Biography of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya:
Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya (1916–1968) was an Indian philosopher, economist, sociopolitical thinker, and a prominent leader in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). He played a crucial role in the formation and growth of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the forerunner of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Here is a brief biography of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya:
Early Life:
1. Birth:
Deendayal Upadhyaya was born on September 25, 1916, in Nagla Chandrabhan, Mathura, British India.
2. Education of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya:
He completed his education in arts and commerce at Agra College (now Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar University).
Association with Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS):
1. Joining the RSS:
Upadhyaya joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) during his college years and became an active member.
2. Organizational Role:
He served in various organizational capacities within the RSS, gradually rising to prominence.
Bharatiya Jana Sangh:
1. Formation:
Deendayal Upadhyaya played a key role in the formation of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS) in 1951, a political party with a strong ideological foundation.
2. Leadership:
He became the general secretary of the BJS and later served as its president.
Political Philosophy:
1. Integral Humanism:
Upadhyaya propagated the concept of "Integral Humanism," an ideological framework that aimed to harmonize individual and collective interests, emphasizing the welfare of the entire society.
Political Career of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya:
1. Member of Parliament:
Deendayal Upadhyaya was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) from the Lok Sabha in 1967.
2. Political Activism:
He actively participated in various social and political movements, advocating for the principles of nationalism, cultural integrity, and social justice.
Contribution to Economic Thought:
1. Economic Philosophy:
Upadhyaya contributed to economic thought with his emphasis on the concept of "Economic Democracy," which aimed to ensure that the benefits of economic development reached every section of society.
2. Sarvodaya:
He advocated the principles of "Sarvodaya," focusing on the welfare of all and the upliftment of the last person in society.
Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya's Death:
1. Mysterious Death:
Deendayal Upadhyaya passed away under mysterious circumstances on February 11, 1968, near Mughalsarai Junction, Uttar Pradesh. The circumstances surrounding his death have been a subject of speculation and debate.
Legacy:
1. Political Ideology:
Deendayal Upadhyaya's philosophy of Integral Humanism and his contributions to political and economic thought continue to influence the ideological framework of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
2. Deendayal Research Institute:
The Deendayal Research Institute (DRI) was established in his memory to promote research and studies in the areas of Integral Humanism and socio-economic development.
3. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana:
The Government of India launched the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana, a scheme aimed at providing continuous power supply to rural areas.
4. Birth Anniversary Celebrations:
His birth anniversary, September 25, is observed as "Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Antarrashtriya Punyatithi Diwas" to commemorate his life and contributions.
Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya's thoughts and vision continue to resonate in Indian political and social discourse, and he is remembered as a leader who worked tirelessly for the upliftment of society and the nation.