Wednesday, July 31, 2019
Biography of C. Rajagopalachari:
Chakravarti Rajagopalachari (C. Rajagopalachari), often referred to as Rajaji, was an Indian statesman, lawyer, independence activist, and writer who played a prominent role in India's political history.
Here is a brief biography of C. Rajagopalachari:
Early Life:
Birth: C. Rajagopalachari was born on December 10, 1878, in Thorapalli in the Madras Presidency of British India (now in Tamil Nadu, India).
Education: He studied at Central College in Bangalore and later pursued law at the Presidency College in Madras.
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| Biography of C. Rajagopalachari |
Political and Legal Career:
Rajagopalachari began his career as a lawyer and entered politics during the Indian independence movement.
He became actively involved in the Indian National Congress and was a contemporary of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru.
C. Rajagopalachari's Role in the Independence Movement:
Rajagopalachari was an ardent supporter of Mahatma Gandhi and actively participated in various movements, including the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Salt Satyagraha.
He was imprisoned multiple times by the British authorities for his involvement in civil disobedience campaigns.
Governor-General of India:
After India gained independence in 1947, Rajagopalachari served as the last Governor-General of India from 1948 to 1950.
He was also the head of the Interim Government of India.
C. Rajagopalachari as Chief Minister of Madras State:
Rajagopalachari served as the Chief Minister of the Madras State (now Tamil Nadu) from 1952 to 1954 and again from 1955 to 1963.
As Chief Minister, he implemented several social and economic reforms.
Founder of the Swatantra Party:
Rajagopalachari was critical of the economic policies adopted by the Congress party and Jawaharlal Nehru.
In 1959, he founded the Swatantra Party, advocating for free-market principles and individual freedoms.
Literary Contributions:
Besides his political career, Rajagopalachari was a prolific writer and translator. He wrote extensively on various topics, including Indian epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.
His English rendering of the Mahabharata is particularly well-regarded.
Later Years of C. Rajagopalachari:
In the later years of his life, Rajagopalachari continued to be involved in public life and wrote on political and philosophical issues.
He passed away on December 25, 1972, in Madras, India.
Legacy:
C. Rajagopalachari is remembered for his significant contributions to India's independence movement, his role in shaping the early political landscape of independent India, and his advocacy for economic freedom.
His writings, especially his translations of Indian epics, continue to be influential.
C. Rajagopalachari was a multifaceted leader who left a lasting impact on India's political, social, and literary spheres. His commitment to Gandhian principles, leadership qualities, and contributions to the nation have earned him a revered place in Indian history.