Famous Indian Leaders

Mahatma Gandhi was an Indian lawyer who utilized nonviolent resistance to lead India's independence movement from British rule. He spent time in South Africa, where he first employed nonviolent tactics in the fight for civil rights. Returning to India, he organized various groups to protest discrimination and excessive taxation. Gandhi became the leader of the Indian National Congress and championed causes such as poverty alleviation, women's rights, and religious unity. He undertook several hunger strikes and was imprisoned multiple times for his activism.

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was an Indian aerospace scientist and statesman known for his significant contributions to India's space and defense programs. He worked extensively with organizations such as DRDO and ISRO, playing a key role in developing ballistic missile and launch vehicle technology. Kalam was also instrumental in India's nuclear tests in 1998. Elected as the 11th president of India in 2002, he was widely respected as the "People's President" and received prestigious awards, including the Bharat Ratna.

Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was an Indian jurist, economist, social reformer, and political leader. He led the committee drafting the Constitution of India, served as Law and Justice minister, and inspired the Dalit Buddhist movement. Ambedkar studied economics at Columbia University and the London School of Economics, receiving doctorates in the 1920s. He also trained in law at Gray's Inn, London, and worked as an economist, professor, and lawyer. His later career focused on political activities, campaigning for Dalit rights, advocating for social freedom, and contributing to the establishment of India.

Narendra Modi is an Indian politician serving as the Prime Minister of India since 2014. He was the Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2001 to 2014 and is a Member of Parliament for Varanasi. A member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), he has been involved in right-wing Hindu nationalist politics. Modi's tenure has been marked by economic growth policies, controversial initiatives such as demonetisation and the Goods and Services Tax, and significant events like the Balakot airstrike and the Citizenship Amendment Act.

Bhagat Singh was an Indian anti-colonial revolutionary who gained prominence for his involvement in acts of protest against British colonial rule. He was a member of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association and participated in the assassination of a British police officer in retaliation for the death of an Indian nationalist leader. Singh's actions, including a symbolic bombing and a hunger strike, elevated his status as a martyr and folk hero in Northern India. He played a significant role in electrifying militant sentiments in India during the 1930s.

Subhas Chandra Bose was an Indian nationalist who defied British authority in India, becoming a hero to many Indians. He joined the nationalist movement led by Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian National Congress, eventually becoming Congress president. Differences arose with Congress leaders over his negotiable attitude to non-violence and plans for greater powers. Bose then went to Nazi Germany, where he received sympathy for India's independence, recruited the Free India Legion, and later revamped the Indian National Army with Japanese support. His legacy remains mixed due to his wartime alliances with Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan.

Indira Gandhi was India's first and only female prime minister, serving from 1966 to 1977 and again from 1980 until her assassination in 1984. She was a central figure in Indian politics as the leader of the Indian National Congress. Gandhi was known for her uncompromising political stances, centralization of power, and decisive leadership. During her tenure, she led India to victory in military conflicts, including wars with China and Pakistan. She also played a crucial role in India's nuclear program and strengthened ties with the Soviet Union.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee was an Indian politician and poet who served as Prime Minister of India for three terms, holding office from 1996 to 2004. He was a co-founder and senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party, the first non-Congress PM to complete a full term. Vajpayee was a member of the Indian Parliament for over five decades, elected ten times to the Lok Sabha and twice to the Rajya Sabha. He played a key role in various political alliances and was known for his efforts in foreign relations, economic reforms, and advocacy for good governance.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was an Indian independence activist, barrister, and senior leader of the Indian National Congress. He served as the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of India from 1947 to 1950. Known as the "Iron Man of India," Patel played a significant role in India's political integration, persuading princely states to accede to India after independence. He was instrumental in organising relief efforts for partition refugees and establishing the All India Services system. Patel's leadership and commitment to national integration are widely recognized and celebrated.

Lal Bahadur Shastri was an Indian politician and statesman who served as the Prime Minister of India from 1964 to 1966. He played key roles in the Indian Independence movement and held prominent positions in the Indian National Congress. Shastri served in various government roles, including as the Home Minister and the Railways Minister. As Prime Minister, he initiated the White Revolution and the Green Revolution to boost milk and food grain production. He led India during the Second India-Pakistan War and promoted the slogan "Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan."

Manmohan Singh is an Indian retired politician, economist, academician, and bureaucrat who served as the Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014. He is known for his pivotal role in liberalizing India's economy during a severe economic crisis in the 1990s. Singh held various key positions in the Government of India, such as Chief Economic Advisor, governor of the Reserve Bank, and head of the Planning Commission. He implemented significant legislative reforms and projects during his tenure, contributing to India's economic growth and development.

Jawaharlal Nehru was a prominent Indian anti-colonial nationalist, secular humanist, and statesman who played a vital role in shaping India's trajectory during the mid-20th century. He was a key leader in the Indian nationalist movement, serving as India's first prime minister post-independence. Nehru championed parliamentary democracy, secularism, and scientific progress, guiding India's development as a modern nation. He was a prolific author, with notable works like "Letters from a Father to His Daughter" and "The Discovery of India". Nehru's leadership and vision left a lasting impact on India's political landscape.

Bal Gangadhar Tilak was an Indian nationalist, teacher, and independence activist. He was a key figure in the Indian independence movement and one of the leaders of the Lal Bal Pal triumvirate. Tilak advocated for self-rule (Swaraj) and played a significant role in shaping Indian consciousness. He had a close alliance with other prominent Indian National Congress leaders and was known for his strong radical beliefs. Tilak's contributions earned him the title of "Lokmanya" and he was recognized as a leader accepted by the people.

Kumaraswami Kamaraj, known as Kamarajar, was an Indian independence activist and politician who served as the Chief Minister of Madras State from 1954 to 1963. He played a crucial role in Indian politics during the 1960s, being instrumental in the rise of Lal Bahadur Shastri and Indira Gandhi as Prime Ministers. Kamaraj was dedicated to improving education and infrastructure, implementing initiatives such as free education and the Midday Meal Scheme. His integrity and simplicity earned him respect both nationally and internationally, culminating in the posthumous award of the Bharat Ratna.

Rajendra Prasad was an Indian politician, lawyer, journalist, and scholar. He was a key figure in the Indian National Congress during the independence movement and a supporter of Mahatma Gandhi. Prasad served as the first President of India from 1950 to 1962, establishing a tradition of non-partisanship in the presidency. He also held the position of Minister of Food and Agriculture in the central government and played a crucial role in the preparation of the Constitution of India. Prasad was re-elected for a second term as President in 1957, the only president to serve two full terms.

Chandra Shekhar Azad was an Indian revolutionary who played a significant role in reorganizing the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) into the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) after the demise of its founder and other leaders. He was known for his leadership as the commander-in-chief of the HSRA, using the pseudonym "Balraj" on issued pamphlets. Azad was a key figure in the Indian independence movement, advocating for and participating in various acts of resistance against British colonial rule.

Morarji Ranchhodji Desai was an Indian independence activist and politician who served as the Prime Minister of India between 1977 and 1979. Throughout his political career, he held various significant positions in the government, including Chief Minister of Bombay State, Home Minister, Finance Minister, and Deputy Prime Minister. Desai was known for his peace activism and efforts to foster peaceful relations between India, Pakistan, and China. He was the first non-Congress Prime Minister of India and was honored with the highest civilian awards of both India and Pakistan.

Mangal Pandey was an Indian soldier serving as a sepoy in the 34th Bengal Native Infantry regiment of the British East India Company. He played a significant role in the events leading up to the Indian rebellion of 1857, demonstrating courage and leadership. His actions have been commemorated by the Indian government through a postage stamp issued in 1984. Pandey's professional life, marked by his loyalty, bravery, and eventual rebellion against colonial oppression, has been immortalized in various cinematic productions.

Pamulaparthi Venkata Narasimha Rao, known as P. V. Narasimha Rao, was an Indian lawyer, statesman, and politician. He served as the Prime Minister of India from 1991 to 1996, initiating liberal economic reforms with the appointment of Manmohan Singh as Finance Minister. He held key positions in the government, such as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and key ministries like Defence, Home Affairs, and External Affairs. Rao's tenure saw significant economic and political reforms, earning him recognition as one of India's best Prime Ministers.

Birsa Munda was an Indian tribal independence activist and folk hero. He led a religious millenarian movement in the late 19th century against British rule in the Bengal Presidency. He received education but dropped out due to British efforts to convert tribals to Christianity. He founded a faith called Birsait, challenging British activities. The Munda revolt was sparked by unfair land grabbing practices. Birsa Munda opposed British Christian missionaries and fought against conversion activities. His legacy is commemorated in the Indian Parliament Museum.

Lala Lajpat Rai was a prominent Indian revolutionary, politician, and author, widely recognized as Punjab Kesari. He was a key member of the Lal Bal Pal trio, alongside Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal. Rai played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement, advocating for self-rule and protesting against British colonial rule. He fearlessly led peaceful demonstrations, such as the protest march against the Simon Commission's Indian constitutional reforms, where he tragically suffered fatal head injuries from a police baton charge. Rai's legacy as a nationalist leader continues to inspire generations.

Chakravarti Rajagopalachari, popularly known as Rajaji or C.R., was an Indian statesman, writer, lawyer, and independence activist. He served as the last Governor-General of India and was the only Indian-born individual to hold the position. Rajagopalachari also held various leadership roles, including as leader of the Indian National Congress, Premier of the Madras Presidency, Governor of West Bengal, and Chief Minister of Madras state. He founded the Swatantra Party, advocated for world peace and disarmament, and played a key role in Indian politics through his involvement in significant movements and policies.

Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was an Indian politician, activist, and writer known for developing the Hindu nationalist ideology of Hindutva. He was a prominent figure in the Hindu Mahasabha and began his political career as a student, founding the secret society Abhinav Bharat Society. While studying law in the UK, he engaged with organizations advocating Indian independence. Savarkar was arrested by the British government in 1910 for his involvement with India House and was imprisoned. After his release, he continued to advocate for Hindu political unity and endorsed the idea of India as a Hindu Rashtra.

Arun Jaitley was an influential Indian politician and attorney affiliated with the Bharatiya Janata Party. He held key ministerial positions in the Government of India, including Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs. Jaitley's tenure saw significant policy reforms such as the introduction of Goods and Services Tax, demonetisation, and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. He was known for his expertise in law, having served as a Senior Advocate of the Supreme Court of India. Jaitley's contributions to public affairs were recognized with the posthumous award of the Padma Vibhushan in 2020.

Jayaprakash Narayan Srivastava, also known as JP and Lok Nayak, was an Indian independence activist, theorist, socialist, and political leader. He is renowned for leading the mid-1970s opposition against Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, advocating for her removal through a "total revolution". His impactful professional life was marked by his dedication to social service, highlighted by receiving prestigious awards such as the Bharat Ratna in 1999 and the Magsaysay award in 1965 for his contributions to public service.

Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw was a distinguished Indian Army officer with a career spanning four decades. He was the chief of the army staff during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 and the first Indian officer to achieve the rank of field marshal. Throughout his career, he held various command and planning roles, displaying exemplary leadership and strategic prowess. He was recognized for his gallantry in World War II and for his contributions during the Bangladesh-Pakistani War of 1971. Manekshaw's legacy is marked by his significant achievements and service to the nation.

Kocheril Raman Narayanan was an Indian statesman, diplomat, academic, and politician. He served as the ninth vice president of India from 1992 to 1997 and the tenth president of India from 1997 to 2002. With a background in the Indian Foreign Service, Narayanan held ambassadorial positions in key countries like the United States and China. He was known for his independence and assertiveness as president, setting precedents and expanding the role of the office. Narayanan made significant decisions during his tenure, displaying a commitment to upholding the Indian Constitution.

Dadabhai Naoroji was an Indian Independence activist, political leader, merchant, scholar, and writer. He served as President of the Indian National Congress on three occasions. Naoroji was the Diwan of Baroda before becoming a Member of Parliament in the British House of Commons, representing Finsbury Central. He was known for his book "Poverty and Un-British Rule in India," which highlighted the wealth drain from India to Britain. Naoroji's membership in the Second International and establishment of the Dadabhai Naoroji Awards reflect his significant contributions to UK-India relations.

M. Karunanidhi was a prominent Indian writer and politician, known for his extensive contributions to Tamil literature and his significant role in Tamil Nadu politics. He served as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for nearly two decades over five terms, making him the longest-serving Chief Minister of the state. Karunanidhi was a key figure in the Dravidian movement and a ten-time president of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam political party. He was also involved in the Tamil film industry as a screenwriter, and his writings encompassed a wide range of genres including screenplays, historical novels, biographies, poems, and novels. Karunanidhi's political career was marked by his advocacy for state autonomy, affirmative action for lower castes, and initiatives for economic development and cultural preservation in Tamil Nadu.

Arvind Kejriwal is an Indian politician, activist, and former bureaucrat. He has served as the Chief Minister of Delhi, representing the New Delhi constituency in the Delhi Legislative Assembly. Kejriwal received the Ramon Magsaysay Award for his anti-corruption efforts and founded the Public Cause Research Foundation. Before politics, he worked in the Indian Revenue Service and is a mechanical engineer from IIT Kharagpur. Kejriwal founded the Aam Aadmi Party in 2012 and has been re-elected multiple times as Chief Minister of Delhi.

Sushma Swaraj was an Indian lawyer and politician who served as the Minister of External Affairs of India from 2014 to 2019. A senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), she was the second woman to hold this office. Swaraj was elected seven times as a Member of Parliament and three times as a Member of the Legislative Assembly. She also served as the Chief Minister of Delhi for a short duration in 1998. Swaraj was known for her dedication and effectiveness in her roles, earning her the title of India's "best-loved politician."

Lal Krishna Advani is an influential Indian politician known for his roles in various political parties and government positions. He co-founded the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and was a key figure in the rise of Hindutva politics. Advani served as the Minister of Home Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister of India, as well as holding leadership positions in both houses of parliament. He played a significant role in the development of BJP as a major political party and was recognized with prestigious civilian honors for his contributions.

Dr. Zakir Husain Khan was an eminent Indian educationist and politician who made significant contributions to the field of education in India. He played a key role in the establishment and development of educational institutions, serving as vice-chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia and Aligarh Muslim University. He advocated for free and compulsory education in the first language through the Nai Talim policy. Husain received numerous accolades for his services to education, including the Padma Vibhushan and Bharat Ratna. He held various high-profile positions in government, culminating in his historic presidency of India.

Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was an Indian independence activist, writer, and senior leader of the Indian National Congress. He played a key role in India's education foundation, serving as the First Minister of Education post-independence. Azad was known for his poetry, journalism critical of the British Raj, and advocacy for Indian nationalism. He led the Khilafat Movement, aligned with Mahatma Gandhi, and supported non-violent civil disobedience. Azad also promoted Swadeshi products, Swaraj, Hindu-Muslim unity, secularism, and socialism, serving as Congress president and organizing key movements like the Dharasana Satyagraha.

Begum Hazrat Mahal, also known as the Begum of Awadh, played a significant role as the regent of Awadh during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Following her husband's exile and the outbreak of the rebellion, she took charge of the region and appointed her son as the ruler. Despite a short reign, she actively led the rebellion against the British East India Company. Forced to seek asylum in Nepal, she continued to be regarded as a heroine in the post-colonial history of India for her courageous and influential actions.

Nitin Gadkari is an Indian politician known for his role as the Minister of Road Transport & Highways in the Government of India, a position he has held since 2014. He has been instrumental in the development of expressways and road infrastructure in India, earning him the nickname "Expressway Man of India." Gadkari has a background in law and has previously served in various ministerial roles, showcasing his versatility and experience in different government departments. He has been recognized for his pioneering work in public-private partnerships in the road sector, contributing significantly to the growth of the Indian highway network.

Gopal Krishna Gokhale was a prominent Indian political leader and social reformer known for his contributions during the Indian independence movement. He served as a senior leader of the Indian National Congress and founded the Servants of India Society. Gokhale played a key role in advocating for Indian self-rule and social reforms through various platforms, including the Congress and legislative bodies. He led the moderate faction of the Congress party, emphasizing reform through collaboration with existing government institutions and was a significant member of the Poona Association.

Neelam Sanjiva Reddy was a prominent Indian politician who had a long and distinguished career in public service. He rose through the ranks of the Indian National Congress Party, holding key positions such as Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra State, the first Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Speaker of the Lok Sabha, and Union Minister. In 1977, he was elected as the President of India, serving until 1982. Throughout his career, he worked closely with several Prime Ministers and played a significant role in shaping India's political landscape.

Maneka Gandhi is an Indian politician, animal rights activist, and environmentalist. She has served as a member of the Lok Sabha and represented the Bharatiya Janata Party. Throughout her career, she has held ministerial positions in different governments, most notably in Narendra Modi's government. Apart from her political roles, Gandhi is known for her work in the areas of etymology, law, and animal rights. She has authored several books on these subjects, showcasing her expertise and commitment to these important issues.

Pratibha Devisingh Patil is an Indian politician and lawyer who made history as the first woman to serve as the president of India from 2007 to 2012. Prior to her presidency, she held various prominent positions, including serving as the Governor of Rajasthan from 2004 to 2007. She was also a member of the Lok Sabha from 1991 to 1996. Throughout her career, Patil has been associated with the Indian National Congress party and has been a trailblazer for women in Indian politics.

Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh was a distinguished air officer who served the Indian Air Force with great honor and leadership. He rose through the ranks, commanding squadrons during World War II and leading the Air Force during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965. Singh became the first officer in the IAF to hold the five-star rank of Marshal of the Indian Air Force, equivalent to a Field Marshal in the army. After retiring from the IAF, he continued to serve as a diplomat, politician, and advisor to the Government of India.

Shankar Dayal Sharma was an Indian lawyer and politician who served as the ninth president of India from 1992 to 1997. He was actively involved in the movement for the merger of Bhopal State with India, for which he faced imprisonment. Sharma held various leadership positions within the Indian National Congress party, served as Union Minister for Communications under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, and was elected vice president of India in 1987. As president, he dealt with multiple prime ministers and made significant decisions impacting the political landscape of the time.

Nirmala Sitharaman is an Indian economist, politician, and senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). She has held various significant positions in the Indian government, including Minister of Finance and Minister of Corporate Affairs since 2019. Prior to these roles, she served as the Defence Minister and has been a member of the Rajya Sabha representing different states. Sitharaman has been recognized internationally, being featured in prestigious lists like Forbes' World's 100 Most Powerful Women and being named the most powerful woman in India by Fortune.

Giani Zail Singh was an Indian politician from Punjab who served as the seventh president of India from 1982 to 1987 and 9th Chief Minister of Punjab. He was the first Sikh to become president. Singh was actively involved in peasant agitations and political activism, leading to his imprisonment and involvement in various government roles in Punjab. He played a key role in establishing India's first semiconductor manufacturing unit, implementing land reforms, and advocating for Sikh rights. Singh's presidency was marked by significant events including Operation Blue Star and the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

Piyush Goyal is an accomplished Indian politician and chartered accountant who has held various key positions in the government. He currently serves as the Minister of Commerce and Industry and has previously served as Minister of Textiles and Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. He has also been a Member of Parliament and Leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha. Goyal has played a significant role in the Bharatiya Janata Party, heading important committees and overseeing major campaigns. He has been recognized for his contributions to energy policy and has held multiple ministerial positions, showcasing his expertise and dedication to public service.

Madan Mohan Malaviya was an Indian scholar, educational reformer, and politician known for his contributions to the Indian independence movement. He served as president of the Indian National Congress multiple times and founded the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha. Malaviya played a significant role in promoting modern education by establishing the Banaras Hindu University in 1916, which has become one of the largest residential universities in the world. He also founded The Bharat Scouts and Guides and was involved in the publication of influential newspapers like The Leader and Hindustan Times.

Gulzarilal Nanda was an Indian politician and economist known for his expertise in labor matters. He served as the Acting Prime Minister of India twice, in 1964 and 1966, following the deaths of Jawaharlal Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri, respectively. Nanda's tenures were brief, each ending when a new prime minister was elected by the ruling Indian National Congress party. In recognition of his contributions, he was honored with the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in 1997.

Raj Shrikant Thackeray is an Indian politician known for founding the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), a regional political party. He previously served as a member of Shiv Sena before establishing MNS in 2006. Thackeray has been actively involved in Maharashtra's political landscape, advocating for regional interests and cultural issues. As the chairperson of MNS, he has played a significant role in shaping the party's agenda and strategies, often drawing attention to key socio-political issues in the state.

Chandra Shekhar, also known as Jananayak, served as the Prime Minister of India from 1990 to 1991. Leading a minority government, he faced challenges such as being unable to pass the budget, leading to downgrades by credit-rating agencies. To avoid default, he authorized the mortgaging of gold, a controversial move. His tenure saw the Indian economic crisis and the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi, which further destabilized his government. Despite this, granting permission for US military planes to refuel in Indian airports during the Gulf War improved his image with the West.

Hari Singh Nalwa was a prominent military leader who served as the commander-in-chief of the Sikh Khalsa Fauj, leading successful conquests across various regions. His strategic brilliance and leadership skills were instrumental in expanding the Sikh Empire's frontier to the Indus River and the Khyber Pass. Additionally, he held key administrative positions as governor of Kashmir, Peshawar, and Hazara. Hari Singh Nalwa's contributions also extended to economic matters, as he established a mint to streamline revenue collection for the Sikh Empire in Kashmir and Peshawar.

Yashwant Sinha is an Indian administrator and politician who held key ministerial positions in the Indian government. He served as the Minister of Finance from 1990 to 1991 and then again from 1998 to 2002, under two different Prime Ministers. Additionally, he served as the Minister of External Affairs from 2002 to 2004. Sinha was a senior leader of the BJP before leaving the party in 2018. In 2022, he was nominated as the Presidential candidate for the opposition in India.

Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed was an Indian lawyer and politician who served as the fifth president of India. He studied in Delhi and Cambridge, and practiced law in Lahore and Guwahati before joining the Indian National Congress in the 1930s. Ahmed held various ministerial positions in Assam and at the national level, including finance minister and cabinet minister under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. As president, he imposed The Emergency, supporting it publicly despite criticism. Ahmed passed away in 1977 and was succeeded by B. D. Jatti and Neelam Sanjiva Reddy.

Syama Prasad Mookerjee was an Indian politician and academician known for his opposition to the Quit India movement during India's independence struggle. He served as India's first Minister for Industry and Supply in Jawaharlal Nehru's cabinet before resigning in protest against the Liaquat-Nehru Pact. He later founded the Bharatiya Jana Sangh with the help of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, which eventually evolved into the Bharatiya Janata Party. Mookerjee was also the president of the Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha and played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of India.

Sharad Pawar is an Indian politician who has served as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra for four terms. He has also held positions in the Union Council Of Ministers as the Minister of Defence and Minister of Agriculture. Pawar is the first president of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), which he founded in 1999. He leads his faction in the Rajya Sabha and chairs the Maha Vikas Aghadi political alliance. Outside of politics, Pawar has been the President of BCCI and ICC, as well as the Mumbai Cricket Association. He was honored with the Padma Vibhushan in 2017.

Varahagiri Venkata Giri was an Indian politician and activist who served as the fourth president of India from 1969 to 1974. He also held the position of the third vice president of India prior to his presidency. Notably, he was the first president to be elected as an independent candidate. Following his term, Giri was honored with the Bharat Ratna award by the Government of India in 1975. He passed away in 1980, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service to the country.

Bidhan Chandra Roy was an accomplished Indian physician, educationist, and statesman known for his significant contributions to the field of medicine and education. Serving as the Chief Minister of West Bengal from 1950 until his passing in 1962, he played a pivotal role in establishing various institutions and cities such as Salt Lake, Kalyani, and Durgapur. Roy's impact was so profound that India celebrates National Doctors' Day on 1 July in his honor. His remarkable achievements were recognized with the prestigious Bharat Ratna award in 1961.

V. P. Singh was an Indian politician who served as the Prime Minister of India from 1989 to 1990. He began his political career with the Indian National Congress party and held various cabinet positions, including Minister of Finance and Minister of Defence. Singh later formed the Janata Dal party and became the Prime Minister with the support of the National Front and BJP. He implemented the Mandal Commission report, enacted key legislation, and faced challenges such as the Bofors scandal and Kashmiri exodus before resigning in 1990. Singh continued to be an influential political critic until his passing in 2008.

Jyoti Basu was an Indian Marxist theorist, communist activist, and politician known for his leadership in the Communist movement in India. He served as the Chief Minister of West Bengal for a record-breaking tenure from 1977 to 2000. A founding member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), he was a key figure in the party's Politburo for over four decades. Basu also held a seat in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly eleven times, making him the longest-serving chief minister in India's elected democracy. He declined the post of Prime Minister in 1996 due to ideological differences within the Communist Party.

Sumitra Mahajan, an Indian politician from the Bharatiya Janata Party, served as the Speaker of Lok Sabha from 2014 to 2019, making her the longest-serving Woman Member of Parliament. She also held various ministerial positions from 1999 to 2004, overseeing Human Resource Development, Communications and Information Technology, and Petroleum and Natural Gas. Additionally, she chaired the Standing Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment from 2004 to 2009 and the Standing Committee on Rural Development from 2009 to 2014. Mahajan's achievements include being the second woman elected as Lok Sabha Speaker and receiving the Padma Bhushan award in 2021.

Ravi Shankar Prasad is an Indian politician and lawyer affiliated with the Bharatiya Janata Party. He has been a Member of Parliament since 2000, serving in both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha. Throughout his tenure as a Union Minister, Prasad held various portfolios such as Law and Justice, Communications, and Electronics and Information Technology under different prime ministers. He is known for his efforts in repealing archaic laws, digitizing trial courts, and handling significant litigations, but also faced controversies surrounding judicial appointments and clashes with social media platforms.

Ram Prasad Bismil was an Indian poet, writer, and revolutionary known for his fight against British colonial rule. He participated in significant anti-British conspiracies such as the Mainpuri Conspiracy of 1918 and the Kakori Conspiracy of 1925. Bismil was a skilled poet in Urdu and Hindi, using pen names like Ram, Agyat, and Bismil. He was also involved with the Arya Samaj and played a key role in establishing the revolutionary group Hindustan Republican Association. Bismil was eventually executed for his revolutionary activities in 1927.

Govind Ballabh Pant was an influential Indian freedom fighter and politician known for his pivotal role in India's Independence movement. Serving as the first chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, he was a key figure alongside Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Vallabh Bhai Patel. Pant played a significant role in establishing Hindi as the official language of the Indian Union. Recognized for his contributions, he was honored with the Bharat Ratna in 1957. His legacy lives on through various hospitals, educational institutions, and foundations named in his honor.

Tantia Tope was a prominent military leader during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. He played a crucial role in organizing and leading rebel forces against British rule. Known for his strategic skills and bravery, Tope effectively coordinated attacks, captured key locations, and inspired soldiers to join the uprising. He was instrumental in several significant battles, demonstrating his leadership capabilities and commitment to the cause. Tope's tactical acumen and determination made him a respected figure among rebels and a formidable opponent for the British forces.

Bal Thackeray was an Indian politician who founded the Shiv Sena, a right-wing pro-Marathi and Hindu nationalist party in Maharashtra. He started his career as a cartoonist before forming his own political weekly, Marmik. Thackeray's political ideology was influenced by his father and focused on promoting Marathi interests and opposing non-Marathi influence in Mumbai. He had significant political influence in Mumbai, with a controversial history including incitement to violence against Muslims during the 1992-1993 riots. Thackeray was also the founder of the Marathi newspaper Saamana and faced legal issues related to religious appeals for votes.

Surya Sen, also known as Master Da, was a school teacher by profession who became a key figure in the Indian independence movement. He was influenced by nationalist ideals during his college years and went on to become the president of the Indian National Congress's Chittagong branch. Sen was known for recruiting a group of passionate revolutionaries, the Chittagong group, with whom he fought against British forces. He actively participated in the Non-co-operation movement and was arrested and imprisoned for his revolutionary activities. A brilliant organizer, Sen believed in the importance of humanism for a revolutionary.

Chittaranjan Das, also known as Deshbandhu, was an influential figure in the Indian Independence Movement. A prominent lawyer, political activist, and freedom fighter, he played a key role in the fight against British colonial rule. He was the founder-leader of the Swaraj Party in undivided Bengal. Das was not only a skilled lawyer but also a prolific writer, contributing poems, articles, and essays to various literary societies. His mentorship of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose further solidified his legacy as a political guru and a champion of Indian independence.

Ram Nath Kovind is an Indian politician and lawyer who served as the 14th President of India from 2017 to 2022. He is the first person from Uttar Pradesh to hold this position and the first from the Bharatiya Janata Party. Prior to his presidency, Kovind was the Governor of Bihar and a Member of the Rajya Sabha. He practiced law for 16 years, appearing in the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court of India before entering politics.

N. Chandrababu Naidu is an Indian politician and the 13th Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. He is the national president of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP). Naidu has had a long and influential political career, serving as a minister in the state cabinet before becoming Chief Minister in 1995. Known for his economic reforms and promotion of information technology-based growth, Naidu played a significant role in modernizing Hyderabad. He has also been involved in national politics, supporting various alliances and winning multiple terms as Chief Minister.

Muppavarapu Venkaiah Naidu is an Indian politician with a notable career spanning various ministerial positions. He served as the 13th Vice President of India from 2017 to 2022 and held crucial portfolios such as Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation, Urban Development, and Information and Broadcasting in the Modi Cabinet. Naidu also served as the National President of the Bhartiya Janta Party and as the Union Cabinet Minister for Rural Development in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. In 2024, he was honored with the Padma Vibhushan award by the Government of India.

Balaji Baji Rao, also known as Nana Saheb I, served as the 8th Peshwa of the Maratha Confederacy. During his tenure, he oversaw the transformation of the Maratha Empire into a confederacy, with individual chiefs gaining power. He expanded the Maratha territory significantly, reaching regions like Peshawar and Srirangapatna. Balaji Bajirao introduced new legislative and financial systems, collaborated with Sadashivrao Bhau, and implemented infrastructure projects across the empire. He successfully subdued major powers such as the Mughals, the Nizam, and the Bengal Sultanate, while also weakening Afghan control over Punjab and stabilizing regions like Delhi and Oudh.

Ram Manohar Lohia was a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement and a renowned socialist political leader. During the final stages of British rule in India, he played a significant role by working with the Congress Radio, which operated clandestinely from different locations in Bombay until 1942. Lohia's professional life was characterized by his unwavering dedication to the cause of independence and his advocacy for socialist principles. He was a vocal critic of imperialism and capitalism and worked tirelessly towards achieving social justice and equality for all.

V. K. Krishna Menon was an Indian academic, independence activist, politician, lawyer, and statesman. He was a key figure in the Indian independence movement and played a significant role in shaping India's foreign relations. Menon founded the India League in London and worked closely with leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Louis Mountbatten to secure India's independence. He later served as High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador to the United Nations, and Defence minister, where he was involved in military conflicts and the establishment of India's military-industrial complex.

Charan Singh was an Indian politician and freedom fighter known for his land and agricultural reform initiatives. He served as the prime minister of India, a Member of Parliament for Baghpat, and the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. A member of various political parties, including the Janata Party and Bhartiya Kranti Dal, he was dedicated to advocating for the wellbeing and rights of farmers. He played a key role in the Indian independence movement, following Mahatma Gandhi's principles of non-violent struggle against British rule. Singh was awarded the Bharat Ratna for his contributions.