PM Leads Nation in Honouring Phule, Begins 200th Anniversary Celebrations

The nation on Friday paid rich tributes to Mahatma Jyotirao Phule on his birth anniversary, with prominent leaders across the country remembering his immense contribution to social reform , equality , and education .

Leading the tributes, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Phule as a visionary who dedicated his life to the ideals of justice and empowerment . Marking the beginning of the reformer’s 200th birth anniversary celebrations , the Prime Minister highlighted how Phule transformed education into a powerful tool for social change, particularly for women and marginalised communities.

President Droupadi Murmu also paid homage, praising Phule’s relentless efforts to eradicate social discrimination and uplift the underprivileged . Several other leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, joined in remembering the reformer, noting that his ideas continue to inspire the fight for equality and justice in modern India.

Born in 1827 in present-day Maharashtra, Phule was one of India’s earliest and most influential social reformers. Along with his wife, Savitribai Phule, he pioneered women’s education by establishing the first school for girls in Pune. At a time when caste-based discrimination was deeply entrenched, Phule worked tirelessly to challenge social hierarchies and promote dignity for all sections of society.

He founded the Satyashodhak Samaj , an organisation aimed at promoting social equality and opposing caste oppression. Through his writings and activism, Phule exposed the injustices faced by lower castes and advocated for a more inclusive and just social order. His emphasis on education , rational thinking , and social reform laid the foundation for future movements aimed at achieving equality.

Leaders across party lines emphasised that Phule’s vision remains highly relevant today, especially in the ongoing efforts to ensure inclusive development and equal opportunities for all. The 200th birth anniversary celebrations are expected to include nationwide programmes and initiatives to spread awareness about his teachings and legacy.

As the country remembers one of its greatest reformers, leaders expressed hope that the ideals of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule will continue to guide society towards progress, equality , and justice .