24 Feb 2026·Source: The Indian Express

3 min

Polity & GovernancePolity & GovernanceNEWS

President Murmu highlights Rajaji's mental decolonization example at Rashtrapati Bhavan

Q: If a Mains question asks, 'Critically examine the relevance of Rajaji's ideals in contemporary Indian politics,' what points could I include?

You could structure your answer around these points: * Ethical Governance: Rajaji's emphasis on integrity and simple living contrasts with current issues of corruption and criminalization of politics. * Social Reform: His advocacy for social justice and equality remains relevant in addressing caste-based discrimination and economic disparities. * Pragmatism: His willingness to take unpopular decisions in the national interest offers a lesson in leadership. * Criticisms: Acknowledge criticisms, such as his perceived elitism or controversial policy decisions during his time as Chief Minister. Key points: Ethical Governance: Rajaji's emphasis on integrity and simple living contrasts with current issues of corruption and criminalization of politics.. Social Reform: His advocacy for social justice and equality remains relevant in addressing caste-based discrimination and economic disparities.. Pragmatism: His willingness to take unpopular decisions in the national interest offers a lesson in leadership.. Criticisms: Acknowledge criticisms, such as his perceived elitism or controversial policy decisions during his time as Chief Minister.

President emphasizes Rajaji's role in mental decolonization during Rashtrapati Bhavan event.

President Droupadi Murmu unveiled a bust of C. Rajagopalachari (Rajaji), the first Indian Governor-General, at Rashtrapati Bhavan. She emphasized that Rajaji exemplified mental decolonization through his life and work. The event served to highlight Rajaji's significant contributions to Indian politics and governance. President Murmu also drew attention to Rajaji's simple lifestyle and high-minded principles, underscoring his lasting impact on the nation.

Key Facts

President Murmu unveiled the bust of C. Rajagopalachari at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Rajaji was the first Indian Governor-General.

President Murmu highlighted Rajaji's simple life and high thinking.

Rajaji set an example of mental decolonization.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper I (Indian History): Rajaji's role in the independence movement and post-independence India.

GS Paper II (Polity & Governance): Rajaji's contributions to Indian governance and his views on decentralization.

GS Paper IV (Ethics): Rajaji's emphasis on ethical governance and his commitment to social reform.

In Simple Words

Mental decolonization means freeing our minds from the ideas and beliefs that were imposed on us during colonial rule. It's about recognizing and valuing our own culture, traditions, and ways of thinking. It encourages us to question the norms and values that were introduced by colonizers.

India Angle

In India, mental decolonization involves appreciating our rich heritage, languages, and philosophies. It means promoting Indian arts, literature, and sciences, and challenging the dominance of Western perspectives in education and media.

For Instance

Think of it like preferring to wear traditional Indian clothes for festivals instead of always choosing Western outfits. It's about consciously choosing what reflects your identity and values.

By embracing mental decolonization, we can build a more confident and self-reliant society that values its own unique identity. It helps us to create a future that is rooted in our own culture and traditions.

Free your mind, reclaim your identity.

President Droupadi Murmu unveiled the bust of C. Rajagopalachari (Rajaji), the first Indian Governor-General, at Rashtrapati Bhavan. She stated that Rajaji set an example of mental decolonization. The event highlighted Rajaji's contributions to Indian politics and governance. The President spoke about Rajaji's simple life and high thinking.

Expert Analysis

The unveiling of C. Rajagopalachari's bust at Rashtrapati Bhavan serves as a reminder of his contributions to Indian governance and his advocacy for mental decolonization. This concept, while not explicitly defined in legal or constitutional terms, is crucial to understanding Rajaji's philosophy and its relevance today.

Mental decolonization refers to the process of freeing oneself from the internalized beliefs, values, and perspectives imposed by colonial powers. It involves critically examining and rejecting the notion that Western culture and ideas are inherently superior. Rajaji, through his writings, speeches, and actions, consistently challenged the unquestioning acceptance of Western norms and advocated for the revival and promotion of Indian culture and values. His emphasis on simple living, ethical governance, and social reform reflected his commitment to this principle.

Rajaji's role as the first Indian Governor-General after Independence in 1947 placed him in a unique position to influence the direction of the newly formed nation. While the position itself was largely ceremonial, Rajaji used his influence to promote Indian languages, culture, and traditions. He also advocated for a more decentralized form of governance, emphasizing the importance of local self-government and community participation. His efforts to promote these ideals can be seen as a practical application of his belief in mental decolonization.

Understanding Rajaji's life and work requires an appreciation of the broader context of the Indian independence movement and the challenges of nation-building in the post-colonial era. The movement was not just about political freedom but also about cultural and economic self-reliance. Leaders like Rajaji recognized that true independence required a transformation of the mindset and a rejection of the colonial mentality. For UPSC aspirants, understanding Rajaji's contributions and the concept of mental decolonization is crucial for both Prelims and Mains, particularly in the context of Indian history, polity, and ethics.

Visual Insights

Mental Decolonization in India: Key Events

Timeline of key events related to mental decolonization in India, highlighting the historical context and recent developments.

India's journey towards mental decolonization began after independence in 1947, with efforts to reclaim its cultural identity and challenge colonial legacies.

1947India's Independence
2022NEP emphasizes Indian knowledge systems
2023'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' program launched
2024Universities begin decolonizing curricula
2025Increased focus on promoting indigenous languages
2026President Murmu unveils Rajaji's bust at Rashtrapati Bhavan

More Information

Background

C. Rajagopalachari, popularly known as Rajaji, was a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement and post-independence India. He served as the last Governor-General of India (1948-1950), the first Indian to hold the post. His advocacy for social reform and his emphasis on ethical governance made him a respected leader. Rajaji's political career spanned several decades, during which he held various important positions, including Chief Minister of Madras Presidency (1937-1939) and Minister in the Union Cabinet. He was a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi and played a key role in the Indian National Congress. However, he later parted ways with the Congress and founded the Swatantra Party, advocating for free market principles and limited government intervention. The concept of mental decolonization, which President Murmu highlighted, is rooted in the idea that true independence requires not only political freedom but also liberation from the psychological and cultural dominance of colonial powers. This involves challenging the internalized beliefs and values that perpetuate a sense of inferiority and dependence on the West.

Latest Developments

In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on decolonizing various aspects of Indian society, including education, culture, and governance. The National Education Policy 2020, for example, emphasizes the importance of promoting Indian languages, knowledge systems, and cultural values.

Various initiatives have been launched to promote Indian art, literature, and music, both domestically and internationally. These efforts aim to counter the dominance of Western cultural products and to celebrate the rich diversity of Indian heritage. The government has also been encouraging the use of Indian languages in official communication and administration.

Furthermore, there is a growing awareness of the need to address the historical injustices and inequalities that resulted from colonialism. This includes efforts to promote social inclusion, economic empowerment, and political representation for marginalized communities. The ongoing debates about historical narratives and the representation of colonial history reflect a broader effort to grapple with the legacy of colonialism and to build a more just and equitable society.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What's the UPSC relevance of knowing that Rajaji's bust was unveiled at Rashtrapati Bhavan?

While the specific event itself is unlikely to be directly tested, it highlights the broader theme of 'mental decolonization,' which is relevant to understanding India's post-independence journey and cultural identity. Questions related to the freedom movement, prominent personalities, and the evolution of Indian society can be asked. Focus on Rajaji's contributions and the concept of decolonization.

Exam Tip

When studying freedom fighters, focus not just on their role in the independence movement, but also on their post-independence contributions and ideologies. UPSC often frames questions that require you to connect historical events with contemporary issues.

2. What exactly does 'mental decolonization' mean in the context of Rajaji's example?

Mental decolonization refers to consciously rejecting the imposed values, beliefs, and perspectives of a colonizing power and embracing indigenous knowledge systems, cultural values, and ways of thinking. In Rajaji's case, it means prioritizing Indian principles and simple living, even after holding high office, instead of blindly imitating Western lifestyles or governance models.

3. How does President Murmu highlighting Rajaji's 'simple life and high thinking' relate to current governance debates?

It connects to the ongoing discourse on ethical governance, austerity in public life, and the importance of leaders embodying the values they preach. It subtly critiques corruption and ostentatious displays of wealth by public officials, reminding them of the need for integrity and service.

4. Is 'mental decolonization' just about rejecting Western ideas, or is there more to it?

It's not just about rejecting Western ideas. It's about critically evaluating all ideas, whether Western or indigenous, and adopting those that best serve the interests of the Indian people and align with its values. It's about independent thinking and avoiding intellectual dependence on any external source.

5. If a Mains question asks, 'Critically examine the relevance of Rajaji's ideals in contemporary Indian politics,' what points could I include?

You could structure your answer around these points: * Ethical Governance: Rajaji's emphasis on integrity and simple living contrasts with current issues of corruption and criminalization of politics. * Social Reform: His advocacy for social justice and equality remains relevant in addressing caste-based discrimination and economic disparities. * Pragmatism: His willingness to take unpopular decisions in the national interest offers a lesson in leadership. * Criticisms: Acknowledge criticisms, such as his perceived elitism or controversial policy decisions during his time as Chief Minister.

•Ethical Governance: Rajaji's emphasis on integrity and simple living contrasts with current issues of corruption and criminalization of politics.
•Social Reform: His advocacy for social justice and equality remains relevant in addressing caste-based discrimination and economic disparities.
•Pragmatism: His willingness to take unpopular decisions in the national interest offers a lesson in leadership.
•Criticisms: Acknowledge criticisms, such as his perceived elitism or controversial policy decisions during his time as Chief Minister.

6. What kind of questions could an interviewer ask about Rajaji and mental decolonization in the personality test?

An interviewer might ask questions designed to gauge your understanding of decolonization beyond the political sphere. Examples: * 'Do you think Indian education system is truly decolonized? What changes would you suggest?' * 'Rajaji was known for his simple lifestyle. Is that a practical model for leaders today, or is it outdated?' * 'Some argue that focusing on decolonization distracts from more pressing economic issues. What's your view?'

•Do you think Indian education system is truly decolonized? What changes would you suggest?
•Rajaji was known for his simple lifestyle. Is that a practical model for leaders today, or is it outdated?
•Some argue that focusing on decolonization distracts from more pressing economic issues. What's your view?

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Which of the following statements best describes the concept of 'mental decolonization' as highlighted by President Murmu?

A.The process of physically removing colonial structures and symbols from a country.
B.The act of rejecting all forms of Western influence in favor of traditional practices.
C.The critical examination and rejection of internalized beliefs of colonial superiority.
D.The establishment of new political systems that exclude any foreign participation.

Show Answer

Answer: C

Mental decolonization involves critically examining and rejecting the internalized beliefs, values, and perspectives imposed by colonial powers. It's about freeing oneself from the notion that Western culture and ideas are inherently superior. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because they represent more superficial or extreme interpretations of decolonization.

2. C. Rajagopalachari served as the first Indian Governor-General of India. During his tenure, which of the following was NOT a key focus of his efforts?

A.Promoting Indian languages and culture.
B.Advocating for decentralized governance.
C.Implementing large-scale industrialization projects.
D.Emphasizing ethical governance and simple living.

Show Answer

Answer: C

While Rajaji focused on promoting Indian languages, culture, decentralized governance, and ethical living, he was not directly involved in implementing large-scale industrialization projects. That was more aligned with the policies of Prime Minister Nehru. Therefore, option C is the correct answer.

3. Consider the following statements regarding the Swatantra Party founded by C. Rajagopalachari: I. It advocated for free market principles and limited government intervention. II. It was formed as a faction within the Indian National Congress to promote socialist policies. III. It aimed to counter the dominance of Western cultural products and promote traditional Indian values. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.I only
B.II only
C.I and III only
D.I, II and III

Show Answer

Answer: A

Statement I is correct: The Swatantra Party advocated for free market principles and limited government intervention. Statement II is incorrect: It was formed after Rajaji left the Congress, not as a faction within it. Statement III is incorrect: While promoting Indian values was important, the party's primary focus was economic liberalism, not cultural issues.