Who Was Madan Mohan Malaviya?

Madan Mohan Malaviya: The Nation Builder and Champion of Education

Madan Mohan Malaviya, a towering figure in India’s freedom struggle and a key architect of modern Indian education, was born on December 25, 1861, in Allahabad (now Prayagraj), Uttar Pradesh. He is best known as the founder of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of the largest residential universities in Asia, and for his pivotal role in India’s nationalist movement. A multifaceted personality, Malaviya was a scholar, educator, social reformer, lawyer, and a four-time president of the Indian National Congress. His life was dedicated to the cause of India’s independence, the upliftment of society, and the development of education as a tool for social and national transformation.

Early Life and Education

Madan Mohan Malaviya was born into a Brahmin family with deep roots in religious and scholarly traditions. His father, Pandit Brijnath, was a renowned Sanskrit scholar and recited the Srimad Bhagavatam, a Hindu scripture, for a living. Growing up in such a pious and scholarly environment, Malaviya developed a profound interest in religious studies and Sanskrit from an early age.

He received his early education in local schools before moving to Muir Central College in Allahabad. Here, he distinguished himself as an outstanding student, particularly in English and Sanskrit. His early exposure to Western education, coupled with his deep understanding of Hindu traditions and scriptures, shaped Malaviya’s worldview, which later became instrumental in blending modern education with Indian cultural values.

Entry into Public Life

Malaviya’s entry into public life came through his remarkable oratory skills. In 1886, at the age of 25, he delivered a powerful speech at the second session of the Indian National Congress (INC) in Calcutta (now Kolkata), presided over by Dadabhai Naoroji. His eloquence and vision for a free and united India immediately attracted national attention. This marked the beginning of his lifelong association with the Indian nationalist movement.

Although he started his career as a teacher at Allahabad District School, he soon ventured into journalism. In 1889, he joined the editorial team of the Hindi daily Hindustan and later the Indian Opinion, a bilingual newspaper. Malaviya recognized the importance of the press in mobilizing public opinion and disseminating nationalist ideas. As a journalist, he fearlessly advocated for India’s freedom from British rule and promoted social reforms, including the upliftment of the downtrodden and the need for universal education.

Role in India’s Freedom Struggle

Madan Mohan Malaviya played a significant role in India’s freedom struggle, balancing his commitment to education with his nationalist activities. He was deeply influenced by the moderate wing of the Congress, which advocated constitutional methods of protest and dialogue with the British authorities. However, his nationalism was not confined to politics; it encompassed a broader vision of social, cultural, and educational empowerment.

Malaviya served as the president of the Indian National Congress four times, in 1909, 1918, 1932, and 1933. His leadership was instrumental in shaping the policies of the Congress during these crucial years, particularly in advocating for swaraj (self-rule) and the protection of Indian interests against British exploitation.

He was also a key figure in the Non-Cooperation Movement, launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920. However, unlike many other leaders of the time, Malaviya did not fully endorse Gandhi’s call for a boycott of schools, colleges, and the legal system, as he believed in the constructive development of institutions within the existing framework. Malaviya’s moderate stance often placed him at odds with more radical leaders, but he remained committed to the broader nationalist cause.

Legal Career and Defense of Bhagat Singh

In addition to his work in education and politics, Malaviya had a distinguished legal career. He joined the Allahabad High Court as a lawyer in 1891 and soon earned a reputation as a brilliant advocate. One of his most notable contributions was his defense of the freedom fighter Bhagat Singh and his comrades, who had been sentenced to death by the British government for their revolutionary activities. Though Malaviya’s efforts did not succeed in saving their lives, his defense of Bhagat Singh remains a testament to his commitment to justice and the national cause.

In 1911, Malaviya decided to quit his legal practice to dedicate more time to public service and education. However, he returned briefly to the courtroom in 1924 to defend 177 freedom fighters accused in the Chauri Chaura case. His successful defense saved many lives, further cementing his reputation as a champion of justice.

Banaras Hindu University and Educational Vision

Madan Mohan Malaviya’s most enduring legacy is undoubtedly the establishment of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in 1916. He envisioned BHU as a national institution that would provide modern scientific education while preserving Indian cultural and religious values. His goal was to create an institution where Indians could receive a holistic education, one that would empower them to serve their country and contribute to its development.

The idea of BHU was born out of Malaviya’s deep concern for the educational backwardness of India under British rule. He believed that education was the key to national regeneration and that India needed its own institutions to educate its youth. In his view, education should not only impart knowledge but also build character, instill patriotism, and foster a sense of social responsibility.

Malaviya worked tirelessly to raise funds for the university, traveling across India and appealing to princes, industrialists, and the public for donations. His efforts were rewarded when BHU was formally established with the support of prominent figures like Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad of Baroda and Annie Besant, the British theosophist and Indian nationalist.

BHU, located in Varanasi (then Banaras), became a center of learning and a symbol of India’s quest for self-reliance in education. Malaviya served as its vice-chancellor from 1919 to 1938, during which time the university grew rapidly in size and reputation. BHU attracted students and scholars from across India and abroad, offering courses in disciplines ranging from science and engineering to the arts and humanities, all while promoting the study of Indian languages, culture, and philosophy.

Social Reforms and Advocacy for the Depressed Classes

Malaviya was also a passionate advocate for social reform, particularly the upliftment of the “Depressed Classes” (Dalits). While he was a staunch Hindu and deeply committed to preserving India’s cultural traditions, he recognized the need for social equality and the eradication of caste-based discrimination. He worked to promote the entry of Dalits into Hindu temples and fought for their educational and economic rights.

As a member of the Hindu Mahasabha, he sought to reform Hindu society from within, believing that social cohesion and unity were essential for national progress. Though his views on caste reform were more moderate compared to those of radical reformers like B.R. Ambedkar, Malaviya’s efforts in advocating for the upliftment of the marginalized were significant in the context of his time.

Legacy and Honors

Madan Mohan Malaviya passed away on November 12, 1946, just months before India gained its independence. His contributions to education, politics, and social reform have left an indelible mark on Indian society. In 2014, he was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, in recognition of his immense contributions to the nation.

His legacy continues to live on through the institutions he helped build, particularly BHU, which remains one of India’s premier centers of learning. Malaviya’s life and work serve as an inspiration to generations of Indians, reminding them of the power of education, patriotism, and social responsibility in the pursuit of national progress.

Conclusion

Madan Mohan Malaviya was a visionary leader whose life was dedicated to the service of India. Whether through his role in the freedom struggle, his contributions to education, or his advocacy for social reforms, Malaviya worked tirelessly to uplift his country and its people. His legacy as the founder of BHU, his leadership in the Indian National Congress, and his commitment to justice and equality make him one of the most respected figures in modern Indian history.