New Delhi, April 11 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored Mahatma Jyotirao Phule on his birthday, recognizing him as a pioneering social reformer who devoted his life to the principles of equality, justice, and education. Celebrating the onset of his 200th birthday festivities, the Prime Minister remarked that Phule's ideas continue to illuminate the path towards societal advancement and empowerment.

In a statement on X, PM Modi expressed, “On the occasion of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule's birth anniversary, I pay tribute to a visionary who committed his life to the ideals of equality, justice, and education. He was a trailblazer in advocating for the rights of women and marginalized communities. His relentless efforts made education a vital tool for empowerment. This year, we initiate the celebrations for his 200th birth anniversary. May his insights inspire all in the quest for societal progress.”

The Prime Minister also shared a blog titled 'Mahatma Jyotirao Phule: A Beacon That Continues to Light India's Path', highlighting that Phule's focus on education, learning, and the welfare of all remains pertinent in today's world. He noted that Phule serves as a guiding beacon for many and that his life's message continues to motivate future generations.

In his blog post, PM Modi further elaborated, “Today, April 11, is a profoundly significant day for all of us. It marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, one of India's most esteemed social reformers and a guiding beacon for many. This year, the occasion is even more meaningful as it signifies the commencement of his 200th birth anniversary celebrations.”

He emphasized that Phule's life exemplified moral courage, persistent inquiry, and an unwavering commitment to societal welfare. “His legacy is not just in the institutions he established and movements he spearheaded, but also in the hope he instilled and the confidence he imbued in millions,” the Prime Minister remarked.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid homage to Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, praising him as a remarkable social reformer and advocate for education.

“Respectful homage on the birth anniversary of the great social reformer and educationist Mahatma Jyotiba Phule. Jyotiba Phule viewed education as the most potent means of social reform. His exceptional efforts for women's education and the establishment of the ‘Satyashodhak Samaj’ significantly contributed to the quest for equality and justice in society,” HM Shah conveyed on X (translated from Hindi).

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari also expressed his respects, calling Phule the architect of India's educational revolution and a passionate supporter of Dalit upliftment and women's empowerment.

He stated: “Those who dedicate their lives to equality and truth, tirelessly working for the upliftment of Dalits and the empowerment of women. The father of India's educational revolution, the great social reformer, intellectual revolutionary, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule—on his birth anniversary, I humbly pay my respects to him.”

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated that Mahatma Phule taught that true societal advancement is achievable only when every individual has access to education, respect, and equal opportunities.

“On the birth anniversary of this great social reformer and the powerful advocate for the marginalized, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, I offer my humble tribute. He taught us that society can only progress when every individual is afforded education, respect, and opportunity. His struggles ignited a new hope in the lives of millions. Let us commit to advancing his ideals and foster an equitable and enlightened society,” CM Yogi expressed.

Jyotirao Phule was a 19th-century Indian social reformer who fervently championed education for women and marginalized communities. He founded the Satyashodhak Samaj to promote equality, education, and social justice in society.