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Lal Bahadur Shastri, a prominent Indian statesman, and politician, held the distinguished position of India’s second prime minister from 1964 to 1966. Prior to this, he served as the sixth home minister of India from 1961 to 1963. Shastri was celebrated for his simplicity, unwavering integrity, and exceptional leadership during the Indo-Pak War of 1965, which earned him the nation’s profound respect.
His famous slogan, “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,” encapsulated his belief in the vital roles played by both soldiers and farmers in a nation’s growth and development. This biography of Lal Bahadur Shastri provides insight into his personal life, political career, remarkable achievements, and lasting legacy. India continues to commemorate his commitment to peace, agriculture, and economic progress, making his influence on the country enduring and deeply cherished.
Lal Bahadur Shastri Biography
Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri, the former Prime Minister of India, was born on October 2, 1904, in the quaint railway town of Mughalsarai, nestled just seven miles away from the vibrant city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. The story of his humble beginnings is both inspiring and heartwarming. At a tender age of one and a half, young Shastri lost his father, who was a dedicated teacher.
Left to face the world with her three children, Shastri’s mother, who was still in her twenties, made a courageous move. She decided to relocate to her father’s home, embarking on a journey of resilience and fortitude that would eventually shape the destiny of one of India’s most beloved leaders. Shastri’s life serves as a testament to the power of determination and the unwavering spirit of those who rise from adversity to make a lasting impact on the world.
Lal Bahadur Shastri Early Life (1904-1920)
Lal Bahadur Shastri, a prominent figure in Indian history, was born on October 2, 1904, into a Kayastha family in the town of Ramnagar, near Banaras. His early years were marked by family challenges, as his father, Sharada Prasad Shrivastav, passed away when Shastri was just 18 months old due to the bubonic plague. This tragedy compelled his young mother, Ramdulari Devi, to relocate with her two children to her father’s house in Mughalsarai. Despite her hardships, she gave birth to a daughter, Sundari Devi, in 1906. Shastri and his sisters were raised in the loving care of their maternal grandfather, Munshi Hazari Lal, until his unfortunate death from a stroke in 1908.
In a testament to the strength of Indian joint family values, Shastri’s extended family, including his great-uncle Darbari Lal and his cousin Bindeshwari Prasad, played a pivotal role in their upbringing. These family bonds and support systems were essential in the early 20th century, providing social security and nurturing relationships. While Shastri’s family faced financial constraints, his great-uncle, a school teacher in Ghazipur, and later his cousin Bindeshwari Prasad, who was also a school teacher in Mughalsarai, ensured that Shastri and his siblings received a good education.
In 1917, the family was uprooted again as Bindeshwari Prasad was transferred to Varanasi. Shastri continued his education, joining the seventh standard at Harish Chandra High School in Varanasi. These formative years of his life were characterized by resilience, strong family values, and a dedication to education that would later shape the leadership qualities of one of India’s most beloved Prime Ministers.
Lal Bahadur Shastri Political Career
Lal Bahadur Shastri’s remarkable political career was ignited by a deep sense of patriotism. Inspired by his teacher, Nishkameshwar Prasad Mishra, He took his first steps into the freedom struggle. His journey gained momentum in January 1921 when, in the 10th standard and just months away from his final exams,
Lal Bahadur Shastri attended a public gathering in Benares led by the iconic figures, Gandhi and Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya. It was there that he wholeheartedly embraced the cause of the Congress Party and became an active participant in the non-cooperation movement. Shastri’s commitment to Gandhi’s principles led him to join Lala Lajpat Rai’s Servants of the People Society, also known as Lok Sevak Mandal. In this role, he passionately worked to uplift the marginalized Harijan community in Muzaffarpur under Gandhi’s guidance. His dedication and unwavering spirit propelled him to eventually become the President of the Society, solidifying his legacy as a pivotal figure in India’s struggle for independence.
State Minister
After India gained independence, Lal Bahadur Shastri assumed important roles in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Initially appointed as a Parliamentary Secretary, he later became the Minister of Police and Transport under the leadership of Chief Minister Govind Ballabh Pant on August 15, 1947. This transition occurred when Rafi Ahmed Kidwai departed to take up a ministerial position at the national level. In his role as the Transport Minister, Shastri notably pioneered the appointment of women as conductors, contributing to gender inclusivity in the sector. He also made a significant impact as the minister responsible for the Police Department by introducing the use of water jets instead of lathis to disperse unruly crowds. His tenure as the Police Minister, known as the Home Minister before 1950, witnessed his successful efforts in quelling communal riots, managing the mass migration, and facilitating the resettlement of refugees in post-independence India. Lal Bahadur Shastri’s early contributions played a crucial role in shaping the nation’s governance and fostering social progress.
Cabinet Minister
In 1951, Lal Bahadur Shastri assumed the pivotal role of General Secretary within the All-India Congress Committee during the tenure of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. His responsibilities encompassed the selection of candidates and the direction of publicity and electioneering activities, and his contributions proved instrumental in the Congress Party’s resounding victories in the Indian General Elections of 1952, 1957, and 1962. During the 1952 elections, Shastri secured a triumphant win in the UP Vidhansabha from the Soraon North cum Phulpur West constituency with over 69% of the vote. Expected to continue as the Home Minister of Uttar Pradesh, he was instead called to the central government by Nehru. Shastri was appointed as the Minister of Railways and Transport in India’s first post-independence cabinet on May 13, 1952.
Shastri’s unwavering commitment to accountability was evident when he offered his resignation as the Minister of Railways in 1956 following the tragic Mahbubnagar train accident. Although Prime Minister Nehru initially declined, he accepted Shastri’s resignation after a subsequent accident, the 1956 Ariyalur train incident, just 2.5 months later. Shastri went on to serve as the Minister of Commerce and Industry in 1959, and then as the Minister of Home Affairs in 1961. In a momentous contribution, he laid the foundation for the Mangalore Port in 1964 during his tenure as a minister without portfolio. Lal Bahadur Shastri’s career as a cabinet minister left an indelible mark on India’s political landscape, characterized by his dedication to public service and a commitment to ethical responsibility.
Lal Bahadur Shastri Prime Minister
Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, passed away on May 27, 1964, leaving a significant leadership vacuum. The Congress Party’s President at the time, K. Kamaraj played a pivotal role in the swift appointment of Lal Bahadur Shastri as the new Prime Minister on June 9. Lal Bahadur Shastri, despite his mild-mannered and soft-spoken demeanor, was a staunch proponent of Nehruvian socialism. This made him an appealing choice for those who wished to prevent the rise of the conservative right-wing leader, Morarji Desai.
In his inaugural broadcast as Prime Minister on June 11, 1964, Lal Bahadur Shastri conveyed a resolute vision for the nation:
“There comes a time in the life of every nation when it stands at the crossroads of history and must choose which way to go. But for us, there need be no difficulty or hesitation, no looking to the right or left. Our way is straight and clear the building up of a socialist democracy at home with freedom and prosperity for all, and the maintenance of world peace and friendship with all nations.”
FAQs on Lal Bahudar Shastri Biography
Who was Lal Bahadur Shastri?
Lal Bahadur Shastri was India's second Prime Minister, a prominent political leader known for his simplicity and integrity. He served as Prime Minister from 1964 to 1966 and played a pivotal role during the Indo-Pak War of 1965
Where and when was Lal Bahadur Shastri born?
Lal Bahadur Shastri was born on October 2, 1904, in Mughalsarai, a town near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India
When did Lal Bahadur Shastri become India's Prime Minister?
He became India's Prime Minister on June 9, 1964, following the death of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India
What is the significance of his slogan Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan?
This slogan, 'Jai Jawan Jai Kisan' symbolises Shastri's appreciation for the contributions of both the armed forces and farmers to the nation. It became a rallying cry during the Indo-Pak War of 1965.
How is Lal Bahadur Shastri remembered today?
Lal Bahadur Shastri is remembered for his leadership during the war, his dedication to the welfare of the nation, and his commitment to peace and prosperity. He remains an inspirational figure in Indian history.
