PM Modi Honors Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee on His 125th Birth Anniversary
A Tribute to a Visionary Leader
On July 6, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorated the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, the founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh and a prominent nationalist and educator, by penning a signed article in leading national newspapers. In his piece, PM Modi highlighted Dr. Mukherjee's courage, sacrifice, unique service to the nation, and visionary thinking. He emphasized that the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A in 2019 was the truest tribute to Dr. Mukherjee's sacrifices.
In his signed article, Modi stated that Dr. Mukherjee always prioritized 'India and Indian values.' He built strong institutions and established systems that were far ahead of their time.
Modi noted that in the later years of Mukherjee's life, this spirit was evident when he decided to form the Bharatiya Jana Sangh at a time when the Congress Party dominated the political landscape. The Bharatiya Jana Sangh is the predecessor of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Born on July 6, 1901, Mukherjee passed away on June 23, 1953, while in custody in Srinagar. He fought for the complete integration of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India, advocating for the removal of Article 370.
PM Modi remarked that July 6 holds special significance for millions of citizens who believe in the ideals of nationalism and selfless service. He wrote, 'We are celebrating the 125th anniversary of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, whose life is an inspiring example of courage and unwavering dedication to Mother India.'
A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice
According to the Prime Minister, Dr. Mukherjee embodied a remarkable blend of scholarship, public service, and high moral values, a combination rarely seen in modern Indian leaders. He was born into a family that could have easily provided him a life of comfort, with his father, Sir Ashutosh Mukherjee, being a renowned educator of his time. However, despite these privileges, Shyama Prasad chose the path of sacrifice and service to the nation.
Modi stated that Mukherjee firmly believed that he could not remain a mere spectator in the face of challenges such as opposing British rule, fighting communalism, or addressing humanitarian crises. He endured profound personal losses, including the death of his young child and later, his wife. Yet, these tragedies did not weaken his resolve; instead, they strengthened his commitment to serving the nation.
He emphasized that if there was one ideal that defined Mukherjee's public life, it was the protection of India's unity and integrity. During the partition, he played a crucial role in ensuring that West Bengal remained an integral part of India. Years later, he fought for the Jammu and Kashmir issue, undeterred by imprisonment or detention.
A Vision for Education and Industry
PM Modi reflected on Mukherjee's significant contributions as India's first Minister of Industry and Supply. He was remembered as a visionary politician who viewed industry as a powerful means to instill respect, opportunity, and confidence among the newly independent Indian populace. He understood the importance of wealth and value creation.
Dr. Mukherjee initiated historic projects such as the Damodar Valley Corporation and the Sindri Fertilizer Plant, laying the foundation for modern industrial India. He also ensured that India's traditional strengths were never overlooked, advocating for the interests of handloom, cottage industries, artisans, and textile workers.
Sharing a personal experience, Modi expressed satisfaction that his government had the opportunity to revive the Sindri plant, which had been neglected for decades. Attending the revival program was one of the most memorable moments of his public life.
A Commitment to Democratic Values
Dr. Mukherjee was a strong symbol of democratic values. He accepted a position in Jawaharlal Nehru's cabinet, believing that the responsibility of nation-building during the early years of independence transcended political differences. However, when he felt it necessary to take a different path on matters of national importance, he resigned with dignity.
He dedicated his life to achieving the political goals he deemed essential for the nation. Modi noted that 75 years ago, Nehru introduced the first constitutional amendment, which was seen as a direct assault on freedom of expression. Dr. Mukherjee was its most vocal critic, understanding the extent to which the Congress party could go.
Modi concluded by stating that Dr. Mukherjee is also remembered for his humanitarian sensibilities and service. During the devastating Bengal famine of 1943, he devoted himself entirely to serving the victims. Today, as India strides towards the goal of a developed nation, our true tribute to him would be to continuously strive towards building the India he envisioned—one that is empowered, united, confident, and sensitive.
Final Thoughts
This article was written by PM Modi
Today, the nation celebrates the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, the architect of a united India, a fervent nationalist, and a great educator. His vision for a strong and self-reliant India energizes our resolve for nation-building. Here is my article dedicated to his invaluable contributions...
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2026