THE IDEOLOGUE DEENDAYAL UPADHYAYA (1916–1968)

While others debated whether to follow the West or the Left, he advocated that India follow its own path

Deendayal Upadhyaya became a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh as soon as he finished his education. But, on the request of Syama Prasad Mookerjee, he was asked to move to the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS) where he became general secretary in 1952 and president in 1967. Tragically, he was killed shortly after. His life was simple, character spotless and conscience sensitive. Upadhyaya believed that the purpose of politics is to strengthen the fundamental philosophy and principles of the nation. When political stalwarts were contemplating whether the country should imitate the West or move towards communism, he said neither of them were suitable. He advocated that India should grow in keeping with its resources, population, cultural heritage and needs.