Unveiling of C Rajagopalachari's Statue at Rashtrapati Bhavan Today
Synopsis
Today marks a significant event as Prime Minister Modi unveils the statue of C Rajagopalachari at Rashtrapati Bhavan, honoring India's first Governor General. This ceremony is part of the Rajaji Utsav, reflecting India's shift towards celebrating its own cultural icons.
Key Takeaways
Rajagopalachari was the first Indian Governor General of Independent India.
The statue is being unveiled as part of the Rajaji Utsav at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The event signifies a shift towards honoring Indian cultural symbols.
An exhibition on Rajagopalachari will run from February 24 to March 1.
PM Modi emphasized the importance of recognizing national heroes.
New Delhi, Feb 23 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has revealed that India will commemorate ‘Rajaji Utsav’ at Rashtrapati Bhavan today, featuring the unveiling of a statue dedicated to the first Indian Governor General of Independent India, C. Rajagopalachari, located in the Central Courtyard of the presidential estate.
During the 131st episode of his monthly radio program ‘Mann Ki Baat’, the Prime Minister reflected on his call for the ‘Panch-Pran’ during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav festivities.
“At the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, I spoke of the ‘Panch-Pran’ from the Red Fort. One of these is liberation from the mindset of servitude. Today, our nation is moving past the remnants of colonialism and embracing symbols that resonate with our rich culture. Rashtrapati Bhavan is taking a significant stride in this direction,” he noted.
“He was the initial Indian Governor General post-Independence. He perceived power not as a privilege but as a duty. His demeanor, self-discipline, and independent thought in public affairs continue to motivate us,” the Prime Minister emphasized, underscoring Rajagopalachari’s impact on public service.
PM Modi expressed sorrow over the lingering presence of colonial-era symbols even after Independence, highlighting that statues of British officials remained within Rashtrapati Bhavan for many years, while icons of the freedom struggle and national leadership were often overlooked.
“Regrettably, even post-Independence, British administrator statues were permitted to stay in Rashtrapati Bhavan, while the nation's revered figures were denied the same honor,” he remarked.
Specifically addressing the statue of British architect Edwin Lutyens, the Prime Minister asserted, “The statue of British architect Edwin Lutyens will now make way for a statue of Rajaji.”
Furthermore, PM Modi announced that an exhibition honoring C. Rajagopalachari will be organized in conjunction with the Rajaji Utsav celebrations.
This exhibition will be accessible to the public from February 24 to March 1.
He encouraged citizens to visit the exhibition whenever possible to discover more about Rajagopalachari’s remarkable life and enduring legacy.
Point of View
The unveiling of C. Rajagopalachari's statue at Rashtrapati Bhavan is a pivotal moment. It symbolizes a shift away from colonial legacies towards honoring national heroes who shaped the country's independence. This event serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing our own cultural icons.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rajaji Utsav?
Rajaji Utsav is a celebration commemorating C. Rajagopalachari, India's first Governor General post-Independence, highlighting his contributions to the nation.
Where will the statue of C. Rajagopalachari be unveiled?
The statue will be unveiled at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, specifically in the Central Courtyard.
When can visitors see the exhibition dedicated to C. Rajagopalachari?
The exhibition will be open from February 24 to March 1 for the public to explore his life and legacy.
Who was C. Rajagopalachari?
C. Rajagopalachari was the first Indian Governor General of Independent India and is celebrated for his contributions to public life and the freedom movement.
Why is the unveiling of the statue significant?
It represents a move towards recognizing Indian cultural icons and moving away from colonial symbols, fostering a sense of national pride.
