Zakir Husain

Zakir Husain was an Indian statesman, educator, and the third President of India, serving from 1967 until his death in 1969. A prominent figure in the nation's educational and political landscape, he was the first Muslim to hold the office of President of India and the first to die in office. His career was distinguished by his foundational role in establishing Jamia Millia Islamia and his tenure as its vice-chancellor, alongside significant contributions to national policy as a member of the University Grants Commission and the Planning Commission.

Early life and education

Born in Hyderabad State during the British Raj, he was the son of Fida Husain Khan, a lawyer. After his father's early death, he moved to Etawah in the United Provinces for schooling. He pursued higher education at the Mohammedan Anglo-Oriental College, which later became Aligarh Muslim University, earning a degree in Economics. His academic prowess led him to the University of Calcutta for a master's degree. Awarded a scholarship by the Nizam of Hyderabad, he then undertook doctoral studies in Economics at the Humboldt University of Berlin in Germany, where he was influenced by contemporary European educational thought.

Academic career

Upon returning to India, he became a leading force in the Indian independence movement, co-founding Jamia Millia Islamia in Aligarh as a nationalistic educational institution during the Non-cooperation movement. He served as its vice-chancellor for over two decades, guiding its relocation to New Delhi and its growth into a central university. His educational philosophy emphasized Gandhian principles of Nai Talim (basic education) and national integration. He chaired the Delhi Education Committee and served as a member of the University Grants Commission, significantly shaping post-independence Education in India. He also represented India at the UNESCO and was appointed to the Rajya Sabha.

Political career

His entry into formal politics began with his appointment as the Governor of Bihar in 1957, where he worked with Chief Ministers like Krishna Sinha. In 1962, he was elected the second Vice President of India, serving under President Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan and working with Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru, Lal Bahadur Shastri, and Indira Gandhi. In this role, he also served as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. His tenure was marked by a scholarly and conciliatory approach to parliamentary proceedings. For his distinguished service, he was honored with the Padma Vibhushan in 1954 and the Bharat Ratna in 1963.

Presidency (1967–1969)

Elected as President in 1967, he narrowly defeated Koka Subba Rao with support from the Indian National Congress. His brief term coincided with a period of significant political and economic challenges, including factionalism within the Indian National Congress, the 1967 Indian general election, and the 1967 Bihar drought. As a constitutional head of state, he maintained dignified neutrality while working with Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. His presidency was cut short by his sudden death from a heart attack in 1969, leading to V. V. Giri serving as acting president. His state funeral was held at Jama Masjid in Delhi.

Personal life and legacy

He was married to Shahjehan Begum, and the couple had two daughters. A man of deep intellectual and cultural interests, he was fluent in Urdu, English, and German, with a noted passion for gardening. His legacy is primarily that of an eminent educationist and a symbol of secular integrity. Key institutions bear his name, including the Dr. Zakir Husain Library at Jamia Millia Islamia and the Dr. Zakir Husain College at the University of Delhi. His life and work continue to be commemorated through memorial lectures and the Dr. Zakir Husain Award for community leadership.

Category:Presidents of India Category:Recipients of the Bharat Ratna Category:Indian educators