PM Modi Honors Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya: Legacy of Integral Humanism and Vision for Viksit Bharat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya on his birth anniversary Thursday, describing him as a guiding inspiration for India's development journey toward 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India).

Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya (1916-1968) was a renowned political philosopher, economist, and leader of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh. He is celebrated for developing the philosophy of Integral Humanism (Ekatma Manav Darshan), which emphasizes development grounded in India's cultural traditions.

Upadhyaya's vision advocated for harmonious relationships between individuals, society, and nature, moving beyond purely material progress. He led the Jana Sangh until his unexpected and mysterious passing in 1968.

PM Modi shared his thoughts on social platform X: "On the occasion of his birth anniversary, millions of salutations to the great son of Mother India and the pioneer of Integral Humanism, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya ji. His nationalist ideas that showed the path to prosperity for the nation and the principle of Antyodaya will be of great use in building a Viksit Bharat."

In an accompanying video message, the Prime Minister noted: "Today, several people consider Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya a source of inspiration and follow his path. I believe that when one thinks, talks, or listens about Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya and his thoughts, he/she might see a freshness and new viewpoint in his thinking."

"His thoughts are still as relevant as they were at that time and will continue to remain like this. Deendayal Upadhyaya used to say that the measure of a country's progress is the person standing last in the line. In these times of Amritkaal of Independence, we should keep learning and following his path to take the country forward," PM Modi added.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also commemorated the occasion on X, referring to Upadhyay as the "proponent of Integral Humanism."

"Through the philosophy of Integral Humanism, Deendayal Upadhyaya Ji regarded the individual, society, and nation as a holistic unit, emphasising not only economic progress but also moral and cultural upliftment. Through the Jana Sangh, he provided a political alternative that places the interests of the nation above all. Deendayal Ji's principles of 'Cultural Nationalism' and 'Antyodaya' are an inspiration to every patriot," Shah stated.

Union Health Minister JP Nadda paid his respects, calling Upadhyaya a "great nationalist thinker."

On X, Nadda wrote: "The revered Deendayal ji, who set the highest ideals of personal integrity and dignity in public life, presented the great philosophy of 'Integral Humanism' for building a strong, prosperous, and capable India on the foundation of Indian culture."

"His concept of Antyodaya is of utmost importance in fulfilling the resolve to build a developed and self-reliant India. His great ideas and works on national service and public service will forever remain a source of inspiration for millions of workers," he continued.

Nadda also participated in the 'Swachhata Hi Seva 2025' cleanliness campaign to mark the occasion.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh likewise offered tributes, stating that Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya's philosophy of Integral Humanism and his ideas on Antyodaya serve as "an inspiration for making our country self-reliant, inclusive, and strong."

"His entire life is an unparalleled example of service, dedication, and patriotism, which continues to guide us all even today," Singh added.

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