Art and Culture | Chapter - Personalities in News

Figure 3.1: Iconic personalities who shaped India's history and culture.

1. Freedom Fighters and Social Reformers

DR. B.R. AMBEDKAR

Babasaheb contributed significantly to the formation of the Reserve Bank of India, with his concept presented to the Hilton Young Commission forming the foundation for the central bank.

Few important works of Dr. Ambedkar:

Mook Nayak (weekly) - 1920
The Problem of the Rupee: Its Origin and Its Solution - 1923
The Evolution of Provincial Finance in British India - 1925
Janta (weekly) - 1930
The Annihilation of Caste - 1936
Who were Shudras - 1946
The Untouchables - 1948
Thoughts on Linguistic States - 1955
Buddha Or Karl Marx - 1956

BIRSA MUNDA

Context: The Prime Minister recently launched a commemorative stamp and coin to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Birsa Munda in Jamui, Bihar.

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To commemorate the birth anniversary, Birsa Munda Tribal Gaurav Upvans will be built in tribal dominated districts of the country.
June 9, 2024, marks the 124th death anniversary of tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda, who died in 1900 at the age of 25.

About Birsa Munda:

Birsa Munda was a tribal leader and religious reformer.
He belonged to the Munda tribe of Chotanagpur, a region in present-day Jharkhand and Odisha.
He was born in 1875 in the village of Ulihatu, in the Mundari princely state of Khunti, Jharkhand.
Founder of Birsait faith: In the late 19th century, Birsa Munda established the religious movement, known as "Mundaism," "Kisangism," or the "Birsait Sect." A synthesis of animism and indigenous beliefs focused on the worship of a single god.
As the leader of Birsait, Birsa Munda was revered as a God-like figure, earning titles such as 'Bhagwan' (God) and 'Dharti ka Abba' (Father of the Earth) from his followers.
Legacy: State of Jharkhand was created on his birth anniversary in 2000. His birth anniversary was declared 'Janjatiya Gaurav Divas' by the Central Government in 2021.
Death: The British arrested him in 1895 and he died in prison in 1900.
Impact of the Munda Revolt: Establishment of the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act, 1908.

About Ulgulan movement (1899–1900)

- The movement led by Birsa Munda, was a tribal uprising in Jharkhand against British exploitation, oppressive policies, and landlord dominance. It symbolised tribal resistance and self-rule aspirations wherein he encouraged the tribals to refuse to follow colonial laws and pay rent.
- It incorporated weapons and guerrilla warfare to drive out foreigners.
- Munda spent most of his time between 1886 and 1890 in Chaibasa, close to the centre of the Sardari agitation.
- He participated in anti-missionary and anti-government programmes and started a movement called 'Ulgulan', or 'The Great Tumult.'

PERIYAR EV RAMASAMY

Context: 146th Birth Anniversary of Periyar EV Ramasamy was recently commemorated in Chennai.

About Periyar EV Ramasamy:

Early Life and Legacy: An Indian social activist and politician, he is known as the 'Father of the Dravidian Movement.' He founded the Self-Respect Movement and Dravidar Kazhagam (DK), which sought to dismantle the caste system and promote social equality.
Title and Recognition: The title "Periyar," meaning "Respected Elder" reflects his stature. Since 2021, Tamil Nadu has celebrated his birth anniversary as 'Social Justice Day' in honor of his contributions to social reform.
Vaikom Satyagraha (1924): Active role in advocating lower-caste access to the public path at the Vaikom temple. His involvement led to his arrest twice, earning him the title "Vaikom Veerar" (Hero of Vaikom).
Social and Political Reform: Challenging the dominance of Brahmins in politics and social life, especially within the bureaucracy, aligning with the Justice Party and promoting the Self-Respect Movement to combat caste oppression.
Opposition to Hindi Imposition: In the 1930s, Periyar opposed the push for Hindi, seeing it as an imposition on Tamil identity and self-respect. This opposition became a central point of the Dravidian Movement.
Dravidar Kazhagam: In the 1940s, Periyar founded Dravidar Kazhagam. It later split, with C. N. Annadurai forming the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in 1949, continuing Periyar's fight for social equality and Tamil pride.

RANI CHENNAMMA

Context: A commemorative postage stamp was released on the 200th anniversary of Kittur Vijayotsava, celebrating Rani Channamma's victory over British rule on October 23, 1824.

About Rani Chennamma:

Rani Chennamma was the Indian Queen of Kittur, a former princely state in present-day Karnataka.
She belonged to the Lingayat community and received training in horse riding, sword fighting and archery from a young age.

About Kittur Uprising:

- Rani Chennamma became the ruler of Kittur after her husband's death in 1816. In 1824, after her son's untimely death, she adopted Shivalingappa as her heir. The East India Company opposed this adoption and ordered Shivalingappa's expulsion.
- In 1823, Rani Chennamma wrote to Governor Mountstuart Elphinstone, seeking a peaceful resolution, but the British rejected her plea. This led to a war, where Rani Chennamma, aided by Sangolli Rayanna, fought fiercely against the British.
- The war continued until 1829, with Sangolli Rayanna continuing the guerrilla resistance.
- Rani Chennamma's victory and legacy are commemorated annually during the Kittur Utsava from 22–24 October.

About Lingayat Dharma (Veerashaiva Religion):

- Founder: Basaveshwara (also known as Basavanna), a 12th-century philosopher and social reformer from Karnataka.
- Philosophy: Advocates monotheism, worshipping Lord Shiva in the form of a Linga (Ishtalinga). Rejects caste hierarchy and promotes equality and social justice. Opposes rituals, temple worship, and idol worship in favor of personal devotion.
- Geographical Distribution: Predominantly found in Karnataka, particularly in the central and northern regions. Also found in parts of Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu.
- Vachana Literature: Written in Kannada, it consists of simple, devotional, and philosophical prose-poetry. Emphasizes spiritual equality, social reform, and personal devotion to God. Prominent works include vachanas of Basavanna, Allama Prabhu, and Akka Mahadevi.
- Famous Personalities: Basavanna (Founder), Allama Prabhu (Mystic), Akka Mahadevi (Female poet-saint), Channabasavanna (Basavanna's nephew).

SWAMI DAYANAND SARASWATI

Context: PM inaugurated 200th Jayanti celebrations of Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati in New Delhi.

About Dayanand Saraswati (1824-1883):

Dayananda Sarasvati, originally named Mula Sankara, was born in 1824, in Tankara, Gujarat.
A believer in the supreme authority of the Vedas, he established the Arya Samaj in 1875, leading a reform movement within Hinduism.
In 1876, he gave the call for Swaraj as "India for Indian", which would later be picked up by the likes of Lokmanya Tilak and Mahatma Gandhi.
He opposed child marriage and advocated widow remarriages.
Through Arya Samaj he opposed idol worship, animal sacrifice, basing caste upon birth rather than upon merit, untouchability, and temple offerings.
He upheld the infallibility of the Vedas, the doctrines of karma, and samsara (the process of death and rebirth).
His magnum opus, Satyarth Prakash (1875), emphasised the "Return to Vedic principles."
He supported the idea of shuddhi, to bring back other religion converts to Hinduism.
Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, India's second President, described Dayanand Saraswati as "a maker of modern India."
Work for Education: The Dayanand Anglo Vedic (DAV) schools came into existence in 1886 to realize his vision. The first DAV School was established at Lahore with Mahatma Hansraj as the headmaster.
Literary Work: Satyarth Prakash (1875), Veda Bhasya Bhumika, and Veda Bhashya. He gave the slogan "Back to the Vedas".
Followers: His followers included Sri Aurobindo and S. Radhakrishnan.

About Arya Samaj:

- A monotheistic social reform movement founded in 1875 in erstwhile Bombay that rejected the ritualistic excesses and social dogmas of orthodox Hinduism.
- It promoted a united Hindu society based on Vedic teachings.
- Contribution of Arya Samajist: The Arya Samaj opposes worship of murtis (images), animal sacrifice, shraddha (rituals on behalf of ancestors). They fought the rigidities of the hereditary caste system.

LACHIT BORPHUKAN

Context: PM Unveiled Statue of Valour for Ahom General Lachit Borphukan.

About Lachit Barphukan:

Lachit Borphukan was born on 24 November 1622 at Charaideo in Assam.
He was appointed to the post of commander of 'Hanstidhara Tamuli' by the then minister of the state while he first held the post of commander of the state of Ahom.
The Lachit Borphukan gold medal is an annual award given to the best cadet at the National Defence Academy (NDA).

About Ahom-Mughal Conflict:

- In 1662, the Mughal army, led by Mirjumla under Emperor Aurangzeb, invaded Assam and made the Ahom state a tax-based region.
- King Chakradhwaj Singha appointed Lachit Borphukan to lead the army against the Mughals, who had taken control of Guwahati.
- Lachit recaptured Guwahati and successfully defended it during the Battle of Saraighat.
- Lachit Divas is celebrated on November 24 every year in Assam to honor his heroism and the victory at the Battle of Saraighat.
- Lachit Borphukan died a year after the battle due to natural causes. His remains are buried at Lachit Maidam in Hoolungapara, 16 km from Jorhat, which was built in 1672 by Swargadeo Udayaditya Singha.

SARDAR VALLABHBHAI PATEL

Context: The government announced to commemorate Sardar Patel's 150th birth anniversary with a 2-year nationwide celebration starting this year.

About Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel:

Born on 31st October 1875 in Nadiad, Gujarat.
Key Positions held: First Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of independent India.
Contributions in the Freedom Movement:
- Kheda Satyagraha (1918): Patel fought for farmers against unjust British taxes, integrating their cause into the national freedom struggle.
- Bardoli Satyagraha (1928): His leadership in resisting unjust land revenue hikes led the women of Bardoli to bestow upon him the title of 'Sardar' (leader).
- Indian National Congress: As INC President in 1931, he led the Karachi session, endorsing the Gandhi-Irwin Pact and passing resolutions on Fundamental Rights and Economic Policy.
Post-Independence Contributions: Integrated Princely States into the Indian Union; Established the Indian Administrative Service (IAS); Reformed the police and judiciary, laying the foundation for a strong administrative framework as India's first Home Minister.

About Statue of Unity:

- It is the world's tallest statue (182 meters) dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, inaugurated on October 31st, 2018.
- The statue stands against the backdrop of the Satpura and Vindhyachal hills and overlooks the Narmada River and Sardar Sarovar Dam.
- Added to the 'Eight Wonders of the SCO' list in 2020.

BHAGAT SINGH

Context: September 28 marked the birth anniversary of Bhagat Singh.

About Bhagat Singh:

Born: September 28, 1907, in Banga, Punjab (now in Pakistan).
Bhagat Singh witnessed the Jallianwala Bagh massacre at age 12, which fueled his vow to free India from British rule.
Bhagat Singh joined the National College, Lahore, founded by Lala Lajpat Rai, where he was exposed to revolutionary ideas and focused on the Swadeshi Movement.
Bhagat Singh joined the Hindustan Republican Association in 1924, which later transformed into the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) in 1928.
HSRA was founded by Chandra Shekhar Azad, Sukhdev Thapar, and Sachindra Nath Sanyal in 1928.
The Naujawan Bharat Sabha, founded by Bhagat Singh in 1926, aimed to mobilize youth for the freedom struggle.
In 1926, Bhagat Singh, with the help of Sohan Singh Josh, founded the Worker and Peasant Party. The party launched a monthly magazine, Kirti, in Punjab, which focused on issues affecting workers and peasants.
Martyrs' Day, observed on March 23, commemorates the execution of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru, honoring their sacrifice.
Bhagat Singh's literary contributions include Why I Am an Atheist and The Jail Notebook and Other Writings.

2. Scientists, Artists, and Global Personalities

AFANASY NIKITIN

Context: Russian artists performed at a concert organized by the Kozhikode Corporation and the Russian House in Kozhikode to celebrate 555 years of the visit of Russian traveler Afanasy Nikitin to India.

About Afanasy Nikitin:

Nikitin, a Russian explorer who arrived in India before Vasco da Gama, reached Cambay (Khambhat) in Gujarat, offering early insights into India's diverse culture.
Nikitin's journey in 1469 marked a significant moment in the historical connections between Russia and India.
He also visited the court of Bahamani sultan, Muhammad Shah III.
In his book, Voyage Beyond Three Seas, Nikitin provides valuable insights into 15th-century India.
His accounts of the conflicts between the Bahmani Sultanate and the Vijayanagara Empire highlight the political landscape of the Deccan.

MAHARISHI SUSHRUTA

Context: The All-India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) hosted the Second National Seminar SAUSHRUTAM Shalya Sangoshti in honour of Sushruta Jayanti 2024 (15th July).

About Sushruta:

He was an ancient physician from Kashi (Varanasi), revered as the Father of Indian Medicine and Surgery.
He is usually dated to the 7th or 6th centuries BCE but could have lived and worked as early as 1000 BCE.
According to legend, the Gods passed their medical insight down to the Sage Dhanvantari who taught it to his follower Divodasa, who then instructed Sushruta.
He is the author of Sushruta Samhita, written in Sanskrit, part of the Great Trilogy of Ayurvedic Medicine alongside Charaka Samhita by Maharishi Charak and Astanga Hridaya by Vagabhata.
It extensively covers pathology, anatomy, surgical management, as well as the treatment of 12 types of fractures, 6 varieties of dislocations, skin grafting, and rhinoplasty (a technique for reconstructing the nose), among other topics.
Sushruta, hailed as the 'Father of Surgery', introduced cadaver dissections for anatomical study, pioneered the use of anaesthesia with substances like wine and henbane, and specialised in cataract surgery.

MUHAMMAD YUNUS

Context: He has been serving as chief advisor of the interim government of Bangladesh since August, 2024.

About Muhammad Yunus:

Also known as 'Banker to the Poor', he is a prominent figure known for his contributions to 'Social Entrepreneurship and Microfinancing.'
He received the Nobel Peace Prize (2006) for founding Grameen Bank and pioneering microcredit and microfinance.
In 1983, he established the Grameen Bank in Bangladesh, focusing on providing small loans to the impoverished without requiring collateral.
His concept of microcredit has been influential globally, inspiring similar microfinance efforts in around 100 countries, including developed nations.
The Grameen Bank model primarily focuses on lending to women, recognizing their crucial role in family and community welfare.
In 2011, he co-founded Yunus Social Business – Global Initiatives (YSB), which supports and creates social businesses worldwide.
He is a recipient of numerous awards, including the World Food Prize, King Hussein Humanitarian Leadership Award, Volvo Environment Prize, Nikkei Asia Prize for Regional Growth, Franklin D. Roosevelt Freedom Award, and Seoul Peace Prize.

SAVITRIBAI PHULE

Context: Every year on 3rd January, India celebrates Savitribai Phule Jayanti.

About Savitribai Phule:

Social Reformer, Poet, and Advocate: Key figure in India's 19th-century social reform movement.
Birth: Born on January 3, 1831, in Naigaon, Maharashtra.
Marriage: Married to Jyotirao Phule at the age of 9, while he was 13.
Death: Passed away on March 10, 1897, while battling the plague.
Contributions:
- Pioneering Educator: India's first woman teacher; founded the first girls' school in Pune in 1848.
- Promoter of Widow Remarriage: Led a barbers' strike in Mumbai and Pune to end the practice of shaving widows' heads.
- Social Reformer: Co-founded Satyashodhak Samaj to oppose the caste system and oppressive practices.
- Support for Women: Established a shelter for destitute women in 1864 and founded Mahila Seva Mandal to promote women's rights and fight against dowry.
- Literary Contributions: Kavya Phule (1854), and Bavan Kashi Subodh Ratnakar (1892).

RANI VELU NACHIYAR

Context: Every year on 3rd January, India celebrates Rani Velu Nachiyar Jayanti.

About Rani Velu Nachiyar:

She was the first queen to resist British colonial rule, a princess of Ramanathapuram from the Sethupathi dynasty, and revered by Tamils as Veeramangai.
She was trained in war tactics, weaponry and martial arts like Valari and Silambam, horse riding, and archery.
Skilled in languages like French, English, and Urdu.
After her husband's death in battle against British soldiers, she sought revenge. She escaped with her daughter and lived under Palayakaarar Kopaala Naayakkar's protection for eight years.
Died on December 25, 1796.

SRILA PRABHUPADA

Context: The Prime Minister marked Srila Prabhupada's 150th anniversary at Bharat Mandapam, releasing a commemorative stamp and coin in his honour.

About Srila Prabhupada:

Born as Abhay Charan, he was the founder of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), commonly known as the Hare Krishna movement.
He was the founder of the Gaudiya Mission, which played a pivotal role in preserving and spreading the fundamental tenets of Vaishnava faith.

VASUDEV BALWANT PHADKE

Context: The Home Minister paid tribute to freedom fighter Vasudev Balwant Phadke on his death anniversary.

About Vasudev Balwant Phadke:

He was one of the first revolutionaries of India, also known as the "Father of the Indian Armed Rebellion".
Speeches of leaders like Dadabhai Nauroji and M G Ranade inspired him.
First Indian leader to spread the mantra of swaraj across villages, inspiring rebellion against foreign rule.
1879: Formed one of India's first revolutionary armies with Gopal Hari Karve, Vishnu Gadre, Ganesh Dedhar, and others.
1874: Along with Waman Prabhakar Bhave and Laxman Narhar Indapurkar, he set up the Poona Native Institution.
Death: 1883

SATYENDRA NATH BOSE

Context: A 5-day International Conference on Photonics and Quantum Communication was recently held by S N Bose National Centre in Kolkata.

About Satyendra Nath Bose:

Birth: Known as Father of the God Particle, he was born in Kolkata (then Calcutta) in 1894. He was an Indian Mathematician and Physicist, an expert in theoretical physics.
Breakthrough: Derived Planck's Law for black body radiation without referencing classical electrodynamics.
Contributions: Helped refine the Standard Model of Particle Physics.
Recognitions: Received the Padma Vibhushan in 1954. Shri Rabindranath Tagore dedicated his only book in science, Vishwa Parichay, to him. Nominated for the Nobel Prize in Physics. Bosons, a class of subatomic particles, were named after him.
Death: Passed away on February 4, 1974, at 80, due to a severe heart attack.

PETER HIGGS

Context: Recently, Nobel laureate and noted Physicist Peter Higgs, known for predicting God's Particle has passed away.

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In the 1960s, Peter Higgs conducted research using Bose-Einstein statistics.
He theorized the existence of a particle that survives briefly before breaking apart into other fundamental particles, calling it the "Higgs Boson" or "God Particle."
In 2012, CERN scientists confirmed the existence of the Higgs Boson using the Large Hadron Collider, a 27 km particle accelerator.
In 2013, Peter Higgs and Francois Englert were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for their work, explaining how subatomic particles acquire mass.

About Higgs Boson:

- It is one of the 17 fundamental particles in the Standard Model of Physics, which explains the construction of the universe.
- A type of boson, the Higgs boson is a force-carrying subatomic particle. It carries the force that particles experience when interacting with the Higgs field, an energy field responsible for granting particles their mass.
- The mass of a particle is directly related to how strongly it interacts with the Higgs boson. Consequently, protons and neutrons have a higher mass compared to electrons.
- Features: Mass: 125 billion electron volts (about 130 times more massive than protons). Chargeless, with zero spin (no quantum mechanical angular momentum). It is the only elementary particle with no spin.
- Significance: Researchers aim to use the Higgs boson to explore deeper cosmic mysteries, including dark matter.

About Standard Model of Particle Physics:
- The Standard Model of Particle Physics is scientists' current best theory to describe the most basic building blocks of the universe.
- It explains how particles called quarks (which make up protons and neutrons) and leptons (which include electrons) make up all known matter.

RAJA RAVI VARMA

Context: On Raja Ravi Varma's 176th birth anniversary, the first authentic copy of his painting "Indulekha" will be unveiled at Kilimanoor Palace, Kerala.

About Raja Ravi Varma:

Raja Ravi Varma was an Indian painter, also known as the Father of Modern Indian Art.
Other names: Koil Thampuran of Kilimanoor, Ravi Varma Koil Thampuran.
Place of Birth: He was born in Kilimanoor Palace, now part of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
Artistic Style: He blended Hindu mythology (Puranas, Mahabharata, Ramayana) with European painting styles.
Artistic Achievements: First Indian to use oil paints. Mastered lithographic reproduction of his work.
Renowned paintings: Damayanti Talking to a Swan, Shakuntala Looking for Dushyanta, Shantanu and Matsyagandha.
Recognition: Kaisar-i-Hind Gold Medal: Awarded in 1904 by the then Viceroy Lord Curzon. A crater on the planet Mercury was named in his honour in 2013.
Contribution to Indian Art: Pioneered a new movement by blending Western realism with Indian themes. Established a lithographic press in 1894 to mass-produce copies of his paintings.

AHILYA BAI HOLKAR

Context: The 300th birth anniversary of the Maratha Queen Ahilya Bai Holkar was recently celebrated.

About Ahilya Bai Holkar:

Early Life: Born in 1725 in a shepherd family in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, she was married to Khande Rao Holkar of Holkar dynasty.
Leadership and Governance: She took over as a monarch after her husband's death, defying patriarchal norms. Led her kingdom to 30 years of peace and financial stability. Appointed Tukoji Holkar as military commander. Earned the title "Punyashlok Ahilyabai" for her virtuous leadership. British historian John Keay called her "The Philosopher Queen."
Cultural and Religious Contributions: Popularized the Maheshwari saree, now a GI-tagged product from Madhya Pradesh. Resurrected jyotirlingas and renovated temples at Somnath, Varanasi, Trimbak, Gaya, Pushkar, Vrindavan, Nathdwara, Haridwar, Badrinath, and Kedarnath.
Economic and Social Initiatives: Promoted Maheshwari saree production, empowering women and ensuring steady income for weavers. Enhanced revenue collection and supported traditional crafts in Maharashtra. Developed Indore, conserved forests and wildlife, and boosted trade and commerce.
Inclusivity and Social Harmony: Promoted social harmony and inclusivity, focusing on mainstreaming Bhil and Gond castes.
Recognition: Commanded respect from contemporaries and later historians like Jadunath Sarkar, Annie Besant, and John Keay. In her honor, Ahmednagar district has been renamed as Ahilyanagar.

3. Religious Figures and Modern Leaders

GURU PADMASAMBHAVA

Context: The International Buddhist Confederation recently hosted a two-day conference on the 'Life and Living Legacy of Guru Padmasambhava' in Nalanda, Bihar.

About Guru Padmasambhava:

Also known as Guru Rinpoche, he was a revered figure from the eighth century in ancient India, often regarded as the second Buddha.
He is credited with spreading Buddha Dhamma across the Himalayan region and is a pivotal figure in Tibetan Buddhism, especially within the Nyingma school.
His name means "Lotus-Born," reflecting his legendary birth from a lotus flower in a lake in Oddiyana.
He taught Vajrayana Buddhism, emphasizing esoteric practices such as mantras, mudras, and visualizations as paths to enlightenment.

MAULANA ABUL KALAM AZAD

Context: National Education Day is celebrated on November 11, annually since 2008 to honors the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (First Education Minister).

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2024 Theme: Focus on inclusive, high-quality education.

About Maulana Abul Kalam Azad:

He was a prominent journalist, freedom fighter, and senior leader in the Indian National Congress.
In 1912, he launched the Urdu weekly Al-Hilal to promote national integration and resist British colonialism. It was banned by the British government in 1914 for its anti-colonial stance and influence on the masses.
In 1920, he launched the Urdu weekly Al-Balagh to continue his advocacy for independence and reforms, after Al-Hilal was banned.
Contributions to India's Education System: Became India's first Education Minister post-independence. Established the first IIT in Kharagpur in 1951. University Grants Commission (UGC) was set up in 1953. Co-founded and played a key role in relocating the Jamia Millia Islamia to New Delhi. Contributed significantly to the development of Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bangalore.
In 1992, he was posthumously awarded India's highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, in recognition of his invaluable contributions to the nation.

USTAD ZAKIR HUSSAIN

Context: Tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away at 73 due to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a chronic lung disease.

About Zakir Hussain:

Born on March 9, 1951, in Mumbai, Zakir Hussain was the son of the legendary tabla player Ustad Alla Rakha.
Zakir Hussain's mastery of the tabla allowed him to blend classical Indian music with various global music traditions.
Shakti (a musical group) was started in New York by him along with guitarist John McLaughlin and Indian violinist L. Shankar.
In 1996 he was involved in composing music for the opening ceremonies of the Summer Olympics in Atlanta.
Collaborations: Planet Drum and Global Drum Project with Mickey Hart; Sangam with Charles Lloyd and Eric Harland; CrossCurrents with Dave Holland and Chris Potter; In trio with Bela Fleck and Edgar Meyer.
Awards and Recognition: He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan (2023), Padma Bhushan (2002) and Padma Shri (1988). At the 66th Annual Grammy Awards (Feb 4, 2024), Zakir Hussain became the first Indian musician to win 3 Grammys: Best Global Music Album, Best Global Music Performance, and Best Contemporary Instrumental Album. First Grammy: In 1992, the album Planet Drum with Mickey Hart won a Grammy. He was also conferred with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1996), the National Heritage Fellowship (2019) in the U.S., and numerous other awards. Recipient of the USA's National Heritage Fellowship and Officer of France's Order of Arts and Letters. Nominated for an award at the 1983 Cannes Film Festival for his musical contributions to the film Heat and Dust.
Legacy: He is the founder and president of Moment Records, an independent record label. He was a resident artist at Princeton University and Stanford University, and, in 2015, was appointed Regents Lecturer at UC Berkeley.

DR. MANMOHAN SINGH

Context: Former PM Manmohan Singh died at the age of 92 on 26th December 2024.

About Manmohan Singh:

Born: September 26, 1932, Punjab (undivided India).
Literary Contribution: India's Export Trends and Prospects for Self-Sustained Growth.
Key posts in the Government of India: Chief Economic Advisor (1972–1976), Governor of the Reserve Bank (1982–1985), Head of the Planning Commission (1985–1987).
Political Career: Rajya Sabha Member: 1991 to 2019 (Assam), 2019 to 2024 (Rajasthan). Leader of Opposition, Rajya Sabha: 1998 to 2004. Prime Minister of India: 2004–2014 (two terms). Finance minister: From 1991 to 1996 in P. V. Narasimha Rao govt. Has never served as a member of the Lok Sabha.
Awards and Honours: Padma Bhushan (1987), Padma Vibhushan (2008), Jawaharlal Nehru Birth Centenary Award (1995), Adam Smith Prize, University of Cambridge (1956). Euro Money Award for Finance Minister of the Year (1993). Asia Money Award for Finance Minister of the Year (1993, 1994). Honoured with degrees from Cambridge and Oxford Universities.
1991 Economic Reforms: Dr. Manmohan Singh served as the Finance Minister during the 1991 balance of payments crisis. He initiated the LPG reforms (Liberalization, Privatization, and Globalization) also known as the Rao-Manmohan Model that played a crucial role in transforming India's economy.

DESHBANDHU CHITTARANJAN DAS

Context: Lok Sabha Speaker paid tribute to Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das on his birth anniversary at Samvidhan Sadan.

About Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das:

Birth: November 5, 1870, in Calcutta (now Kolkata).
Role in the Independence Movement: Known as 'Deshbandhu' (Friend of the Nation), Das played a pivotal role in India's freedom struggle. He served as President of the Indian National Congress in 1922. Disagreeing with Congress's stance on council entry, he founded the Swaraj Party in 1923 with Motilal Nehru to push for self-governance. In the Alipore Bomb Case (1909), he rose to prominence by successfully defending nationalist leader Aurobindo Ghosh.
Literary Contributions: He was an acclaimed Bengali poet, with works like Malancha, Mala, and Sagar Sangeet reflecting his passion for Bengali culture and literary talent. His poetry often drew inspiration from the rich tradition of Vaishnava literature.

PT. JAWAHARLAL NEHRU

Context: The Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund (JNMF) announced plans to launch the Nehru Archive, a comprehensive digital platform on Nehru's life and legacy.

About Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru:

Birth: November 14, 1889, in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh.
1929-31: Advocated for complete independence for India in the 1929 Lahore session; Drafted a resolution on Fundamental Rights and Economic Policy, ratified in the 1931 Karachi Session presided by Sardar Patel.
1947: Became the first Prime Minister of Independent India and was re-elected for consecutive terms. He remained PM for more than 16 years till his demise in 1964.
Contributions: Literary Work: Authored The Discovery of India, Glimpses of World History, and his autobiography Toward Freedom, as well as Letters from a Father to His Daughter. Education: Established institutions like IITs, AIIMS, and IIMs; included free and compulsory primary education for all children in his five-year plan. Industrial Development: Set up heavy industries, including iron and steel plants in Durgapur and Rourkela. Institutions: Laid the foundation for the National Defence Academy and the Atomic Energy Commission. Foreign Policy: Initiated the Non-Aligned Movement; signed the Panchsheel with China in 1954, marking the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence; known as the architect of India's foreign policy.

About the Nehru Archive:

- Aim: To make Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru's contributions accessible to future generations, showcasing his role in shaping modern India and the world.
- Highlights: The archive will also feature Pt. Nehru's speeches from 1917 to 1964, writings by his contemporaries, material from global archives, as well as lesser-known and unpublished works by Pt. Nehru.
- Inspiration: Inspired by the U.S. based Wilson Center, the archive seeks to be the primary source for research on Pt. Nehru.

GURU NANAK DEV JI

Context: Recently, Guru Nanak Jayanti was celebrated with religious fervour across India and the world.

More on News:

This year marks the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

About Guru Nanak Jayanti:

Guru Nanak Jayanti, also called Gurpurab, is the most significant Sikh festival.
It marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Sikh Guru.
It is celebrated on Kartik Poornima, the 15th lunar day of Kartik (Hindu calendar).

About Guru Nanak Dev Ji:

Also known as Baba Nanak, he was born on April 15, 1469, in Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi (modern-day Nankana Sahib, Pakistan).
He was one of the ten Sikh Gurus.
Motto: "kirat karo, naam japo and vand chhako"
He founded Sikhism in the 15th century and authored 974 hymns in the Guru Granth Sahib (holy scripture of Sikhism).
Death: 22 September 1539 (age 70 years), Kartarpur, Pakistan.
Guru Nanak's teachings: The oneness of the Creator. Selfless service to humanity. Social justice and equality for all. The Guru's role as a spiritual guide and social reformer.

VINAYAK DAMODAR SAVARKAR

Context: Recently, the Prime Minister has paid tributes to Veer Savarkar on his Punya Tithi.

About Vinayak Damodar Savarkar:

Also known as Swatantryaveer Savarkar or Veer Savarkar, he was a freedom fighter, politician, lawyer and a writer.
Born on: May 28, 1883, in Bhagur Village, Nashik (Maharashtra).
Contribution in India's freedom of struggle: He coined the ideology of 'Hindutva'. He was a pivotal leader in the 'Hindu Mahasabha' in 1907 and served as its President for 7 years (1937-1943).
Literary Works: "The Indian War of Independence," which depicted the Indian revolt of 1857.
Savarkar's years in Prison: He was sentenced to two life imprisonments and sent to the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Kala Pani) in 1911. He was released from prison in 1924. Wrote Hindutva: Who is a Hindu?, a Hindu ideological pamphlet, during his imprisonment. Played a key role in the 'Ratnagiri Hindu Sabha' post-release. Began a fast unto death in February 1966, forsaking food, water, and medicines. Passed away on February 26, 1966.

Organizations Associated to Veer Savarkar:

- Mitra Mela: It was the predecessor of Abhinav Bharat Society, formed in Nasik during his teenage years to spread national & revolutionary ideas.
- Abhinav Bharat Society (Young India Society): Established with the support of his brother Ganesh Damodar Savarkar in 1904, it attracted numerous revolutionaries and political activists, establishing branches across India and London.
- India House: Founded by Shyamji Kishan Verma in 1905, India House served as a hub for promoting nationalist sentiments among Indian students in London.
- Hindu Mahasabha: Initially formed in 1907, it expanded to a national level in 1915, with eminent figures such as Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya and Lala Lajpat Rai.

USHA MEHTA

Context: "Ae Watan Mere Watan", movie was released recently based on the biography of Usha Mehta.

About Usha Mehta:

Inspiration: Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, she joined the Quit India Movement to contribute to India's independence.
Method of struggle: Established an underground radio station, Congress Radio, during the Quit India Movement in 1942 to spread the message of independence.
Congress Radio: Key figures: Usha Mehta, Babubhai Khakar, Vithalbhai Jhaveri, Chandrakant Jhaveri, and Nariman Printer. Role: Used to broadcast Gandhiji's messages and nationalist ideas during British censorship.
Congress Radio Case: The trial of Usha Mehta and co-accused (Babubhai Khakar, Chandrakant Jhaveri, Vithalbhai Jhaveri, and Nanak Gainchand Motwane) created a sensation in Bombay. Outcomes: Vithalbhai and Motwane were acquitted, while Usha, Babubhai, and Chandrakant received stern sentences.
Release and Recognition: Released from Pune's Yerawada Jail in March 1946 and celebrated as "Radio-ben" in nationalist media. Awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian honor, by the Union Government in 1998.
Demise: Passed away after a brief illness in 2000.

GURU RAVIDAS JAYANTI

Context: The Prime Minister unveiled a new statue of Sant Guru Ravidas in Varanasi on his 647th Birth Anniversary.

About Sant Ravidas Ji:

Early Life: He was born in a poor family in Sir Gobardhanpur, near Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. His birthplace is now known as Shri Guru Ravidas Janam Asthan. Discipleship: He was a disciple of Jagatguru Ramanand.
Contributions: Bhakti Movement: Emphasised personal devotion to God as a means to salvation and influenced contemporaries like Meera Bai. Focus on Nirguna Bhakti: He was the champion of Nirguna sampradaya of Sant Parampara. Ravidas-panthis: His disciples came to be known as Ravidas-panthis and followers came to be known as Ravidassias. Philosophy of Sahaj: He also mentioned 'Sahaj', a mystical state where there is a union of the truths of the many and the one. The compositions of Guru Ravidasji were included in Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
Social Reforms: Abolition of Caste System: He opposed caste hierarchy, promoting equality beyond birth-based distinctions.

PANDIT DEEN DAYAL UPADHYAYA

Context: 25 September, 2024 is celebrated as the 108th birth anniversary of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya.

About Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya:

Early Life: Born in Nagla Chandrabhan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh.
Political Involvement and Philosophy: Joined Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in 1937 and became a lifelong pracharak (campaigner) of the. Helped establish the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS), the forerunner of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 1951. Introduced the concept of 'Integral Humanism' (Ekatma Manavavad) in 1965 focusing on holistic development- physical, mental, and spiritual. He promoted a politics of integrity, focusing on probity, inclusion, and dedicated service to the people.
Key Principles: Antyodaya: His vision of uplifting the last person in society still remains a core principle of Indian governance. Nationalist Economy: Advocated for a Swadeshi economic model and proposed a system of self-reliance rather than capitalism or socialism. Bharatiyata and Dharma: Believed in a decentralized system ensuring equality and justice, and advocated for "Education for All" and "Har Hath Ko Kam, Har Khet Ko Paani."
Antyodaya Diwas: His birth anniversary is celebrated to honor his contributions to social and political thought.

GULZAR

Context: Lyricist Gulzar was selected for 58th Jnanpith Award, the highest literary honour in the country.

About Gulzar:

Sampooran Singh Kalra, popularly known as Gulzar, is celebrated for his works in Hindi cinema and is considered one of the finest Urdu poets.
In poetry, he invented a new genre, 'Triveni', a non-muqaffa poem of three lines.
Earlier Achievements: Sahitya Akademi Award for Urdu in 2002, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2013, Padma Bhushan in 2004, and at least 5 National Film awards for his works.
One of his finest works includes the song "Jai Ho" for the film "Slumdog Millionaire", which received an Oscar award (2009) and a Grammy Award (2010).

High-Yield Interactive UPSC Quiz (Chapter 3 Focus)

Q1. With reference to Birsa Munda, consider the following statements:

1. He belonged to the Munda tribe of Chotanagpur.
2. He founded the Birsait faith, a synthesis of animism and indigenous beliefs.
3. The Chotanagpur Tenancy Act, 1908 was established as a result of the Munda Revolt.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Correct Answer: D. All three statements are correct. Birsa Munda was a tribal leader from the Munda tribe, founded the Birsait faith, and the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act, 1908 was a significant outcome of the Munda Revolt.

Q2. Consider the following pairs of personalities and their associated movements/organizations:

1. Periyar EV Ramasamy - Self-Respect Movement
2. Dayanand Saraswati - Arya Samaj
3. Chittaranjan Das - Swaraj Party

How many of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

Correct Answer: C. All three pairs are correctly matched. Periyar founded the Self-Respect Movement, Dayanand Saraswati founded the Arya Samaj, and Chittaranjan Das co-founded the Swaraj Party.

Q3. With reference to the contributions of Satyendra Nath Bose, consider the following statements:

1. He derived Planck's Law for black body radiation without referencing classical electrodynamics.
2. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on the Standard Model.
3. A class of subatomic particles called Bosons was named after him.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Correct Answer: B. Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Satyendra Nath Bose was nominated for the Nobel Prize but never received it. The Nobel Prize in Physics for the discovery of the Higgs Boson mechanism was awarded to Peter Higgs and Francois Englert.

Q4. Consider the following statements about Ahilya Bai Holkar:

1. She was known as 'Punyashlok Ahilyabai' for her virtuous leadership.
2. She popularized the Maheshwari saree, which is now a GI-tagged product.
3. In her honor, Ahmednagar district has been renamed as Ahilyanagar.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Correct Answer: D. All three statements are correct. Ahilya Bai Holkar was known as 'Punyashlok Ahilyabai', popularized Maheshwari saree (now GI-tagged), and Ahmednagar district has been renamed Ahilyanagar in her honor.

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