On 2nd October we celebrate every year Gandhi Jayanti to honour the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. But you know, on the same day, India also observes Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti, celebrating the birth of the country’s second Prime Minister.
Every Indian remembers Lal Bahadur Shastri as the second Prime Minister of India, a leader defined by simplicity, integrity, and quiet strength. While many know him for his slogan ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’ and his decisive leadership during the 1965 Indo-Pak war, Shastri’s life was filled with lesser-known stories and personal sacrifices that shaped the man behind the title.
Early life and family roots
The father of Shastri ji, Sharad Prasad Srivastava, was initially a school teacher who later became a clerk in the revenue office at Prayagraj. His mother, Ramdulari Devi, was the daughter of Munshi Hazari Lal, who was the headmaster and English teacher at a railway school in Mughalsarai.
Do you know, young Shastri Ji had to swim across the Ganga to reach school. Yes! As his family could not afford a boat ride. This early display of perseverance foreshadowed the resilience that would mark his political and personal life.
A student inspired by Gandhi Ji
Shastri Ji’s political consciousness awakened early. When he was in the 10th standard, just three months from sitting his final examinations, he attended a public meeting in Benares hosted by Mahatma Gandhi and Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya.
The Mahatma urged students to withdraw from government schools and join the non-cooperation movement. Inspired by this call, Shastri Ji immediately withdrew from Harish Chandra High School and joined the local branch of the Congress Party as a volunteer.
He began actively participating in picketing and anti-government demonstrations, demonstrating a commitment to principle over personal convenience.
His political activism came at a price. Shastri went to jail for the first time at the age of seventeen in 1921. This early brush with imprisonment underscored his dedication to India’s freedom struggle, even as a teenager.
The title that became his identity
If you think ‘Shastri’ is his real surname, the answer is no. Interestingly, ‘Shastri’ was not his original surname. After graduating from Kashi Vidyapeeth University in 1925, he received the title ‘Shastri,’ which means scholar. From that point on, Lal Bahadur Shastri was known by the name we recognise today.
Simplicity in leadership
This moment is really memorable. A notable example is a car loan. Which was of Rs. 5,000 he had taken from Punjab National Bank, which was repaid after his sudden death by his widow, Lalita, from her pension. He never flaunted wealth or power, and his simplicity inspired both citizens and colleagues alike.
Interesting story of Shastri Ji
He never informed his mother that he had become the Railway Minister, he only said that he works in the railway. Once when she unknowingly attended a Railway event where he was present, everyone was shocked to hear that this quiet, unassuming man was indeed her son. Shastri explained later, “My mother does not know that I am a minister. If she comes to know, she will start recommending people and I will not be able to refuse… and she will also have arrogance.” This story captures both his love and respect for his mother, as well as his self-discipline and commitment to duty.
Champion of agriculture and food security
As Prime Minister, Shastri ji promoted transformative initiatives to strengthen India’s agriculture and food supply. He championed the White Revolution, supporting the Amul milk co-operative and helping establish the National Dairy Development Board. These efforts aimed to increase milk production and supply, ensuring nutrition for millions.
Simultaneously, Shastri ji recognised the need to improve grain production and launched policies supporting the Green Revolution in India in 1965. His vision was forward-looking: India needed to achieve self-sufficiency in food production to maintain economic stability and national security.
Recognition and legacy
Despite his relatively short tenure as Prime Minister, Shastri ji’s contributions were recognised posthumously. He became the first posthumous recipient of the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award.
A life remembered on screen and beyond
Shastri ji may not have the same cinematic presence as other Indian leaders, but his life has inspired documentaries, books, and stories highlighting his principled approach. His quiet courage, moral integrity, and focus on the common citizen make his life a rich subject for study.
A man beyond the public eye
What emerges from these lesser-known facts is a nuanced portrait of Lal Bahadur Shastri. He was a young boy who braved rivers to attend school, a student inspired by Gandhi, a disciplined leader who valued simplicity, and a Prime Minister who balanced vision with modesty. Every decision, from personal finance to national policy, reflected his deep ethical grounding and concern for the people he served.
Also Read: Lesser-Known Facts About Gandhi Ji
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