C. Rajagopalachari: The First and Last Indian Governor-General of Free India
Chakravarti Rajagopalachari (C. Rajagopalachari), born on December 10, 1878, in the village of Thorapalli, Tamil Nadu, was a prominent Indian leader, freedom fighter, and statesman. He was one of the most respected figures in post-independence India and played a key role in Indian politics, both during and after British rule.
Early Life and Education:
Rajagopalachari was born to a wealthy family in a small village. He received his early education in local schools and later attended the Government Arts College in Chennai (then Madras). A gifted student, he graduated with a degree in arts and quickly became involved in public service.
Role in the Freedom Struggle:
Rajagopalachari’s political career began with his involvement in the Indian independence movement. He was drawn to the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and became an ardent follower of the Gandhian philosophy of non-violence and self-reliance. He joined the Indian National Congress in the early 1900s and participated in various movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922) and the Salt Satyagraha (1930). He was jailed multiple times by the British authorities for his participation in the struggle for India’s independence.
Rajagopalachari was also known for his role in the Quit India Movement (1942) and his efforts to unite the Indian political landscape during a time of great division, particularly after the Congress’s split from the British Government.
Achievements in Politics:
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Chief Minister of Madras Presidency (1937–1939): Rajagopalachari served as the Chief Minister of the Madras Presidency, which was one of the provinces in British India. During his tenure, he worked towards social reforms, including the promotion of education and the upliftment of the lower castes. He also worked on economic reforms to improve the welfare of the common people.
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Proponent of Social Reforms: Rajagopalachari was known for his progressive stance on social issues, particularly his advocacy for the rights of the marginalized. He was a strong supporter of Hindu-Muslim unity and worked to maintain harmony between the different communities during the tumultuous period leading up to India’s independence.
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Gandhi’s Trusted Ally: Rajagopalachari was a close ally of Mahatma Gandhi and was deeply influenced by his vision for India. He was a member of the Quit India Movement and played a vital role in coordinating efforts in the southern part of India.
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Role in Post-Independence India: After India gained independence, Rajagopalachari continued to be an influential figure. He was a proponent of democracy, social justice, and economic modernization. He served as the first Indian Governor-General of independent India, succeeding Lord Mountbatten, who was the last British Governor-General.
Governor-General of Independent India:
Rajagopalachari was appointed as the first and last Indian Governor-General of free India in 1948 after Lord Mountbatten’s tenure. His appointment marked a historic moment as he was the first Indian to hold the office of Governor-General after India gained independence in 1947.
His tenure was short, from June 21, 1948, to January 26, 1950, but it was significant for a few reasons:
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Transition to Republic: Rajagopalachari oversaw the transition from a constitutional monarchy to a republic. India adopted its Constitution on January 26, 1950, and Rajagopalachari stepped down as Governor-General when the office was abolished with the establishment of the Republic of India.
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Role in Symbolizing Unity: He worked to maintain a sense of national unity and harmony in the early years after independence. He emphasized national integration and was deeply involved in efforts to promote the values of the Constitution.
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Post-Independence Diplomacy: Rajagopalachari played a role in India’s early diplomacy, including efforts to settle the Kashmir issue with Pakistan and stabilize relations with neighboring countries.
Later Life and Legacy:
After his tenure as Governor-General, Rajagopalachari continued his political career and became the first Chief Minister of the newly formed state of Tamil Nadu in independent India, serving from 1952 to 1963. He was instrumental in the formation of the Indian National Congress (Organisation) after the split of the Congress Party in the 1960s.
He also founded the Swatantra Party in 1959, a political party that opposed the socialist policies of Jawaharlal Nehru’s government. The party focused on advocating for a free-market economy, individual liberties, and limited government intervention. Though the party did not achieve much success in the long run, it played a role in shaping Indian politics.
Rajagopalachari was also a prolific writer and is well known for his literary works, particularly his retellings of Indian epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. His writings continue to be a source of inspiration for many.
He was a statesman who lived by the ideals of Gandhian philosophy, but he was also known for his pragmatic approach to politics. His deep commitment to national unity and social justice made him a revered figure.
Rajagopalachari passed away on January 25, 1972, but his legacy remains etched in Indian history. His contributions to India’s independence, his role in the establishment of the republic, and his efforts to promote a just and equitable society continue to inspire generations.
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Final Thoughts:
C. Rajagopalachari’s role in shaping post-independence India cannot be overstated. As the first and last Indian Governor-General of free India, he was pivotal in the transition from a British Dominion to a sovereign republic. He was a man of vision, action, and integrity, whose dedication to India’s democratic ideals, social reforms, and national integration has earned him a prominent place in the history of India.
