: Rare Pics From India’s History: 10 Legends Who Shaped The Country’s Growth #IndiaNEWS #Culture Even as societies, cultures, governments, and mindsets have evolved through the years, there are

Rare Pics From India’s History: 10 Legends Who Shaped The Country’s Growth #IndiaNEWS #Culture
Even as societies, cultures, governments, and mindsets have evolved through the years, there are significant moments in history that are untouched by modernity. Moments and events that shaped our very identities as citizens of this nation.

As we recall these events that have outlined India’s past as we know it, we celebrate 10 legendary figures behind them. They went beyond the call of duty and braved the odds to contribute to the country’s growth.

1. Maulana Abul Kalam Azad

India’s first education minister, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Picture credits: The Better India

A scholar, a former Congress president, a freedom fighter, and India’s first education minister, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad’s contribution to the Indian education system is unparalleled.

He set up India’s first IIT (Indian Institute of Technology). He also founded ???Sahitya Academy, Sangeet Natak Academy and Lalita Kala Academy to provide a common platform for the diverse literary and cultural heritage of India. ???

During his tenure, the importance of scientific education, higher study, and establishing more research institutes was emphasised.

2. Surendranath Banerjee

Surendranath Banerjee was the second Indian to clear the British-instituted civil service exam, Picture credits: The Better India

Racial discrimination wasn’t uncommon during British rule. When Surendranath Banerjee cleared the British-instituted civil service exam, he was dismissed due to his background. And later in 1869, he was dismissed again due to a dispute about his age.

Surendranath used adversity to fuel his zeal, and in 1876, he launched the ‘The Bengal’ newspaper. He then used this platform to address the topic of racial discrimination, and speak out against issues, such as the age limit of students appearing for the civil service exam.

In the same year, he went on to found the ‘Indian National Association’ where he propagated the same values.

3. Dhondo Keshav Karve

Albert Einstein with Dhondo Kesha Karve, Picture credits: The Better India

Known as the man behind Indias first university for women, Dhondo Keshav Karve’s work in the social field and the welfare of people has its roots in his childhood.

When his wife Radhabai passed away at the age of 14, Karve established the Widow Remarriage Association in 1893. He then went on to marry Godubai, another widow. Apart from this, Karve was vocal about social issues that plagued the community at the time, like untouchability. He persisted, in spite of being insulted by orthodox members of society.

In 1896, he set up India’s first school for widows at Hingane village and then a residential school for girls that trained them for jobs.