Deendayal Upadhyaya: The mind behind Jana Sangh

Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, a distinguished thinker and key architect of India's socio-political philosophy, was born on September 25, 1916, at Nagla Chandrabhan village of Mathura district in Uttar Pradesh. Affectionately known as “Deena”, his childhood was marked by personal loss. He lost his parents at a tender age and was raised at his maternal grandfather's home. Despite the hardships, his intellectual prowess stood out.

During his high school years at Sikar in Rajasthan, Upadhyaya excelled in board examinations, securing the top position. His achievement earned him a gold medal, a monthly scholarship of Rs 10, and Rs 250 for books from Maharaja Kalyan Singh of Sikar.

His academic journey took him to Pilani for intermediate studies, where he graduated with distinction. He later pursued a degree in Bachelor of Arts at Sanatan Dharma College, Kanpur, and on the advice of a friend, joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in 1937. After BA in the first division, he moved to Agra to pursue a master's degree. However, tragedy struck again when his cousin, Rama Devi, passed away, leading him to give up his MA exams.

Following a competitive examination, where he appeared in traditional attire — 'dhoti', 'kurta' and a cap — amidst western-suited candidates, Upadhyaya topped the list and earned the affectionate title “Panditji.” He later pursued BT studies at Prayagraj, while continuing RSS activities.

In 1951, as India was reshaping its political identity, Upadhyaya co-founded the Bharatiya Jana Sangh along with Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee. His commitment and ideals left a lasting impression on Mukherjee, who famously said, “Give me two Deen Dayals, and I will completely change the face of the nation”. After Mukherjee's demise in 1953, Upadhyaya assumed leadership of the party, steering it toward greater prominence and laying the foundation of what would eventually become the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

An advocate of cultural nationalism, Upadhyaya rejected the idea of multiculturalism, asserting that “national unity or integration is unattainable unless people share the same cultural ethos”. His most enduring contribution was the philosophy of 'Integral Humanism' or 'Ekatma Manavavad', a holistic framework offering an alternative to both communism and capitalism. This ideological model emphasised harmony between the individual, society, and nature.

Beyond his political endeavours, Upadhyaya was a prolific writer and journalist. He contributed significantly as an editor for publications such as Rashtra Dharma and Panchjanya and wrote the widely-read column 'Political Diary' for 'The Organiser'. His works included titles like 'Samrat Chandragupt', 'Jagatguru Shankaracharya', and 'Integral Humanism'. His guiding principle for journalism was clear: “Don't distort news.”

On the night of February 11, 1968, Upadhyaya met a sudden and untimely death under mysterious circumstances. He had boarded a late-night train from Lucknow to Patna on February 10. While he was last seen alive at Jaunpur after midnight, his body was discovered outside the Mughalsarai railway station around 2.20 am, 750 ft from the platform, with a Rs 5 note clutched in his hand. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) later concluded that he had been pushed out of the coach by robbers.

Upadhyaya's legacy continues to inspire generations. His philosophy, political vision, and dedication to nationalism and social service remain a guiding light for the nation, symbolising the ideals of a visionary leader and profound scholar.