## **Dr. Rajendra Prasad: India's First President**

Dr. Rajendra Prasad holds a special and everlasting place in Indian history, as he was the country's **first President** and the only person to serve two full terms in the post, making him the **longest-serving President** in Indian history. His life and contributions reflect dedication, humility, scholarship, and a deep commitment to India's independence and democratic foundations. Born on December 3, 1884, in the small village of Jiradei in Bihar, Rajendra Prasad grew up in a traditional yet progressive environment. His father, Mahadev Sahay, was a Persian and Sanskrit scholar, and his mother, Kamleshwari Devi, instilled strong moral values ​​in him. From an early age, Prasad displayed a sharp mind, deep curiosity, and a disciplined lifestyle—qualities that would characterize his entire public career.Rajendra Prasad's academic aptitude was evident even at an early age. He topped the Calcutta University entrance exam and later pursued higher studies at the prestigious Presidency College. His academics demonstrated a unique combination of abilities: he excelled in humanities, science, and law. He successfully completed his law degree and began practicing as a lawyer at the Calcutta High Court before moving to the Patna High Court. His growing reputation as one of the best lawyers of his time could have afforded him a life of comfort and respect, but the political awareness spreading across India in the early 20th century soon drew him toward the cause of national independence.

Rajendra Prasad's true political journey began when he came into contact with the Indian National Congress and, most importantly, Mahatma Gandhi. Inspired by Gandhi's principles of truth, non-violence, and Satyagraha, Prasad gradually abandoned his established legal practice and wholeheartedly joined the freedom struggle. He participated in the Champaran Satyagraha (1917), a turning point in his life, where he worked closely with Gandhi to fight for the rights of oppressed indigo farmers. His strong organizational skills, empathy, and ability to mobilize people made him one of Gandhi's most trusted companions.During the freedom struggle, Rajendra Prasad played a key role in several major struggles, including the Non-Cooperation Movement, the Salt Satyagraha, and the Quit India Movement. He was imprisoned several times, but each time his resolve grew stronger. During the devastating earthquake in Bihar in 1934, he led massive relief efforts, demonstrating his humanitarian spirit. His leadership during natural disasters earned him immense respect across all communities.After India gained independence in 1947, Rajendra Prasad was appointed President of the Constituent Assembly, a highly responsible position. Under his guidance, the Assembly debated, drafted, and finalized the Constitution of India, one of the longest and most comprehensive constitutions in the world. His impartial approach, patience, and ability to resolve differences ensured that the drafting process proceeded smoothly despite divergent opinions among members. On January 26, 1950, when the Constitution came into effect, Rajendra Prasad was elected without opposition as the first President of the Republic of India.

As President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad became a symbol of unity, stability, and democratic values. Despite holding the highest constitutional office, he remained humble and down-to-earth, always respecting the limits of his position as set out in the Constitution. His relationship with Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru was one of mutual respect, although they sometimes differed on certain matters. Nevertheless, Prasad always upheld the principle that the President should act in accordance with the advice of the elected government. His presidency is often considered a role model for how a constitutional head of state should function in a parliamentary democracy.During his long tenure from 1950 to 1962, Rajendra Prasad represented India on numerous international platforms. He visited countries such as the Soviet Union, Nepal, and Indonesia, strengthening diplomatic relations during the early years of the Cold War. At home, he worked to promote education, rural development, and social harmony. He deeply believed in India's cultural heritage and wrote extensively on topics such as Indian history, ethics, and philosophy. His books—including *Autobiography*, *Autobiography*, and *India Divided*—reveal his clarity of thought, depth of mind, and his firm belief in the unity of the country.In 1962, after serving two full terms, Rajendra Prasad decided to retire from public life. He returned to Patna, where he spent his last years in peaceful meditation.

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