 Maulana Abul Kalam Azad |
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| Full Name: | Abul Kalam Ghulam Muhiyuddin Ahmed Azad |
| Born: | November 11, 1888 |
| Birthplace: | Mecca, Hejaz (now Saudi Arabia) |
| Died: | February 22, 1958 (aged 69) |
| Nationality: | Indian |
| Occupation: | Scholar, Politician, Freedom Fighter |
| Years Active: | 1912–1958 |
| Known For: | First Education Minister of India, Indian Independence Movement |
| Education: | Traditional Islamic Studies |
| Spouse: | Zulekha Begum |
| Website: | mhrd.gov.in |
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was born in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, into a family of intellectuals. His father, Maulana Khairuddin, was a prominent scholar, and his mother, Zohra Begum, was a woman of high moral and intellectual stature. Azad received his early education from his father and later studied under various religious scholars. A bright and curious student, Azad excelled in Arabic, Persian, and Islamic studies.
He moved to Calcutta (now Kolkata) in the early 1900s, where he became increasingly involved in the Indian freedom struggle.
Career and Freedom Struggle
Azad’s political journey began when he joined the Al-Hilal newspaper in 1912, which he used as a platform to advocate for independence and promote Islamic education. He became a key member of the Indian National Congress and was deeply involved in its activities, especially in mobilizing Muslims for the independence cause.
Azad played an instrumental role in the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22) led by Mahatma Gandhi. He was also a key figure during the Quit India Movement in 1942, which was a pivotal moment in India’s struggle for freedom.
He was imprisoned multiple times for his activism, and his ideas on Hindu-Muslim unity, secularism, and education remained central to his ideology.
Minister of Education & Contributions
After India gained independence in 1947, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad became the first Minister of Education in independent India. He is widely credited with laying the foundation for modern education in India. Some of his significant contributions include:
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Establishment of IITs (Indian Institutes of Technology): Azad is regarded as the father of the IITs, institutions that have become the backbone of India’s engineering education.
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Promotion of Higher Education: Azad promoted scientific and technical education, along with the establishment of numerous universities and research institutions.
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**Development of the National Policy of Education, which emphasized quality education for all.
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Encouraging the use of English and other international languages alongside regional languages to foster global communication.
Awards & Recognitions
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Bharat Ratna (1992): Posthumously awarded India’s highest civilian honor for his invaluable contribution to the nation.
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His autobiography, “India Wins Freedom,” remains one of the most respected works about India’s independence struggle.
Legacy
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad’s vision for India was one of unity, secularism, and progress. His efforts in shaping India’s educational landscape and his commitment to the nation’s secular fabric continue to inspire future generations. His speeches and writings on national integration, social reforms, and the importance of education remain integral to India’s post-independence growth.
References
Bharat Ratna – Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
