Dr. Rajendra Prasad (Dec 3, 1884 – Feb 28, 1963) stands as one of India’s most revered leaders. A scholar, statesman, and freedom fighter, he became India’s first President and played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s journey to Independence and its constitutional framework. Born on December 3, 1884, in Ziradei village, Bihar, he grew up in a devout family surrounded by rich cultural traditions. Excelling academically, he pursued higher education at Calcutta University, where he earned degrees in law and literature and achieved the distinction of being a university topper.
Despite his academic brilliance, Prasad dedicated his life to serving the nation. He found his inspiration in Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of non-violence and truth. In 1917, he joined the freedom movement during Gandhi’s Champaran Satyagraha, which marked the start of a lifelong collaboration between the two leaders.
Prasad’s exceptional legal expertise, eloquence, and organizational skills soon established him as a prominent figure in the Indian National Congress. He played key roles in major events like the Non-Cooperation Movement, Salt Satyagraha, and Quit India Movement. His commitment to the cause often led to imprisonment, but his resilience and humility earned him immense respect among his peers and the masses alike.
Dr. Rajendra Prasad: A Visionary Leader of India
In 1947, as a member of the Constituent Assembly, Prasad was elected its President. He ensured smooth and balanced discussions among diverse viewpoints, showcasing his remarkable statesmanship. On January 26, 1950, when India became a Republic, he was unanimously chosen as the country’s first President. Serving two terms until 1962, he remains the longest-serving President in Indian history.
As President, Prasad exemplified integrity, humility, and a deep sense of duty. He envisioned a nation firmly rooted in democratic values and focused on advancing education, agriculture, and rural development. His leadership brought unity to a nation grappling with regional and communal divides. Prasad often visited villages to connect directly with people, ensuring their voices were heard at the highest levels of governance.
Dr. Prasad’s contributions extended beyond politics into literature. His notable works, such as Atmakatha (his autobiography) and India Divided, reveal his profound understanding of India’s socio-political challenges and his vision for its future. He also wrote extensively about India’s culture, heritage, and the issues the country faced during and after Independence.
After stepping down from public life in 1962, Prasad was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, in recognition of his unparalleled contributions to the nation. He spent his final years in Bihar, passing away on February 28, 1963.
Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s legacy remains a beacon of selfless service, unwavering patriotism, and moral leadership. His life inspires generations to embrace simplicity, dedication, and the spirit of sacrifice for the greater good.
Prasar Bharati Hosts Dr. Rajendra Prasad Memorial Lecture 2024
Shri Harivansh, Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha, Delivers Keynote Address on “India’s Expanding Role on the Global Horizon”
The prestigious Dr. Rajendra Prasad Memorial Lecture 2024 was organized by Prasar Bharati at the Akashvani Rang Bhavan Auditorium. Shri Harivansh, Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, delivered the keynote address on the theme “Vaishvik Kshitij par Bharat ki Badhti Bhoomika” (India’s Expanding Role on the Global Horizon). Furthermore, Akashvani broadcasts this annual lecture nationwide every year on December 3 to honor the birth anniversary of India’s first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad. Initiated in 1969, the lecture continues to celebrate his legacy and his immense contributions to the nation.
Celebrating India’s Global Rise
In his lecture, Shri Harivansh highlighted India’s remarkable progress over the past decade, emphasizing the nation’s transformation on the global stage. He further remarked on India’s growing reputation as a peace negotiator and the increasing weight of its opinions in international vision documents. Moreover, reflecting on the future, Shri Harivansh spoke of India’s aspirations to become a developed nation (Viksit Bharat) by 2047, underlining the pivotal role of economic and technological advancements in shaping this vision. Consequently, he stressed the importance of continued growth and the country’s commitment to progress on both fronts.
He lauded India’s evolution from the colonial stereotype of “magicians and snake charmers” to becoming the fifth-largest economy in the world, rapidly progressing toward the third position. Highlighting technological achievements, he referred to the global admiration for India’s UPI transactions and their transformative impact on digital economies. Additionally, he celebrated India’s contribution to global culture through initiatives like Yoga and the nation’s increasing influence as the voice of the Global South.
Tribute to Dr. Rajendra Prasad
Shri Harivansh began his lecture by paying homage to Dr. Rajendra Prasad. He shared insights into the life of India’s first President, bringing attention to lesser-known aspects of his journey. Acknowledging Dr. Prasad’s monumental contributions to post-independence India, Shri Harivansh praised the legacy of Akashvani for organizing over 50 such lectures by distinguished speakers since 1969.
Acknowledgments and Key Addresses
The event began with floral tributes to Dr. Rajendra Prasad, led by Shri Gaurav Dwivedi, CEO of Prasar Bharati, and Dr. Pragya Paliwal Gaur, Director General of Akashvani. In his opening remarks, Shri Dwivedi introduced the audience to the history of the memorial lecture series and highlighted Dr. Prasad’s enduring contributions to India’s progress. He also detailed the various platforms where Prasar Bharati makes its programs accessible to the public.
Dr. Pragya Paliwal Gaur concluded the event with a Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to all attendees and participants who contributed to the success of the occasion.
A Celebration of Vision and Legacy
The 2024 Dr. Rajendra Prasad Memorial Lecture celebrated not only the life and legacy of a great leader but also the remarkable strides India has made on the global stage. With reflections on the past and aspirations for the future, the lecture reinforced the enduring spirit of progress that Dr. Rajendra Prasad championed throughout his life.
