New Delhi, April 4: April 5 is not just a date; it marks the birth anniversary of Jagjivan Ram, affectionately known as ‘Babuji’, born in 1908 in the small village of Chandwa, Bihar. He was a leader dedicated to spreading equality and justice throughout his life. This dedication is why his birth anniversary is celebrated as Samta Diwas. Notably, this day is a public holiday in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
From a young age, Babuji faced discrimination. Due to his caste, he was not allowed to drink water from the same vessel as others in school. Instead of accepting this injustice, he protested and broke the separate vessels. His bravery helped bring about changes in school regulations.
Babuji studied at Ara Town School, where he excelled academically. He later attended Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and earned a B.Sc. degree from Calcutta University. During his college years, he joined Gandhi’s anti-untouchability movement, spreading the message of equality in society.
Babuji was not just a student or a leader; he dedicated his life to working for Dalits and marginalized communities. In the 1930s, he actively participated in the freedom struggle. In 1934, he founded the All India Ravidas Sabha and the All India Dalit Association. He believed that all members of society, regardless of their caste, should have equal access to places like temples and wells.
He was arrested during the Civil Disobedience Movement in 1940 and again during the Quit India Movement in 1942. After India gained independence, Babuji entered politics and became the first Minister of Labour. He later held ministerial positions in vital departments such as Railways, Agriculture, Defence, and Communications. He served as Defence Minister during the 1971 India-Pakistan War.
Babuji’s political career was long and inspiring. At just 28, he became a member of the Bihar Legislative Council and remained a member of Parliament for 50 years. In 1977, he was appointed as India’s Deputy Prime Minister. His life exemplifies the fight for the rights of the poor and marginalized, bringing about significant societal change.
His personal life had its ups and downs. His first wife passed away in 1933, after which he married Indrani Devi, and they had two children, Suresh Kumar and Meera Kumar, both of whom became politicians and played significant roles in the Lok Sabha.
Babuji passed away on July 6, 1986. His last rites were performed at a site in Delhi now known as ‘Samta Sthal’. He dedicated his life to eradicating social evils and ensuring equality for all. Therefore, every year, his birth anniversary on April 5 is celebrated as Samta Diwas, reminding us that discrimination, casteism, and unjust behavior are never acceptable in society.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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