Rajendra Prasad’s Speech, made hours before India’s Independence

By Dilip -

Rajendra Prasad, the first president of India, gave this speech on August 14, 1947, just before India achieved independence. Because his thoughts on non-violence, truth and tolerance continue to have an enduring relevance today.    At this crucial juncture in our history, when after years and years of struggle, we are finally going to hold the reins of our country’s governance in our own hands, we should remember God, the Supreme Being, who shapes the destiny of individuals and countries.

Let us pay homage to the many men and women, known and unknown, who laid down their lives, voluntarily or involuntarily, to attain the freedom of this day, those who happily climbed the gallows, and boldly embraced the bullets. Those who gave up their lives languishing in jails and on the island of Kala Pani, who without hesitation left behind their parents, their wives and children, their familial ties, and even the country and offered their life and wealth in sacrifice. This day to which we stand witness is a result of their rigour and sacrifice.

We must also offer our reverence and devotion to Mahatma Gandhi, who has been our guide for 20 years – the only ray of hope and fervour. He is the essence of our culture and the heart of our life, whose presence has kept us alive even in the midst of all the trials and tribulations of history. He dragged us out of the dark pit of despair and troubles and instilled a spirit in our hearts that allowed us to muster the courage and strength to stake claim to independence, our birthright….

https://thewire.in/politics/rajendra-prasad-india-president-speech-1947-truth-non-violence-tolerance


The music of humanity


Gandhi During Partition: A Case Study in the Nature of Satyagraha


The Compass


Love at work - Mahatma Gandhi's Last Struggle 



The Compass We Lost : Gandhi Matters:13, October 4, 2019


Bapu tujhko salaam



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