Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid rich tributes to Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya on his birth anniversary, calling him a guiding force in India’s journey toward a “Viksit Bharat.”
Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya (1916–1968), a political thinker, economist, and leader of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, is remembered for his philosophy of Integral Humanism (Ekatma Manav Darshan). His vision emphasized development rooted in India’s cultural ethos, advocating harmony between the individual, society, and nature, rather than focusing solely on material progress. Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya led the Jana Sangh until his untimely and mysterious death in 1968.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “On the occasion of his birth anniversary, millions of salutations to the great son of Mother India and the pioneer of Integral Humanism, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya ji. His nationalist ideas showing the path to prosperity for the nation and the principle of Antyodaya will be of great use in building a Viksit Bharat.”
In a video message, the Prime Minister added, “Several people consider Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya a source of inspiration and follow his path. His thoughts are still as relevant today as they were then. He used to say that the measure of a country’s progress is the person standing last in the line. In this Amritkaal of Independence, we should keep learning from his path to move the country forward.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah called Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya the “proponent of Integral Humanism,” highlighting that his philosophy regards the individual, society, and nation as a holistic unit, emphasizing economic, moral, and cultural upliftment. Shah noted that Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s principles of Cultural Nationalism and Antyodaya continue to inspire patriots across the country.
Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda described him as a “great nationalist thinker” and said, “His concept of Antyodaya is vital in fulfilling the resolve to build a developed and self-reliant India. His ideas on national and public service will remain an inspiration for millions.” Nadda also participated in the Swachhata Hi Seva 2025 cleanliness drive to mark the occasion.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh added that Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s philosophy of Integral Humanism and his ideas on Antyodaya are “an inspiration for making our country self-reliant, inclusive, and strong. His life is an unparalleled example of service, dedication, and patriotism that continues to guide us today.”
-IANS