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Nelson Mandela
Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, one of the most outstanding revolutionary leaders of the 20th century, was born on July 18, 1918, in Mvezo, South Africa. He fought an extended battle against the inhuman practice of apartheid in South Africa and served 27 years in prison from 1962 to 1990. Nelson Mandela was a believer in Gandhian ways of non-violent protests but, at the same time, employed violent means of struggle as well.
After completing his degree in Law, Nelson Mandela joined the anti-colonial struggle. He became a member of the African National Congress to fight for the rights of Black people in South Africa. Soon he became the centre figure of the anti-apartheid movement and got support from all over the world. Due to his revolutionary activities and anti-colonial politics, he was imprisoned and sentenced to life imprisonment in 1962 by the then South African regime. Still, even in jail, he continued his battle, activists from around the world supported his cause, and an international campaign was developed for his release. Even so, he had to serve 27 years in prison; in 1990, he was released, and through negotiations with the government of the day, he ended the barbaric practice of apartheid in South Africa.
In the first multiracial elections in 1994, Nelson Mandela’s party ANC emerged victorious, and he became the first black President of South Africa.
In his honour and to recognize his contribution towards eliminating racial discrimination worldwide, India awarded Nelson Mandela its highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, in 1990. , one of the most incredible human beings, died on December 5, 2013.
Bharat Ratna Award
The highest civilian award of the Republic of India is known as BHARAT RATNA. It came into existence on January 2, 1954. The award was in recognition of extraordinary performance in literature, science, public services, and arts. This award belongs to all people of India without discrimination of sex, race, or age. Previously award belonged to only limited criteria, but in December 2011, the criteria were changed to include all fields of human endeavour.
Maximum 3 nominees may be awarded per year, and the PM especially makes recommendations for the same to the President. A Sanad (certificate) signed by the President and a medallion in the shape of a peepal leaf are the only two things being given to the recipients; no money is granted with the award.
In the Indian order of precedence, the Bharat Ratna award is seventh. But Bharat Ratna recipients are constitutionally prohibited from using the award name as the title per Article 18 of the Constitution of India.
Since 1954, 44 distinguished individuals have been awarded this prestigious and highest civilian award.
