On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi honoured Mahatma Jyotirao Phule on his birth anniversary, recognising his lasting contribution to social reform and education, while noting the commencement of his 200th birth anniversary year.
Taking to X, the Prime Minister posted, “On the birth anniversary of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, paying tributes to a visionary social reformer who dedicated his life to the ideals of equality, justice and education. He was also a pioneer in championing the rights of women and the marginalised.”
“Through his efforts, education became a powerful instrument of empowerment. This year, we mark the start of his 200th birth anniversary celebrations. May his thoughts continue to guide everyone in the pursuit of societal progress,” the post read.
On the birth anniversary of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, paying tributes to a visionary social reformer who dedicated his life to the ideals of equality, justice and education. He was also a pioneer in championing the rights of women and the marginalised. Through his efforts,…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 11, 2026
PM Modi also referred to a blog he published on the occasion, where he reflected on Phule’s enduring legacy. He stated that the reformer’s commitment to learning, social welfare and empowerment remains relevant and continues to inspire people across generations.
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
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid homage, describing Jyotiba Phule as a major force in advancing education and social equality. He noted the importance of the organisation founded by Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, the Satyashodhak Samaj, in promoting justice and reform within society.
महान समाज सुधारक एवं शिक्षाविद् महात्मा ज्योतिबा फुले जी को उनकी जयंती पर सादर नमन।
ज्योतिबा फुले जी शिक्षा को समाज सुधार का सबसे प्रभावी माध्यम मानते थे। उन्होंने महिलाओं की शिक्षा के लिए अभूतपूर्व कार्य किए तथा ‘सत्यशोधक समाज’ की स्थापना कर समाज में समानता और न्याय की दिशा में… pic.twitter.com/peppEfWdC3— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) April 11, 2026
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari echoed similar sentiments, crediting Jyotiba Phule as a driving force behind India’s educational transformation and a strong advocate for the upliftment of marginalised communities and women.
समानता आणि सत्यासाठी देह झिजवणारे, दलित उत्थान व महिला सबलीकरणासाठी सदैव समर्पित 🇮🇳 भारताच्या शैक्षणिक क्रांतीचे जनक, श्रेष्ठ समाजसुधारक, विचारवंत क्रांतिसूर्य महात्मा ज्योतीबा फुले यांच्या जयंतीदिनी त्यांना सादर नमन.🙏🏻#महात्मा_ज्योतीबा_फुले#MahatmaJyotibaPhule pic.twitter.com/7kx9slsAqM
— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) April 11, 2026
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said Jyotiba Phule’s teachings underline the importance of equal access to education and opportunity, adding that his efforts brought meaningful change to the lives of many.
महान समाज सुधारक, शोषितों और वंचितों के प्रखर स्वर महात्मा ज्योतिबा फुले की जयंती पर विनम्र श्रद्धांजलि।
उन्होंने हमें सिखाया कि समाज तब आगे बढ़ता है, जब हर व्यक्ति को शिक्षा, सम्मान और अवसर मिले। उनके संघर्ष ने लाखों लोगों के जीवन में नई रोशनी जलाई।
आइए, उनके विचारों को आगे… pic.twitter.com/KOXokPJmIu
— Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) April 11, 2026
Jyotirao Phule: Life and Legacy
Jyotirao Phule, a 19th-century reformer, is widely known for his work in promoting education and social justice. Through initiatives such as the Satyashodhak Samaj, he sought to challenge inequality and expand opportunities for those historically excluded from mainstream society.
The occasion marks the beginning of nationwide commemorations dedicated to his bicentenary, with leaders across the country recalling his contributions and reaffirming their commitment to his ideals.
Also Read: Amit Shah To Hold Multiple Rallies In Bengal As BJP Steps Up Poll Campaign
To read more such news, download Bharat Express news apps

