Rajendra Prasad, born on December 3, 1884, was India’s first President and one of the foremost architects of modern India. A scholar, lawyer, freedom fighter and statesman, he played an instrumental role in shaping the Constitution and guiding the newly independent nation.
Early Life and Education
Born in Ziradei, Bihar, Dr. Prasad was a brilliant student from a young age. At the age of five, he was taught by a Maulavi because his father wanted him to learn Persian, Hindi, and arithmetic. He later studied at the University of Calcutta and built a successful career in law, also teaching English and Economics during his student years.
Role in the Freedom Movement
A dedicated activist in the Indian independence struggle, he emerged as a significant leader within the Indian National Congress. Dr. Prasad was jailed during both the Salt Satyagraha (1931) and the Quit India Movement (1942).
During the 1934 Bihar earthquake, while still in jail, he was released to lead relief efforts and established the Bihar Central Relief Committee.
Political Leadership and Presidency
When India became a Republic in 1950, Dr. Rajendra Prasad was unanimously elected President of the Constituent Assembly.
He went on to serve as the first President of India from January 26, 1950, to May 13, 1962, becoming the only President to serve two full terms, a tenure spanning nearly 12 years.
Known for his humility, integrity, and farsighted leadership, he set important precedents for the office of the President and for parliamentary conduct—guidelines still respected today.
Later Years and Legacy
After retiring from the presidency, Dr. Prasad stepped away from active politics and spent his final years at Sadaqat Ashram, Patna. He passed away on February 28, 1963.
In recognition of his immense contribution to the nation, he was awarded India’s highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, in 1962.
Interesting Facts About Dr. Rajendra Prasad
- Only Indian President to serve two full terms.
- Close associate of Mahatma Gandhi and a key contributor to the drafting of the Constitution.
- Wrote for revolutionary publications Searchlight and Desh.
- Authored several notable works, including:
India Divided, Words of Freedom, Ideas of a Nation: Rajendra Prasad, and At the Feet of Mahatma Gandhi