PM Modi Pays Tribute to Lokmanya Tilak on His Birth Anniversary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored Lokmanya Tilak on his birth anniversary, calling him a towering figure in India’s independence movement. Modi highlighted Tilak’s relentless efforts to ignite nationalism and his emphasis on education and service. Modi also shared his speech from last year’s Lokmanya Tilak National Award program in Pune.

Lokmanya Tilak: Early Life and Education

Born Keshav Gangadhar Tilak on 23 July 1856, Tilak was a nationalist, teacher, and activist. Known as Lokmanya, he was part of the Lal Bal Pal triumvirate. Tilak pursued education rigorously, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and later an L.L.B degree. His career transitioned from teaching to journalism, where he became actively involved in public affairs.

Contributions to Education and Nationalism

Tilak co-founded the New English School in 1880 to improve education for Indian youth. This success led to the establishment of the Deccan Education Society and Fergusson College. Tilak’s emphasis on integrating nationalist ideas into education helped inspire a generation. He later left education to focus entirely on India’s independence movement.

Legacy and Impact

Tilak was a staunch advocate of Swaraj, famously declaring, “Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it!” His efforts significantly shaped Indian consciousness and the independence movement. Mahatma Gandhi called him “The Maker of Modern India,” a testament to Tilak’s enduring influence on the country’s path to self-rule.