Celebrating the Legacy of Former Prime Minister Morarji Desai

Recently, the birth anniversary of the late former Prime Minister Morarji Desai was celebrated by the Jatin Group of Industries, which includes Jatin Industries, Shyam Industries, and Floster Engineers Pvt. Ltd., located in GIDC, Vatva, Ahmedabad. On this occasion, Chairman Maganbhai Patel and the office staff paid their respects to Morarji Desai by offering floral tributes. Born on February 29, 1896, due to the leap year, his birthday occurs once every four years. Therefore, it was decided to celebrate his birthday on March 1 according to the English calendar or on the Hindu date of Vikram Samvat Falgun Shukla Pratipada (Ekam), which coincides with Dhulendi.

During the event, a retired Deputy Superintendent of Police, P.K. Bansal, who was assigned to ensure the safety of Morarji Desai during his visit to Gujarat, shared his experiences. These anecdotes about the life of a great Prime Minister and a remarkable national leader will undoubtedly inspire future generations.

Maganbhai Patel provided interesting insights into Morarji Desai's disciplined and simple lifestyle. He was born in Bhadele village of Valsad district into a wealthy Gujarati Anavil Brahmin family. His father, Ranchhodji Nagarji Desai, was a school teacher known for his strict discipline. From a young age, Desai learned the values of hard work and honesty from his father. He completed his primary education at Kundla School in Savarkundla and later attended Bai Ava High School in Valsad. In 1917, he graduated from the prestigious Wilson College in Mumbai.

Morarji Desai was the first Gujarati Prime Minister of India. Before entering politics, he served as a civil servant after graduating. He worked as a Deputy Collector in Godhra from 1918 to 1930. However, he resigned in 1930 in protest against the unjust policies of British rule and joined the freedom struggle inspired by Gandhi's ideals. Thus, his career transitioned from government service to the highest office in the country.

Maganbhai Patel emphasized that Morarji Desai's life is filled with ideals such as hard work, strict discipline, morality, and honesty, which can inspire today's youth. He maintained a strict daily routine, waking up at 5 AM and going to bed at 10 PM, regardless of his workload. After the age of 40, he stopped consuming grains and instead relied on a diet of almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and cow's milk. He was also a proponent of 'Shivambu' therapy, an ancient Indian medical practice.

Despite being the Prime Minister, Morarji Desai lived a life of simplicity. He resided in a modest home with just two rooms and a kitchen, with only one or two security personnel assigned to him. His home lacked modern furniture or luxurious items, containing only a few wooden chairs and a bed.

Maganbhai Patel recounted an incident showcasing Desai's dedication to democracy. During a foundation-laying ceremony in December 1978, when protesters displayed black flags, Desai insisted that their right to protest be respected, emphasizing the importance of maintaining law and order.

In 1930, amidst the freedom struggle led by Mahatma Gandhi, Desai lost faith in British justice and decided to leave his government job to join the movement. He became a prominent leader in the Indian National Congress and was elected as the Revenue Minister and Home Minister after the provincial elections in 1937.

Morarji Desai is remembered as a principled leader who emphasized the importance of honesty and integrity in governance. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor, and the Nishan-e-Pakistan, Pakistan's highest civilian award, making him the first Indian to receive both honors. His commitment to providing affordable sugar and ration to the public remains a significant part of his legacy.

After retiring from politics, Morarji Desai lived with his family in Mumbai. He continued to participate in events at Gujarat Vidyapeeth until October 1987. He passed away on April 10, 1995, due to a blood clot in the brain, and was cremated with full state honors at Abhay Ghat in Ahmedabad.