Tribute to India’s First Governor-General: Rajaji Honoured at Rashtrapati Bhavan
In a significant symbolic move, President Droupadi Murmu on Monday unveiled the statue of Chakravarti Rajagopalachari, popularly known as Rajaji, in the central courtyard of Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Rajaji, India’s first and only Indian Governor-General, has replaced a statue of British architect Edwin Lutyens, marking what the government describes as a step toward shedding colonial-era symbols and honoring national leaders.
The ceremony was attended by Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan, several Union ministers, and other dignitaries. The occasion also marked the celebration of Rajaji Utsav. An exhibition dedicated to Rajagopalachari’s life and contributions will be held from February 24 to March 1.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also referred to this development during the 131st episode of his monthly radio program, Mann Ki Baat, highlighting the importance of remembering leaders who shaped the nation’s journey.
Why Was the Change Made?
According to the government, the installation of Rajaji’s statue is part of a broader effort to move away from colonial legacies and celebrate India’s own icons. In a post on X, President Murmu described the move as an effort to eliminate the vestiges of colonial thinking and embrace India’s cultural heritage and distinguished leaders.
Who Was Rajaji?
Born on December 10, 1878, in the Madras Presidency, Rajaji was a towering figure in India’s freedom struggle and early governance. In 1948, he succeeded Lord Mountbatten and served as the last Governor-General of India until the post was abolished in 1950.
A close associate of Mahatma Gandhi, Rajaji actively participated in the Non-Cooperation and Civil Disobedience Movements. During Gandhi’s imprisonment, he edited Young India. Later, in 1959, he founded the Swatantra Party.
He also served as a leader of the Indian National Congress and as Governor of West Bengal during a critical phase in the state’s history. Beyond politics, Rajaji was a scholar who translated the Ramayana and the Mahabharata into English and Tamil. In recognition of his immense contributions, he was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1954.
The unveiling of his statue at Rashtrapati Bhavan stands as a tribute to a leader who played a crucial role in shaping modern India.
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