Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the unveiling of a bust of C. Rajagopalachari at Rashtrapati Bhavan, replacing that of British architect Edwin Lutyens during the ‘Rajaji Utsav’. PM Modi urged citizens to visit the event, emphasizing Rajaji’s significant contributions to the nation. In his recent radio show “Mann Ki Baat,” PM Modi expressed the country’s shift towards valuing symbols of Indian culture over those of colonialism.
Prime Minister Modi’s call for citizens to attend the ‘Rajaji Utsav’ coincided with President Murmu examining exhibits related to Rajaji after unveiling his bust. The event showcased Rajaji’s ideals of mental decolonization and the importance of embracing India’s heritage. An exhibition on Rajaji’s life and work is scheduled at Rashtrapati Bhavan from February 24 to March 1, 2026.
The unveiling of Chakravarti Rajagopalachari’s bust symbolizes a national effort to move beyond colonial legacies and recognize Indian leaders pivotal in shaping the country’s history. Rajagopalachari, also known as Rajaji, was a prominent freedom fighter and statesman who served as India’s last Governor-General. Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan emphasized ongoing transformations away from colonial influence across various sectors, driven by PM Modi’s vision of shedding the colonial mindset.
Radhakrishnan highlighted the government’s initiatives towards embracing India’s culture and heritage, including the transformation of institutions and the honoring of national heroes. These changes, such as renaming buildings and installing statues, reflect the government’s commitment to serving the nation and breaking free from colonial influences.
