The recent tribute by the Prime Minister of India to Acharya Kripalani on his Jayanti stirs revisiting the contribution of this key figure in India’s freedom movement. Born as Jivatram Bhagwandas Kripalani on 11th November 1888 in Hyderabad, Sindh, he was commonly known as Acharya Kripalani. His life spans across being an independence activist, an Indian politician, an educationist, and an environmentalist.
Early Life and Education
The once teacher earning the title ‘Acharya’ around 1922, Acharya Kripalani carved out his pedagogical career from 1912 to 1927 at various locations. The moniker ‘Acharya’ was conferred upon him during his tenure at the Gujarat Vidyapith, a prominent educational institution founded by Mahatma Gandhi.
Environmental Conservationist
Not just known for his political activities, Kripalani had a keen interest in environmental preservation and conservation. His environmental activism throughout the 1970s, along with Vinoba Bhave, showcased his fervor for safeguarding nature beyond his political pursuits.
An Indomitable Independence Activist
Kripalani’s association with Gandhi began as early as 1917 when the latter took up the cause of indigo workers in Gujarat. He was a vital part of crucial milestones in India’s fight for freedom – the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22), the Civil Disobedience movements (starting in 1930), and the Quit India Movement (1942). As the President of the Indian National Congress (INC) during Independence, he also served in the Interim government of India (1946–1947) and the Constituent Assembly of India.
Political Journey Post-Independence
Acharya Kripalani decided to leave Congress post-independence, co-founding the Kisan Mazdoor Praja Party (KMPP). His political career saw him being elected to the Lok Sabha in 1952, 1957, 1963, and 1967 as a member of the Praja Socialist Party. His political acumen came forward when he moved the first-ever No confidence motion in Lok Sabha in 1963, immediately following the India-China War (1962).
Kripalani’s unyielding spirit was evident in his relationship with his wife, Sucheta Kripalani, a Congress leader who became the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh in 1963, marking a first for any woman in the country. Despite their marriage, Acharya remained a staunch opponent of the Congress party. He was also vocal about his critique of Nehru’s policies and Indira Gandhi’s rule, leading to his arrest during the Emergency in 1975.
Kripalani as an Author
Besides his contributions to Indian politics, Kripalani was also a distinguished author. His autobiography, ‘My Times,’ was published posthumously in 2004, offering readers insights into his life and political journey. Another noteworthy work by him is ‘Gandhi: His Life and Thought’ (1970), portraying his close association with Mahatma Gandhi and his ideas.
Kripalani’s journey underlines a life dedicated to national service, encompassing various domains from education to politics to environmental preservation. His noteworthy contributions to Indian history continue to inspire current generations. Source: PIB.