"His vision continues to illuminate our path": PM Modi pays tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee on 125th birth anniversary
New Delhi, July 6
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid tribute to Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee on his 125th birth anniversary, hailing him as one of India's most transformative nation-builders whose legacy remains a cornerstone of the country's ongoing development journey.
In a heartfelt tribute, the Prime Minister, in a post on X, reflected on the multifaceted life of the Jana Sangh founder, describing him as a man of profound intellect, indomitable courage, and selfless service.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted that Dr. Mookerjee's life was defined by an "unwavering commitment to national service," noting that his contributions shaped the very foundations of independent India.
"As we move forward in our journey towards a Viksit Bharat, his vision continues to illuminate our path," the Prime Minister stated.
The tribute underscored several key dimensions of Dr. Mookerjee's enduring influence. PM Modi recognised him as an "outstanding thinker and educationist" who championed innovation and forward-thinking academic structures.
Serving as India's first Industries Minister, Mookerjee was credited with laying the groundwork for industrial self-reliance while carefully balancing the needs of traditional sectors to ensure the livelihoods of millions were protected.
The Prime Minister specifically recalled Mookerjee's compassion and active humanitarian efforts during the Bengal Famine, noting that his leadership was always rooted in empathy for those in distress.
Above all, the Prime Minister emphasised Mookerjee's "steadfast commitment to the unity and integrity of India," which he described as an "enduring source of inspiration" for the current generation.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, "Today, on the 125th Jayanti of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, I bow to one of India's most remarkable nation-builders, whose life was defined by scholarship, courage and an unwavering commitment to national service. He dedicated himself to the cause of India's unity, dignity and progress. Dr Mookerjee's contributions spanned diverse spheres. He was an outstanding thinker and educationist, who supported innovation and futuristic learning. As Industries Minister, he laid the foundations of industrial self-reliance while ensuring that traditional sectors and livelihoods flourished. His humanitarian efforts during the Bengal Famine reflected his profound compassion for those in distress. Above all, his steadfast commitment to the unity and integrity of India remains an enduring source of inspiration. As we move forward in our journey towards a Viksit Bharat, his vision continues to illuminate our path."
BJP leaders in Delhi also paid floral tributes to the portrait of Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee on the occasion of his birth anniversary.
Delhi BJP president Harsh Malhotra and other senior party leaders took part in the commemorative event.
In Jaipur, Rajasthan, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma paid floral tributes to Dr Mookerjee's portrait at the Chief Minister's Residence.
A day earlier, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini paid floral tributes to Dr Mookerjee at 'Ekta Sthal' in Madhopur ahead of his birth anniversary.
Addressing a programme, Saini highlighted Dr Mookerjee's role in strengthening national integration, particularly his views on Jammu and Kashmir.
"Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee said that there cannot be two supreme leaders, two legislatures, and two constitutions in the country. This was not merely a slogan but the very foundation of the nation's system. He rejected power and position, placing the nation above all," Saini said.
Speaking to reporters, the Haryana Chief Minister added, "He was a great personality who envisioned an undivided India. Today marks the 125th birth anniversary of such a great personality, and we are all remembering him and his sacrifices for the unity and integrity of the country."
Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee founded the Bharatiya Jana Sangh on October 21, 1951, the ideological predecessor of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Born on July 6, 1901, in Calcutta, he was an educationist, parliamentarian, statesman and humanitarian. He inherited a legacy of scholarship and nationalism from his father, Sir Ashutosh Mookerjee, who served as the Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University and a judge of the Calcutta High Court.
In 1940, he became the acting president of the Hindu Mahasabha and declared complete independence for India as its political goal. He later served as Minister for Industry and Supply in Jawaharlal Nehru's Interim Government before resigning. He also left the Hindu Mahasabha in the year Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated.
The BJP observes Dr Mookerjee's death anniversary on June 23 as 'Balidan Diwas' in remembrance of his death in Kashmir in 1953.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Very interesting to learn about his multifaceted contributions - from education to industry to humanitarian work during the Bengal Famine. While I may not agree with all his political views, the tribute rightly highlights his dedication to the nation. A complex figure worth studying more deeply.
Jai Shyama Prasad Mookerjee! His vision of 'Ek desh mein do vidhan, do pradhan aur do nishan nahi chalenge' is more relevant than ever. The way he opposed Article 370 from day one shows his foresight. Proud moment for every Indian that his dream of unified India is becoming reality. 🇮🇳
It's good that PM Modi acknowledged his contributions, but I wish there was more mention of his educational reforms as well. Dr Mookerjee's work as an educationist is often overshadowed by his political role. Still, a fitting tribute to a man who gave everything for the nation. 👏
Reading about his background - son of Sir Ashutosh Mookerjee, Vice-Chancellor of Calcutta University - fascinating how he balanced being an educationist and a statesman. The Bengal Famine humanitarian work really stands out as a powerful example of servant leadership.
Sad that his vision of 'Akhand Bharat' is still being talked about as a distant dream. But his unwavering stance on Kashmir and national unity is what today's leaders should learn from. Respect for a man who sacrificed his life for the nation's integrity! 🙏
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.