Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, a prominent figure in Indian political history, is remembered on his birth anniversary on September 25. Upadhyaya was not only a key member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) but also played a pivotal role in founding the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS), which later evolved into the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), one of India’s major political parties today.
Early Life and RSS Involvement
Born in 1916 in a small village in Uttar Pradesh, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya was introduced to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh during his college years. In 1937, he became an active member of the RSS, an organization that has played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of India. His dedication to the organization’s principles and his intellectual prowess quickly made him a prominent thinker within the RSS ranks.
Political Career and Ideological Contributions
Upadhyaya’s political journey took a significant turn when he co-founded the Bharatiya Jana Sangh in 1951. The BJS was established as a political arm of the RSS with the aim of providing a political alternative to the Indian National Congress, which dominated the political scene at the time. As a leader of the BJS, Upadhyaya’s ideologies and strategies were instrumental in laying the foundation for what would become a major force in Indian politics.
His political philosophy was centered around the concept of “Integral Humanism,” which proposed a native economic model that put the human being at the center of every developmental strategy. This ideology was based on the principles of promoting indigenous industries, cultural nationalism, and social welfare.
Media Ventures and Promotion of Hindutva
Apart from his political activities, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya was also involved in media and publication efforts to spread the Hindutva ideology. He initiated the Rashtra Dharma publication from Lucknow, which became a platform for expressing and promoting the ideological stance of the RSS and the BJS.
In addition, he launched a weekly magazine named Panchjanya and a daily newspaper called Swadesh. These publications played a crucial role in disseminating the party’s viewpoints and in rallying support for the Hindutva movement across the nation.
The Legacy of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya
The influence of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s thoughts and work extends beyond his lifetime. In recognition of his contributions, a 63-feet tall statue was unveiled at the inauguration of the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Memorial Centre. This event took place last year on the Varanasi-Chandauli border, marking a significant tribute to his enduring legacy.
The memorial center serves not only as a commemoration of Upadhyaya’s life and contributions but also as a symbol of the ideals he stood for. It is a place where people can learn about his vision for India and the impact he had on the nation’s political thought.
Commemorating Upadhyaya’s Birth Anniversary
Every year on September 25, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s birth anniversary is observed with reverence and respect. Political leaders, followers, and admirers pay homage to this visionary leader who shaped the direction of political discourse in India. His ideas continue to inspire and guide those who believe in the principles of Integral Humanism and cultural nationalism.
Through various events and discussions, his life’s work is remembered, ensuring that the values and philosophies he championed remain influential in contemporary Indian society. The observance of his birth anniversary serves as a reminder of the profound impact that one individual’s dedication to their beliefs can have on the history and future of a nation.
