Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid heartfelt tributes to Acharya Vinoba Bhave on his birth anniversary, calling him a ‘revered spiritual leader, freedom fighter, and social reformer’ whose thoughts continue to inspire India’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India).
Born on 11 September 1895, Vinayak Narahar Bhave—popularly known as Acharya Vinoba Bhave—was a staunch advocate of non-violence and social equality.
He is most remembered for leading the historic Bhoodan Movement, a voluntary land redistribution initiative aimed at promoting justice and equality among India’s landless.
Taking to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi said, “Paying homage to Acharya Vinoba Bhave on his birth anniversary. He is remembered as one of India’s most revered spiritual leaders, freedom fighters and social reformers. His life was devoted to popularising Gandhian ideals and empowering the marginalised. His thoughts inspire us greatly in the pursuit of building a Viksit Bharat.”
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also paid tribute, saying Bhave’s ideals of compassion, non-violence and service ‘will forever continue to inspire nation-building’.
The Congress Party joined in remembrance, highlighting Bhave’s commitment to land reforms and collective harmony as ‘a timeless inspiration’.
Widely regarded as Mahatma Gandhi’s spiritual successor, Bhave translated the Bhagavad Gita into Marathi under the title Geetai, making its teachings more accessible to the common people.
People often referred to him as the ‘National Teacher of India’ for his deep philosophical insights and educational efforts.
Bhave began his association with Gandhi in 1916 after a newspaper report on Gandhi’s speech at Banaras Hindu University inspired him.
He burned his school and college certificates and later joined Gandhi at the Kochrab Ashram in Ahmedabad. That meeting proved life-changing.
At the Sabarmati Ashram, Bhave became actively involved in Gandhi’s constructive programmes, including Khadi promotion, village industries, sanitation, and Nai Talim (new education). He dedicated his life to uplifting rural communities through spiritual and social service.
Furthermore, his Bhoodan Movement, launched in 1951, became a milestone in India’s journey towards land equity and rural empowerment.
Landless peasants received thousands of acres of land after he made a moral appeal.
Moreover, Acharya Vinoba Bhave’s commitment to non-violence, equality, and spiritual service remains a cornerstone of India’s social fabric.
As India moves forward with its vision for a Viksit Bharat, Bhave’s life and ideals continue to serve as a beacon of ethical leadership and nation-building.
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