Key Highlights
- Azad was the inaugural Education Minister of independent India and a prolific freedom activist.
- His unwavering advocacy for Hindu‑Muslim solidarity shaped national discourse during the struggle.
- He founded pivotal institutions such as Jamia Millia Islamia, UGC, IITs and IISc.
- Every year on 11 November, India commemorates his birthday as National Education Day.
Detailed Insights
Early Life and Education – Born in 1888 in Mecca as Muhiyudin Ahmad, he migrated to Calcutta at age two. Home‑schooled in Persian, Urdu, Arabic, history, philosophy and mathematics, he ran a library and debating society by twelve.
Journalistic Crusade – Under the pen name ‘Azad’, he launched Al‑Hilal in 1912 and Al‑Balagh in 1915, both banned by the British. His radical writings earned him exile to Bihar and multiple bans.
Role in the Freedom Movement – Opposed the 1905 Bengal partition, collaborated with revolutionaries, and joined the Indian National Congress. He supported the Non‑Cooperation and Quit India movements, becoming the youngest Congress president at 35.
Advocate for Unity – Consistently promoted Hindu‑Muslim harmony, opposed partition, and organized relief for refugees.
Educational Reforms – Co‑founded Jamia Millia Islamia (1920), championed free primary education, and established the University Grants Commission. He guided IITs, IISc, and cultural bodies like Sahitya, Sangeet Natak and Lalit Kala Academies.
Post‑Independence Ministry – Served as Education Minister (1947‑1958), insisting on central oversight for equitable standards.
Legacy – His death in 1958 was followed by the Bharat Ratna award in 1992. The Maulana Azad Education Foundation continues his mission of equitable education.