Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Birth Anniversary: 10 Facts About India's First Education Minister

Maulana Abul Kalam Azad wore multiple hats, including those of a journalist, freedom fighter, politician, and educationist.

Maulana Azad served as the Education Minister of independent India from 1947 to 1958.

Source : PIB

Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Birth Anniversary: Every year Since 2008, November 11 has been celebrated as National Education Day, commemorating the birth anniversary of India's First Education Minister, Abul Kalam Ghulam Muhiyuddin, affectionately known as Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. Maulana Azad served as the Education Minister of independent India from 1947 to 1958. He was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1992. Besides his significant role as an education minister, Azad wore multiple hats, including those of a journalist, freedom fighter, politician, and educationist. Here are 10 facts about the late education minister who played a transformative role in shaping India's education system.

National Education Day 2023: 10 Facts About Maulana Abul Kalam Azad

1. Originally named Abul Kalam Ghulam Muhiyuddin, he later came to be recognised as Maulana Azad. Maulana Azad was fluent in Arabic, Bengali, Hindustani, Persian and English.

2. A prolific Urdu poet from a young age, Azad also delved into writing treatises on religion and philosophy.

3. Gaining prominence as a journalist, Azad authored critiques of the British Raj, passionately advocating for Indian nationalism.

4. At just 35 years old, Azad became the youngest President of the Indian National Congress in 1923.

5. Leading the 'Khilafat Movement' (1919-26), Azad developed a close association with Mahatma Gandhi and embraced the principles of non-violent civil disobedience.

6. During this period, he played a key role in organizing the non-cooperation movement against the 1919 Rowlatt Acts.

7. Azad, a fervent supporter of Gandhi, emerged as a prominent Muslim leader opposing the creation of Pakistan.

8. Serving as independent India's first Minister of Education, Azad left an indelible mark on the country's educational landscape.

9. In tribute to his contributions, India celebrates National Education Day on his birth anniversary.

10. Posthumously honored with the Bharat Ratna in 1992, Azad's legacy endures as a symbol of dedication to education and the nation.