Power changed hands, but simplicity endured. This phrase perfectly captures the essence of Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s inaugural President whose life of austerity set a benchmark for public servants. Hailing from rural Bihar, his path from a brilliant student to the custodian of the world’s largest democracy is a tale of unwavering principles.
Early life in Ziradei village shaped his grounded persona. Under his scholarly father’s guidance, he mastered languages young. Academic accolades followed: top ranks at Presidency College, postgraduate degrees, and pioneering legal honors. Yet, prosperity in law couldn’t eclipse his patriotic fervor.
Gandhi’s influence drew him into the freedom struggle in 1920. He orchestrated mass movements, endured jail terms, and rose to Congress presidency. As Constituent Assembly head, he steered India’s constitutional birth. Elected President in 1950 and re-elected in 1952, he served till 1962, also holding ministerial roles in interim governments.
In the opulent Rashtrapati Bhavan, Prasad lived ascetically. He halved his salary voluntarily, minimized staff, and avoided extravagance. Post-tenure, he rejected elite treatments, choosing his humble Patna home instead. His final days at Sadaqat Ashram ended on February 28, 1963.
Awards like Bharat Ratna in 1962 honored his contributions, but his true legacy lies in moral leadership. He never accepted gifts, managed chores personally, and prioritized public service over perks. Today, as we mark his punyatithi, his story reminds us that true greatness lies in humility and duty.