Chakravarti Rajagopalachari, commonly known as C. Rajagopalachari or “Rajaji,” was a prominent Indian statesman, independence activist, and the first and last Indian to serve as Governor-General of independent India from 1948 to 1950. He was a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi and played a significant role in India’s freedom movement.
On December 10, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to C. Rajagopalachari on his birth anniversary, acknowledging his multifaceted contributions to India’s freedom struggle, governance, literature, and social empowerment. The Prime Minister remarked that Rajaji’s principles continue to inspire efforts toward ensuring dignity and prosperity for every Indian.
In early 2023, Rajagopalachari’s great-grandson, C.R. Kesavan, made headlines by resigning from the Indian National Congress, citing a divergence from the party’s current values. Subsequently, in April 2023, Kesavan joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), expressing admiration for Prime Minister Modi’s reform-driven development agenda.
In May 2023, the ‘Sengol,’ a historical sceptre from Tamil Nadu associated with the transfer of power during India’s independence—a ceremony in which Rajagopalachari played a pivotal role—was installed in the new Parliament building. This event sparked discussions about its historical significance and Rajaji’s involvement in the symbolic representation of India’s sovereignty.
C. Rajagopalachari’s enduring legacy as a statesman, writer, and advocate for social reforms continues to influence India’s political and cultural landscape. His commitment to democratic principles and social empowerment remains a guiding force for contemporary Indian society.
