Abul Kalam Azad, Indian scholar and politician, Indian Minister of Education (b. 1888)

Abul Kalam Ghulam Muhiyuddin Ahmed bin Khairuddin Al-Hussaini Azad, famously known to history and the people of India as Maulana Azad, was a towering figure in the Indian independence movement. Born on November 11, 1888, and passing away on February 22, 1958, he was a polymath — an influential Indian independence activist, a profound Islamic theologian, a prolific writer, and a senior leader within the Indian National Congress. The honorific 'Maulana' translates to 'Our Master,' signifying deep respect, while 'Azad,' meaning 'Free,' was the powerful pen name he adopted, embodying his fervent desire for an independent India.

His immense contributions to establishing India's educational framework post-independence are commemorated annually on his birthday, November 11th, as National Education Day across the nation. This celebration underscores his lasting legacy as the country's First Minister of Education.

Early Life, Intellectual Pursuits, and the Dawn of Activism

Even as a young man, Maulana Azad displayed remarkable intellectual prowess, composing eloquent poetry in Urdu and authoring profound treatises on religion and philosophy. This intellectual foundation soon propelled him into the public sphere, where he rose to prominence through his incisive work as a journalist. He fearlessly published works that were sharply critical of the oppressive British Raj, vehemently espousing the cause of Indian nationalism and awakening a sense of patriotism among the masses. His influential newspaper, Al-Hilal, became a crucial platform for promoting Hindu-Muslim unity and anti-British sentiments, highlighting his early commitment to a unified India.

A Catalyst in the Independence Movement

Maulana Azad’s political journey intensified as he emerged as a leader of the Khilafat Movement, a pan-Islamic political protest campaign launched by Indian Muslims against the British. During this pivotal period, he forged a close and impactful association with the revered Indian leader, Mahatma Gandhi. Deeply inspired by Gandhi's revolutionary ideas of non-violent civil disobedience, Azad became an enthusiastic and committed supporter. He actively worked to organize the non-cooperation movement, a nationwide protest against the unjust 1919 Rowlatt Acts, which allowed the British to imprison suspected individuals without trial. Azad wholeheartedly embraced Gandhi's ideals, including the promotion of Swadeshi (indigenous) products to bolster India's economy and the unwavering pursuit of Swaraj (Self-rule) for the nation.

Leading the Indian National Congress

His dedication and leadership qualities were swiftly recognized within the Indian National Congress. In 1923, at the remarkably young age of 35, Maulana Azad etched his name in history as the youngest person ever to serve as the President of the Indian National Congress. His influence only grew, and he was one of the main organizers of the Dharasana Satyagraha in 1931, a significant protest against the British salt tax. He became one of the most important national leaders of his time, consistently championing Hindu–Muslim unity, secularism, and socialism – principles he believed were fundamental to a free India.

Azad's leadership was particularly critical during a tumultuous period from 1940 to 1945, when he again served as Congress president. It was under his presidency that the momentous Quit India Movement was launched, demanding an immediate end to British rule. For his role, Azad was imprisoned along with the entire Congress leadership, enduring the harsh realities of colonial incarceration. Throughout his public life, he tirelessly worked to bridge divides and foster unity, notably through his writings in the Al-Hilal newspaper, which advocated strongly for communal harmony.

Founding Institutions and Shaping Education

Beyond his political activism, Maulana Azad was a visionary institution builder. In October 1920, he was elected as a member of the foundation committee to establish Jamia Millia Islamia in Aligarh, U.P., an institution deliberately founded without any financial assistance from the British colonial government to ensure its independence. He later played a crucial role in assisting with the university's campus relocation from Aligarh to New Delhi in 1934, cementing its future. Today, Gate No. 7, the main entrance to the university's primary campus, proudly bears his name as a tribute to his pioneering efforts.

Following India's hard-won independence, Maulana Azad's intellectual and administrative capabilities found their ultimate expression as he became the nation's First Minister of Education. In this pivotal role, he laid the foundational stones of India's modern education system, emphasizing universal primary education, technical education, and cultural development. His vision continues to shape educational policies, reflecting his belief that education was key to national progress and integration.

Frequently Asked Questions about Maulana Azad

Who was Maulana Azad?
Maulana Azad was an iconic Indian independence activist, a prominent Islamic theologian, a gifted writer, and a senior leader of the Indian National Congress. He is best remembered as India's First Minister of Education and a champion of Hindu-Muslim unity.
What was Maulana Azad's role in the Indian independence movement?
He was a key figure, leading the Khilafat Movement, working closely with Mahatma Gandhi on the non-cooperation movement, serving multiple terms as President of the Indian National Congress (including during the Quit India Movement), and advocating for Swaraj and national unity against the British Raj.
Why is his birthday celebrated as National Education Day?
His birthday, November 11th, is celebrated as National Education Day across India to honor his foundational contributions as the nation's First Minister of Education, recognizing his efforts in shaping India's modern educational system.
What is the significance of his pen name 'Azad'?
'Azad' means 'Free' in Urdu, and he adopted this pen name to signify his unwavering commitment to India's freedom from British rule. It represented his spirit of independence and defiance.
What were his key contributions after India's independence?
After independence, Maulana Azad served as India's First Minister of Education, where he played a critical role in laying the framework for the country's education policy, promoting primary, secondary, and higher education, and establishing key cultural institutions.