Pranab Mukherjee, a stalwart of Indian politics, served India for over five decades with unyielding dedication and sagacity. His astute political wisdom and deep sensitivity towards constitutional processes made him de facto all the most important personages in India's administration prior to being elected the 13th President of India in 2012. His life is a paradigm of perseverance, resilience, and statesmanship.
Early Life and Education
Born on 11 December, 1935, in Mirati, a small village within the Birbhum district of West Bengal, Pranab Mukherjee was the offspring of Kamada Kinkar Mukherjee, an Indian National Congress and freedom fighter member. His formative years experience with politics made him what he became.Mukherjee studied at Suri Vidyasagar College and later graduated with a Master's degree in Political Science and History, and a Law degree from the University of Calcutta. Prior to joining politics, he was a college lecturer and a journalist.
Entry into Politics and Rise in the Congress Party
Mukherjee started his political life in 1969 when he was elected to the Rajya Sabha with the patronage of then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.His rise within the Indian National Congress was quick, becoming one of the loyal lieutenants of Indira Gandhi. He held significant roles in the organisational structure and policy-making within the party over the years, especially as a member of the Congress Working Committee for nearly three decades.
Union Ministerial Roles
Pranab Mukherjee's government career was diverse and impactful. He held important ministries at different periods, including Finance, Defence, External Affairs, and Commerce. As finance minister (1982–1984), he prepared the annual budgets and received praise for enhancing India's economic discipline. In his second term as finance minister (2009–2012), he helped pilot the country out of the aftermath of the global financial crisis.
In the Defence Ministry (2004-2006), Mukherjee was active in strategic alliances and modernization. In External Affairs Minister (1995-1996 and 2006-2009), he consolidated India's international diplomatic outreach. Even in his time at the Commerce Ministry, significant reforms were initiated, especially while India consolidated its entry into world trading mechanisms in the early 1990s.
President of India (2012-2017)
Pranab Mukherjee was elected President of India in July 2012, receiving the collective support of both sides of the political divide. His presidency was marked by dignity, academic interest, and non-partisanship. He upheld the sanctity of the Indian Constitution and constantly urged young people to participate in democratic processes. He also used presidential addresses to call for tolerance, inclusiveness, and scientific temper.
Personal Life and Later Years
Mukherjee was married to Suvra Mukherjee, and the two had three children. His son, Abhijit Mukherjee, also pursued a career in politics. Post-retirement from public life, Pranab Mukherjee remained busy as a writer, writing many books and memoirs chronicling the political history of India and his own experiences.
He was hospitalised in August 2020 when he fell and later contracted COVID-19. Despite undergoing brain surgery, his health further weakened, and he passed away on August 31, 2020, at 84 years old. His death closed an era in Indian politics.
Awards and Honours
Pranab Mukherjee was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in 2019 for his contribution to public service. He was also granted several honorary degrees by the world's greatest universities and received international awards and state honors. He was also posthumously granted several honours, including being included in documentary films and biographies.
Legacy
A master negotiator, constitutional expert, and consensus builder, Mukherjee's legacy is characterized by his unshakeable commitment to democratic values and governance. He has left a statesmanship legacy behind, crossing generations of political leadership and being a guiding light through some of India's most tumultuous political transitions. His work continues to shape India's political and administrative landscape.
