PM Modi Leads Tributes to Mahatma Jyotirao Phule on His Birth Anniversary

Marking the beginning of his 200th birth anniversary celebrations, the Prime Minister said Phule's thoughts continue to guide society in its pursuit of progress and empowerment.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, "On the birth anniversary of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, paying tributes to a visionary social reformer who dedicated his life to the ideals of equality, justice and education. He was also a pioneer in championing the rights of women and the marginalised. Through his efforts, education became a powerful instrument of empowerment. This year, we mark the start of his 200th birth anniversary celebrations. May his thoughts continue to guide everyone in the pursuit of societal progress."

In another post, the Prime Minister shared a blog titled 'Mahatma Jyotirao Phule: A Light That Still Shows India the Way', noting that Phule's emphasis on education, learning, and welfare of all remains highly relevant in the present age. He wrote that Phule stands as a guiding light for many and that his life's message continues to inspire generations.

In his blog, PM Modi further reflected, "Today, 11th April, is a deeply special day for all of us. It is the birth anniversary of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, one of India's greatest social reformers and a guiding light for generations. This year, the occasion carries even greater significance, as it marks the beginning of his 200th birth anniversary celebrations."

He added that Phule's life reflected moral courage, relentless enquiry, and an unshakable commitment to social good. "His contribution lies not only in the institutions he built and movements he led, but also in the hope he aroused and the confidence he instilled in millions," the Prime Minister noted.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid tribute to Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, calling him a great social reformer and educationist.

"Respectful salutations on the birth anniversary of great social reformer and educationist Mahatma Jyotiba Phule. Jyotiba Phule considered education as the most effective means of social reform. He did remarkable work for women's education and, by establishing the 'Satyashodhak Samaj,' made a significant contribution towards establishing equality and justice in society," HM Shah wrote on X (loosely translated from Hindi).

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari also paid homage, describing Phule as a pioneer of India's educational revolution and a strong advocate for the uplift of Dalits and empowerment of women.

He said: "Those who wear out their bodies for equality and truth, ever dedicated to the upliftment of Dalits and the empowerment of women.The father of India's educational revolution, the great social reformer, intellectual revolutionary sun Mahatma Jyotiba Phule-on his birth anniversary, presenting humble salutations to him."

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said Mahatma Phule taught that true progress of society is possible only when every individual has access to education, respect, and equal opportunities.

"On the birth anniversary of the great social reformer and the powerful voice of the exploited and deprived, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, humble tribute. He taught us that society progresses only when every individual receives education, respect, and opportunities. His struggles ignited a new light in the lives of millions. Let us resolve to advance his ideals and build an egalitarian and enlightened society," CM Yogi stated.

Jyotirao Phule was a 19th-century Indian social reformer who strongly advocated for education for women and oppressed communities. He founded the Satyashodhak Samaj to promote equality, education, and social justice in society.

- IANS