NewKerala.com

PM Modi Unveils Rajaji Statue, Replaces Colonial Symbol at Rashtrapati Bhavan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the unveiling of a statue of C. Rajagopalachari at Rashtrapati Bhavan during 'Rajaji Utsav'. He framed the move as a step to shed colonial symbols and embrace India's own cultural icons, part of his 'Panch-Pran' pledge for freedom from a slave mentality. The statue will specifically replace one of British architect Edwin Lutyens that had stood on the premises. An accompanying exhibition on Rajagopalachari's life will be open to the public from February 24 to March 1.

Key Points: PM Modi Unveils C Rajagopalachari Statue, Replaces Lutyens

  • Statue of first Indian Governor General
  • Replaces Edwin Lutyens statue
  • Part of 'Panch-Pran' pledge
  • Exhibition from Feb 24 to March 1
2 min read

C Rajagopalachari's statue to be unveiled tomorrow at Rashtrapati Bhavan, announces PM Modi

PM Modi announces 'Rajaji Utsav' and unveiling of C Rajagopalachari's statue at Rashtrapati Bhavan, replacing a colonial-era symbol.

"Today, the country is leaving behind the symbols of slavery and has begun to value symbols related to Indian culture. - PM Modi"

New Delhi, Feb 22

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday announced that India will observe 'Rajaji Utsav' on Monday with the unveiling of a statue of the first Indian Governor General of Independent India, C. Rajagopalachari, describing the move as part of a broader effort to shed symbols associated with British rule and a colonial mindset.

Speaking during the 131st episode of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat', the Prime Minister recalled his call for the 'Panch-Pran' during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations.

"During the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, I spoke of the 'Panch-Pran' from the Red Fort. One of them is freedom from the mentality of slavery. Today, the country is leaving behind the symbols of slavery and has begun to value symbols related to Indian culture. Our Rashtrapati Bhavan has also taken an important step in this direction," he said.

PM Modi announced that on Monday, February 23, 'Rajaji Utsav' will be celebrated at Rashtrapati Bhavan, and on this occasion, a statue of C. Rajagopalachari will be unveiled in the Central Courtyard of the presidential estate.

"He was the first Indian Governor General of Independent India. He was among those who saw power not as a position but as a service. His conduct, self-restraint, and independent thinking in public life inspire us even today," the Prime Minister said, highlighting Rajagopalachari's contribution to public life.

Expressing regret over the continuation of colonial-era symbols after Independence, PM Modi said that statues of British administrators had remained within Rashtrapati Bhavan premises for decades, while icons of the freedom movement and national leadership did not receive similar recognition.

"Unfortunately, even after independence, statues of British administrators were allowed to remain in Rashtrapati Bhavan, but those of the nation's greatest sons were denied space," he said.

Referring specifically to the statue of British architect Edwin Lutyens, the Prime Minister stated, "A statue of British architect Edwin Lutyens also stood in Rashtrapati Bhavan. Now, this statue will be replaced by a statue of Rajaji."

PM Modi further informed listeners that an exhibition dedicated to C. Rajagopalachari will also be organised as part of the Rajaji Utsav celebrations.

The exhibition will be open to visitors from February 24 to March 1.

He urged citizens to visit the exhibition whenever possible to learn more about Rajagopalachari's life and legacy.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Finally! Why did it take 75+ years to remove statues of British administrators from our most important buildings? This move towards 'Panch-Pran' is long overdue. Kudos to the government for this step.
A
Arjun K
Rajaji was a complex figure - a great administrator but also had differences with Nehru. It's good to see his contributions being recognized. Hope the exhibition gives a balanced view of his life and work.
S
Sarah B
As someone who has studied Indian history, I think this is a positive symbolic gesture. However, I hope this effort to shed colonial mindset goes beyond statues and into our education system and bureaucratic practices.
V
Vikram M
Good move, but let's not forget Rajaji was also the founder of the Swatantra Party which stood for free markets. His economic philosophy was quite different from what's popular today. Interesting choice of icon!
M
Meera T
While I appreciate honoring our leaders, I can't help but feel this is another political symbolism. The real tribute would be to emulate Rajaji's integrity and independent thinking in today's politics. The exhibition is a nice touch though.
K
Karthik V
Replacing Lutyens' statue with Rajaji's is poetic justice! The architect of colonial Delhi making way for a architect

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50