India, on October 2nd, commemorates the 118th birth anniversary of its second Prime Minister, Lal Bahadur Shastri. This notable figure’s life brims with ethical values and practical principles which continue to resonate with Indians today. His stance on the caste system, his willingness to shoulder responsibilities during challenging times, the inseparability of his public and private life, and his unwavering morality all stand as lessons that modern society can learn from.
A Bold Stand Against the Caste System
Born Lal Bahadur Shrivastava, the son of Ramdulari Devi and Sharada Prasad Shrivastava, Shastri chose to renounce his surname in a statement against the prevailing caste system of the time. His graduation from Kashi Vidyapeeth in Varanasi in 1925 earned him the title ‘Shastri’, a term designating a scholar or a person proficient in holy scriptures. This action indicated a progressive and expansive perspective at a young age.
Accepting Responsibilities During Difficult Times
Shastri’s commitment to taking on the nation’s complex responsibilities showcased his strength and leadership qualities. Even during trying situations, he stepped forward and held himself accountable. Serving as the Railway Minister in Jawaharlal Nehru’s Cabinet, he chose to resign following a train accident at Ariyalur in Tamil Nadu in 1956. His stance was applauded by many, including Nehru, whom Shastri admired greatly.
Blurring the Lines: Public and Private Life
Shastri’s life exhibited a remarkable confluence of his public duties and private decisions. One notable instance is from 1965 when India was grappling with a war and facing severe food shortages. Amid increased pressure from the United States, which threatened to halt supplies, Shastri declared to his family that they would forgo their evening meal for a few days, setting a personal example of sacrifice.
Maintaining Morality in Everyday Actions
Shastri’s life was a testament to honesty and integrity, extending to the smallest of actions. He once found out that his son had taken his official Chevrolet Impala out for a drive. Rather than dismissing it as trivial, he asked his driver to record the distance traveled and deposited the equivalent amount in the government account.
Continuing Relevance of Shastri’s Values Today
The virtues embodied by Shastri – simplicity, humility, humanism, austerity, hard work, dedication, and nationalism – hold a timeless appeal. These principles are as relevant today as they were during his tenure as Prime Minister. His emphasis on character and moral strength during his maiden Independence Day speech in 1964 speaks volumes, especially in an era witnessing a widespread degeneration of values. Shastri’s life thus continues to serve as a beacon of ethical conduct and principled governance.