By Sushil Bhati, Senior Advocate, Former President of the Bar Association, and BJP Worker, Bharatiya Janata Party, Gautam Buddh Nagar

As we commemorate the birth anniversary of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya on 25th September, we pay tribute to a towering leader, thinker, and nationalist whose vision continues to inspire and shape the Bharatiya Janata Party's guiding principles. Pandit Upadhyaya’s thoughts on "Integral Humanism" have left an indelible mark on India's socio-political landscape, promoting a holistic approach to national development.

Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya: A Visionary Leader

Born in 1916 in a modest family in Chandrabhan (now Deendayal Dham) in Uttar Pradesh, Pandit Upadhyaya rose to prominence due to his sharp intellect, unwavering dedication to national service, and an innate desire to uplift the masses. As a co-founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the precursor to the BJP, his ideology of “Ekatma Manavavad” (Integral Humanism) became the philosophical foundation for the party’s core principles.

Integral Humanism: A Revolutionary Thought

Pandit Upadhyaya's vision of Integral Humanism was rooted in the belief that while material prosperity is essential, it should not come at the cost of spiritual values. His approach rejected both capitalism and communism, advocating for a balanced development model that addressed not just the economic, but also the moral and cultural needs of society. In today’s globalized world, where materialism often overshadows human values, Pandit Upadhyaya’s philosophy serves as a guiding light for balanced and sustainable growth.

Empowering the Marginalized

Throughout his life, Pandit Upadhyaya worked towards the upliftment of the downtrodden. His emphasis on "Antyodaya," which translates to the rise of the last person in the social hierarchy, reflects his commitment to inclusive development. He believed that true progress could only be achieved when the benefits of growth reached the most vulnerable sections of society. Today, his philosophy continues to inspire many government policies aimed at empowering the poor and marginalized.

A Beacon of Nationalism

A staunch nationalist, Pandit Upadhyaya firmly believed in India’s civilizational values and its unique cultural identity. He envisioned a self-reliant India (Swadeshi) that would stand tall among the nations of the world, rooted in its rich heritage and values. His call for national unity and cultural revival resonates deeply with the vision of the BJP, which continues to uphold his ideals.

Honoring His Legacy

As we celebrate Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s Jayanti, it is essential to reflect on how his ideas continue to influence India's governance. His commitment to the nation, his belief in the innate goodness of human beings, and his focus on holistic development are timeless. The Bharatiya Janata Party remains steadfast in its efforts to implement policies that reflect his vision of a strong, self-reliant, and culturally rich India.

For us in Gautam Buddh Nagar, Pandit Upadhyaya's life serves as a source of constant inspiration. As a BJP worker, I am proud to be part of a political movement that draws its strength from his teachings. His life and legacy remind us of our responsibility to work towards the betterment of society, ensuring that no one is left behind.

On this Jayanti, let us rededicate ourselves to the principles of Integral Humanism and commit to building an India that reflects Pandit Upadhyaya’s vision—an India that is prosperous, united, and at peace with its identity.

Jai Hind!
Sushil Bhati
Senior Advocate, Former President of the Bar Association, and BJP Worker
Bharatiya Janata Party, Gautam Buddh Nagar