Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was an important leader in India’s fight for freedom, a writer, and the first Education Minister of independent India. Known for promoting Hindu-Muslim unity, he supported peaceful protests led by Gandhi. His efforts in education are honored by celebrating his birthday as National Education Day across the country.
Early Life of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
Abul Kalam Azad was born as Muhiyudin Ahmad in 1888 in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. When he was two, his family moved to Calcutta (now Kolkata), India. His father was a respected scholar, and his mother came from a family of renowned scholars in Medina.
Education and Early Interests
Azad’s education began at home, where he learned multiple languages, including Persian, Urdu, and Arabic. He also studied various subjects such as history, philosophy, and mathematics. He loved reading and was homeschooled by tutors. By the age of twelve, he was running a library, a reading room, and a debating society. He was well-versed in Islamic theology, science, and philosophy from a young age.
Maulana Azad as a Journalist
Azad began writing and publishing poetry and articles by the age of eleven under the pen name ‘Azad’. In 1912, he started a weekly publication called Al-Hilal, which criticized British rule. It became so popular that the British banned it in 1914 under the Press Act. Azad then started another publication, Al-Balagh, which also faced a ban in 1916. For his revolutionary writings, Azad was banned from entering several regions and was deported to Bihar until 1920.
Role of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad in India’s Freedom Movement
In 1905, Azad opposed the partition of Bengal and became involved in revolutionary activities. He worked with prominent revolutionaries like Aurobindo Ghosh. His travels to Egypt, Syria, Turkey, and France in 1908 influenced his nationalist ideas. Azad joined the Indian National Congress and supported Gandhi’s Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22). In 1923, he became the youngest president of Congress at the age of 35.
During the 1930 Salt Satyagraha, Azad was arrested. He supported Nehru’s presidential bid in 1936 and worked for unity among Congress leaders. From 1940 to 1946, Azad served as Congress president and was arrested for participating in the Quit India Movement in 1942.
Advocate for Hindu Muslim Unity
Azad believed in unity between Hindus and Muslims. He promoted these views in his writings and speeches, advocating for a united and secular India. He was against the partition and was deeply saddened by the violence that followed. Azad helped set up refugee camps and provided aid in violence-affected regions.
Azad’s Contribution to Education
Known as ‘Maulana’ for his deep knowledge, Azad played a key role in shaping India’s education policies. In 1920, he co-founded Jamia Millia Islamia in Aligarh. He supported free and compulsory primary education for children up to 14 years. Azad was a firm believer in blending Eastern and Western educational ideas.
He was instrumental in creating important educational bodies, including the University Grants Commission (UGC), and supported institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc).
Life of Maulana Azad After Independence
After India’s independence, Azad became the first education minister, serving from 1947 to 1958. He promoted school and college programs, and emphasized higher education. He argued for central government control over education to ensure uniform standards across India.
Azad was also involved in founding cultural organizations like the Sahitya Academy, Sangeet Natak Academy, and Lalit Kala Academy. He founded the Indian Council of Cultural Relations in 1950 to foster international cultural exchange.
Literary Works
Azad was an accomplished writer. His notable works include India Wins Freedom, Gubhar-e-Khatir, Tazkirah, and Tarjumanul Quran.
Death and Legacy of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad passed away on 22 February 1958. In 1992, he was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor. His birthday, 11 November, is celebrated as National Education Day in India to honor his contributions to education.
The Maulana Azad Education Foundation, established in 1989, promotes education among the underprivileged. The Maulana Abul Kalam Azad National Fellowship supports higher studies for students from minority communities.
Azad’s vision and dedication to education and unity continue to inspire generations in India.
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