On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi published a detailed blog to mark the birth anniversary of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, describing him as a lasting influence on India’s journey towards equality and social reform.
PM Modi shared the article, titled ‘Mahatma Jyotirao Phule: A Light That Still Shows India the Way’, on social media as the country begins commemorations of Phule’s 200th birth anniversary.
As we begin the 200th birth anniversary celebrations of Mahatma Phule, penned a few thoughts on how he is a guiding light for several people and how his emphasis on education, learning and welfare of all are relevant in today’s age.https://t.co/Q7cY1mB8k3
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 11, 2026
Opening the blog, the Prime Minister wrote, “Today, 11th April, is a deeply special day for all of us. It is the birth anniversary of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, one of India’s greatest social reformers and a guiding light for generations. This year, the occasion carries even greater significance, as it marks the beginning of his 200th birth anniversary celebrations.”
Reflecting on Phule’s personality and values, PM Modi stated, “Mahatma Phule was a great reformer. In addition to that, his was a life of moral courage, restless enquiry and unshakable commitment to social good.”
The Prime Minister added that Phule’s influence extends beyond his work, inspiring confidence and hope among people.
Prime Minister Modi also traced Phule’s early life. He noted his origins in Maharashtra and his determination to pursue education despite challenges.
“This is a trait that remained with him forever: whatever the challenges may be, one must work hard, acquire knowledge and mitigate those challenges instead of doing nothing about it,” he wrote.
Highlighting Phule’s intellectual curiosity, the blog notes, “From his school days, young Jyotirao was deeply curious and became a voracious reader, often reading books far beyond what children his age were expected to engage with.”
PM Modi also quoted him as saying, “The more questions we generate, the more knowledge emerges from them.”
The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of education. He said Jyotirao Phule viewed knowledge as a shared force rather than a guarded privilege.
Emphasising Phule’s pioneering work in girls’ education, the Prime Minister added, “Any improvement that comes in children through mothers is deeply valuable. Therefore, if schools are to be opened, they should first be opened for girls.”
The blog also underlined Phule’s vision of equality, quoting:
जोपर्यंत समाजातील सर्वांना समान अधिकार मिळत नाहीत, तोपर्यंत खरे स्वातंत्र्य मिळत नाही (True freedom cannot be achieved until everyone in society is granted equal rights).
PM Modi further praised the role of the Satyashodhak Samaj. He described it as a movement that advanced justice and dignity, particularly for marginalised sections of society.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the contributions of Savitribai Phule. He noted her role in continuing the reform movement and expanding educational opportunities for women.
In the concluding section, PM Modi referred to his visit to Pune in 2022. He said the bicentenary year should serve as an opportunity to renew commitment to education, equality and social harmony.
The blog ends with the message that Jyotirao Phule’s ideas remain relevant. They continue to guide the nation’s progress towards a more inclusive society.
Also Read: President Murmu, PM Modi, Leaders Offer Floral Tribute To Jyotirao Phule At Parliament Complex
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