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Abul Kalam Azad Death Anniversary 2025: As independent India’s first education minister (15 August 1947 – 2 February 1958), he worked tirelessly to promote research in eastern literature and learning.
Jawaharlal Nehru ( from right) regarded Abul Kalam Azad as ‘Mir-i-Karawan’ (the caravan leader). (File pic)
Abul Kalam Azad Death Anniversary 2025: February 22 marks the death anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, a towering figure in India’s struggle for Independence. A brilliant scholar, writer and senior leader of the Indian National Congress, he played a crucial role in shaping the nation’s destiny. Beyond his political contributions, Azad was a champion of education.
As independent India’s first education minister (15 August 1947 – 2 February 1958), he worked tirelessly to promote research in eastern literature and learning.
He was instrumental in establishing the University Grants Commission (UGC) and played a key role in setting up the first Indian Institute of Technology (IIT). His vision also laid the foundation for India’s modern education system.
The revered leader passed away on February 22, 1958, leaving behind a rich legacy.
6 Interesting Facts About Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
- Abul Kalam Azad’s full name is Sayyid Ghulam Muhiyuddin Ahmed bin Khairuddin Al-Hussaini Azad.
- Despite having no formal schooling, Abul Kalam Azad was exceptionally well-educated. By 15, he was teaching students twice his age. He had an impressive command of multiple languages, including Arabic, English, Urdu, Hindi and Bengali.
- While he received a traditional Islamic education from his father, he secretly learned English, defying societal expectations at the time.
- Abul Kalam Azad wasn’t just a leader, he was also a fearless journalist. In 1912, he launched Al-Hilal, a weekly Urdu newspaper in then Calcutta that played a key role in inspiring the masses.
- His literary works include India Wins Freedom, Ghubar-e-Khatir, Tazkirah, Tarjumanul Quran and Ghulabe Khatir.
- Jawaharlal Nehru regarded him as ‘Mir-i-Karawan’ (the caravan leader), describing him as “a very brave and gallant gentleman, a finished product of the culture.”
6 Inspiring Quotes Of Abul Kalam Azad
- “We must not for a moment forget that it is a birthright of every individual to receive at least the basic education without which he cannot fully discharge his duties as a citizen.”
- “One who is not moved by music is unsound of mind and intemperate; is far from spirituality and is denser than birds and beasts because everyone is affected by melodious sounds.”
- “Educationists should build the capacities of the spirit of inquiry, creativity, entrepreneurial and moral leadership among students and become their role model.”
- “Science is neutral. Its discoveries can be used equally to heal and to kill. It depends upon the outlook and mentality of the user whether science will be used to create a new heaven on earth or to destroy the world in a common conflagration.”
- “No program of national education can be appropriate if it does not give full consideration to the education and advancement of one-half of the society that is the women.”
- “Art is the education of emotions and is thus an essential element in any scheme of truly national education. Education, whether at the secondary or the university stage, cannot be regarded as complete if it does not train our faculties to the perception of beauty.”
Maulana Azad’s impact on India remains immeasurable. His dedication to education, knowledge and freedom continues to inspire generations.
