Abul Kalam Azad (11 November 1888 – 22 February 1958) was an Indian independence activist, Islamic theologian, writer and a senior leader of the Indian National Congress. Following India's independence, he became the First Minister of Education in the Indian government.
Early life
Azad was born on 11 November 1888 in Mecca, then a part of the Ottoman Empire, now a part of Saudi Arabia. His real name was Sayyid Ghulam Muhiyuddin Ahmed bin Khairuddin Al Hussaini, but he eventually became known as Maulana Azad. Azad's father was a Muslim scholar of Afghan ancestry, who lived in Delhi with his maternal grandfather, as his father had died at a very young age. During the Indian Rebellion of 1857, he left India and settled in Mecca.
Azad's mother, Sheikha Alia bint Mohammad, was the daughter of a rich Arabian Sheikh. She was a well-educated woman and played a major role in Azad's early education. Azad began his education at home, studying Arabic, Persian, Urdu, and Islamic theology. He also learned English on his own, without his father's knowledge.
Influences
Azad was influenced by a number of different people and movements during his early life. He was influenced by his father's scholarship and his mother's piety. He was also influenced by the work of Indian reformers such as Sir Syed Ahmed Khan and Jamal al-Din al-Afghani. These reformers argued that Muslims should modernize and adapt to the modern world, while still maintaining their Islamic faith.
Azad was also influenced by the Khilafat Movement, which was a pan-Islamic movement that arose in the early 20th century in response to the collapse of the Ottoman Empire. The Khilafat Movement sought to restore the caliphate, the religious and political leadership of the Muslim world. Azad was a leading figure in the Khilafat Movement and he used his platform to speak out against British rule in India.
Political career
Azad joined the Indian National Congress in 1912 and quickly rose through the ranks of the party. He was elected president of the Congress in 1923 and 1940. Azad was a strong advocate for Hindu-Muslim unity and he worked tirelessly to prevent the partition of India.
After India's independence in 1947, Azad became the first Minister of Education in the Indian government. He served in this position until his death in 1958. As Minister of Education, Azad worked to reform the Indian education system and to make education more accessible to all Indians. He also played a leading role in the establishment of the Jamia Millia Islamia, a Muslim university in Delhi.
Literary works
Azad was a prolific writer and he wrote on a variety of subjects, including religion, philosophy, history, and politics. His most famous works include India Wins Freedom, Ghubar-e-Khatir, Tazkirah, and Tarjumanul Quran.
Legacy
Azad is considered one of the most important figures in Indian history. He was a leading light in the Indian independence movement and he played a major role in shaping the modern Indian nation. He was also a respected scholar and a gifted writer. Azad's legacy continues to inspire people around the world.
Awards and honors
Azad was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor, in 1992. He was also awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian honor, in 1955.
Death
Azad died on 22 February 1958 in Delhi. He was 69 years old. His death was mourned by people all over India. He is buried in the Jamia Millia Islamia campus in Delhi.