient in several
languages including Arabic, Persian, Urdu, English, and
Hindi. Later, he attended Aligarh Muslim University for
higher studies.

INTRODUCTION:

Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, born on November 11, 1888, in Mecca, was a
prominent leader of the Indian independence movement and a distinguished
scholar. His full name was Maulana Abul Kalam Ghulam Muhiyuddin Ahmed bin
Khairuddin Al-Hussaini Azad.

EFFORTS:

1. Leadership in the Indian National Congress: Maulana Azad played a

pivotal role in the Indian National Congress, serving as its president on
multiple occasions. His collaboration with leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and
 Jawaharlal Nehru was instrumental in advocating for independence and
Hindu-Muslim unity.

2. Advocacy for Muslim Rights: Azad staunchly advocated for the rights of
Muslims in India. He played a crucial role in the negotiations leading to
India's partition and the creation of Pakistan in 1947, emphasizing
communal harmony and unity.

3. Literary and Intellectual Contributions: Azad was a prolific writer and

thinker, addressing various topics including religion, politics, and education.
His works such as "India Wins Freedom" and "Tarjuman al-Quran" are
highly regarded in Indian literature.

4. Promotion of Education: Azad recognized the importance of education as a

tool for empowerment. He worked towards establishing educational
institutions like Jamia Millia Islamia in Delhi, promoting modern and
inclusive educational approaches.

5. Foundation of IITs (Indian Institutes of Technology): Azad laid the

foundation stone for India's first Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) in
Kharagpur in 1951. This initiative aimed to elevate technical education and
research standards, contributing significantly to India's technological
advancement.

6. Promotion of Religious Harmony: Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was a

staunch advocate for religious harmony in India. Despite being a devout
Muslim, he tirelessly worked to foster unity among people of all faiths.
Azad's efforts in promoting mutual respect and understanding among
Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and other religious communities were pivotal in
building a pluralistic and inclusive society in India.
 JAWAHARLAAL NEHRU

PERSONAL DETAIL’S:
Full Name: Jawaharlal Nehru
Born: November 14, 1889, in Allahabad, India
Died: May 27, 1964
Cause of Death: Natural Causes (Heart Attack)
Education: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Law.
Political Party: Indian National Congress
Spouse: Kamala Nehru
Children: Indira Gandhi
Mother: Swarup Rani Nehru
Father: Motilal Nehru
Alma mater: Harrow School (England), Trinity College, Cambridge
Profession: The first Prime Minister of India, Statesman and Politician.
Awards: Bharat Ratna (India's highest civilian award, 1955)

INTRODUCTION:

Jawaharlal Nehru (1889–1964) was a towering figure in the Indian independence

movement and the first Prime Minister of independent India. Educated both in India
and abroad, Nehru developed a passion for nationalist politics early in life. He was
deeply influenced by the ideals of democracy, socialism, and secularism. Nehru's
commitment to India's independence led him to play a crucial role in the freedom
struggle, where he became a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of the
Indian independence movement. Nehru served as the President of the Indian
National Congress multiple times and emerged as one of the most prominent leaders
of the party. Nehru's leadership style, eloquence, and commitment to democratic
values earned him respect both domestically and internationally. He remained Prime
Minister until his death on May 27, 1964, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of
the architects of modern India and a champion of democracy, secularism, and social
justice.
EFFORTS:
1. Leadership within the Indian National Congress (INC): Nehru became a
central figure within the INC, the main political party fighting for
independence. He was a vocal advocate for Purna Swaraj (complete
independence) as opposed to remaining a dominion under British rule.

2. Internationalizing the Struggle: Nehru understood the importance of

global support and actively sought allies abroad. This international pressure
and public sympathy strengthened India’s bargaining power with the British.

3. Non-Violent Resistance: Nehru was a strong advocate for Mahatma

Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violent resistance.

4. First Prime Minister of Independent India: Nehru served as the first

Prime Minister of India from 1947 until his death in 1964. As Prime
Minister, he played a crucial role in shaping the country's political,
economic, and social landscape.

5. Economic Planning: Foreseeing the challenges of an independent India,

Nehru played a crucial role in establishing the National Planning
Commission in 1938.This commission laid the foundation for India’s
economic development after independence.

6. Symbol of a Modern, Independent India: Nehru’s Western education and

progressive views made him a symbol of a modern, independent India on the
world stage. This helped attract international investment and support, crucial
for a newly independent nation.
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