Biography of Varahagiri Venkata Giri

Varahagiri Venkata Giri ( Varahagiri Venkata Giri ) a prominent Indian politician and Fourth President His life is associated with the Indian freedom struggle , labour movements and constitutional positions. Let us look at the major aspects of his life:

🧑‍ 🎓 Early Life and Education:

• Born: 10 August 1894
• place: Berhampur , Madras Presidency (now in Ganjam district of Odisha)
• family background: His father Varahagiri Venkata Ranga Naidu was a famous nationalist leader.
• Education:
  • Early education took place in Berhampur.
  • For higher education Dublin , Ireland went and there King’s Inn College I studied law.
  • There he took part in the Irish independence movement and trade union movements.

🛕 Contribution in freedom struggle:

• On returning to India they Indian Independence Movement Joined in.
• them many times Imprisoned by the British Government It was put in.
• They Indian National Congress and later Labor movements Made a profound contribution to.

🏛️ Political and Administrative Career:

1. Labor leaders:
   • He worked in the All India Trade Union Congress ( AITUC) .
   • Played a leading role in the fight for workers’ rights.
2. Governor:
   • They Uttar Pradesh , Mysore (now Karnataka) , and Kerala Of Governor Also stayed.
3. Vice President ( 1967–1969):
   • He served as Acting President after the death of President Dr. Zakir Hussain.
4. President ( 1969–1974):
   • 24 August 1969 he 4th President of India Made.
   • They sole president are those who Independent candidates was elected as (with the support of Congress , but was not the official candidate).

 Honours and Awards:

• Bharat Ratna years from 1975 He was awarded the , India’s highest civilian honour.

🕊️ Death :

• Date: 24 June 1980
• place: Madras (now Chennai) , Tamil Nadu

 conclusion: Varahagiri Venkata Giri was a dedicated freedom fighter , an outstanding labour leader , and a constitutional functionary. His life is an inspiring example of Indian democracy and social justice.

Early Life of Varahagiri Venkata Giri

Early Life of Varahagiri Venkata Giri He was very inspiring and simple. His childhood and youth deeply shaped his personality , thinking and sense of patriotism. Let’s know in detail:

🧒 Birth and Family Background:

• Born: 10 August 1894
• place: Berhampur , Madras Presidency (now Ganjam district of Odisha In)
• Father: Varahagiri Venkata Ranga Naidu — an eminent lawyer and nationalist leader
• Giriji belonged to a distinguished Telugu Brahmin family. His family was socially and politically conscious , which influenced his way of thinking.

 Education:

1. Elementary education:
   • Received his primary schooling in Berhampur itself.
   • He was brilliant in studies since childhood and also responsible towards the society.
2. College education:
   • They Khalsa College , Madras He did his graduation from.
3. Study Abroad:
   • for higher education they Ireland went and University College Dublin I took admission in.
   • There he Law​ Studied in.
   • During their studies they Irish Independence Movement And Trade union movements were influenced by.

 Influence in Ireland:

• The ongoing movement against British rule in Ireland further strengthened the national consciousness within him.
• He there Labor Unions He joined and started working for the rights of the backward classes of the society.
• I had the same experience later after returning to India Labor movements This became the basis for his active contribution.

 Return to India:

• After completing his law studies, Giri returned to India and became active in the freedom struggle.
• He began practicing law in India , but soon Politics and social movements turned towards the .

Summary:

Varahagiri Venkata Giri’s early life was full of education , social consciousness , and the spirit of freedom. The experiences he gained while living abroad shaped him as a sensitive , just and democratic leader.

Education

Varahagiri Venkata Giri His education has been an important aspect that has deeply influenced his life and thoughts. His educational journey extended from India to Ireland , where he not only acquired academic knowledge but also developed social and political consciousness. Let us take a look at his Educational Life Let’s understand in detail:

 Elementary and Secondary Education:

• Venkata Giri’s early education took place in his birthplace It happened in Berhampur ( present-day Odisha).
• He was a brilliant student and was interested in studies as well as social issues right from the beginning.

 Higher Education – In India:

• He completed his college education Received from Khalsa College , Madras ( now Chennai).
• Here he became more aware of the ideas of Indian politics and freedom struggle.

 Education Abroad – Ireland:

• Venkata Giri for higher education Ireland went where he University College Dublin I took admission in.
• There he Law​ studied and King’s Inns , London From Barrister Received degree of_.

 Experience while studying in Ireland:

• His education was not limited to legal knowledge only.
  He studied there Irish Independence Movement And trade unions Agitation Also established a deep connection with.
• He was deeply influenced by the Irish people’s struggle against British rule.
• At the same time, his inclination workers’ rights , social justice , and Political Swaraj Moved towards.

 Effect of Education:

• His education abroad made him a Global perspective Gave.
• On returning to India, instead of practising law, he Independence struggle And Labor movement Made it my priority.

conclusion:

Varahagiri Venkata Giri’s education was not limited to merely obtaining a degree. He adopted education as a tool that enabled him to fight for social justice , freedom and democracy. His education deeply influenced his leadership and decision-making abilities.

Contribution in Freedom Struggle

Varahagiri Venkata Giri of India Independence struggle His contribution to the party has been very important and inspiring. He was one of those leaders who not only politically but also Labor movements And social justice Also strengthened the freedom struggle through.

Let us know in detail how he contributed to the freedom struggle:

🇮🇳 1. Association with freedom movement:

• Venkata Giri became actively involved in the political sciences after returning to India in the 1920s . Indian National Congress got included in.
• He was influenced by the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi Nonviolence and Satyagraha was adopted.
• They Against British colonial rule protested and many times Jail also went.

👷‍♂️ 2. Struggle through labour movements:

• He saw that the workers were being exploited under the British rule , so he Labor movements plunged into.
• They All India Trade Union Congress ( AITUC) Played an important role in.
• organise the workers and make them fight for your rights Gave inspiration to.

 This contribution is special because he did not limit the fight against British rule to the political platform only , but Also fought on economic and social fronts.

🔥 3. Non-cooperation movement and jail visit:

• They He was active in Gandhiji’s non-cooperation movement (1920) .
• He was banned for participating in speeches , movements and organizations against the British Raj. been arrested several times And was sent to jail.

🏛️ 4. Advocacy of workers’ interests:

• They railways , textile and mining industries Raised voice for the workers working in.
• His efforts increased political awareness among the working class and they started joining the freedom movement.

📢 5. Activism in South India:

• They are found in South India , especially Andhra Pradesh and Madras Province He was active in strengthening the organization of Congress.
• They Prominent leader of the trade union movement in South India became.

 conclusion:

Varahagiri Venkata Giri played a vital role in the freedom struggle Dedicated nationalist , progressive labour leader , and non-violent fighter He participated as a leader of the Communist Party of India.
His struggle was not limited to removing the British rule only , but he also Social and economic equality for independent India He also did the work of laying the foundation of.

Political and Administrative Career

Varahagiri Venkata Giri The political and administrative career of A very important and multifaceted contribution He was a true public servant who labor leader , governor , vice-president , and President Served the country as.

below their Political and administrative life A step by step description is given below:

🏛️ 1. Labour leader and MLA:

• After the freedom struggle , Giriji Labor movements was linked to politics.
• They are many Trade union organizations was the chairman of and All India Trade Union Congress ( AITUC) Played an important role in.
• In 1937 Madras Legislative Assembly and was elected to Minister of Labour Made.
• For the workers, he Working hours , wages , and social security Made improvements like.

🧑‍ ⚖️ 2. Constituent Assembly Member:

• In 1947 he was elected as the constituent Assembly He was nominated as a member of the , which framed the Constitution of India.
• Here he Labour interests and social justice Talked about.

🏞️ 3. Diplomatic and administrative responsibilities:

• After independence he was appointed by the Indian Government as a diplomat in various countries Diplomatic representatives referred to as.
• He raised the name of India on international forums.

🏢 4. Service as Governor:

Venkat Giri has done this in many states Governor Acted as:

1. Uttar Pradesh ( 1957–1960)
2. Kerala ( 1960–1965)
3. Mysore (now Karnataka) ( 1965–1967)

 He was famous as a constitutional and impartial governor. He protected the constitutional values.

🪑 5. Vice President ( 1967–1969):

• 1967 he Vice-President of India Was selected.
• While holding this position, he Chairman of Rajya Sabha Acted as and maintained parliamentary decorum.

👑 6. President ( 1969–1974):

• President in 1969 Dr. Zakir Husain After the death of acting president Made.
• Later they were a Independent candidates Contested and was elected as President.
• They are from India Fourth President Made.

 The special thing is
that they are He is the only President who was an independent ( non-party) candidate He was elected as the.

🏅 7. Awarded with Bharat Ratna:

• He was awarded the prestigious ‘Indian National Congress’ in 1975. Highest civilian award “Bharat Ratna” Was awarded with.

 conclusion:

Varahagiri Venkata Giri was a leader who The values of the lower classes , workers and the Constitution He showed lifelong commitment towards
true democratic values and public service. His political and administrative journey Is a perfect example of.

Labor leader

Varahagiri Venkata Giri In the history of India The most influential labor leaders He is considered one of the most powerful men in the world. He was not only a politician but also a great leader . philanthropic social reformer There were also those who Laborers , working class and trade unions He worked at the grassroots level for the rights of the workers. His contribution to the labour movement is deeply imprinted in Indian society and politics.

 Venkata Giri: As a labour leader

🔹 1. Beginning of association with labor movement:

• 1920s​ When he returned from abroad in 1935 , he wrote about the need for workers in India. exploitative situation Saw the.
• They believed that Freedom will be meaningful only when the weakest sections of society get justice .

🔹 2. All India Trade Union Congress ( AITUC):

• Giri ji said AITUC ( All India Trade Union Congress) Played an important role in.
• They are its chairman Also stayed.
• They Industrial Laborers organise the to make their voices heard by the government Did the work of.

🔹 3. Struggle for workers’ interests:

• For the workers, he minimum wages , limited working hours , safety , and sickness and accident insurance Worked on issues such as.
• He advocated ” Collective Bargaining ” , so that workers could talk together for their rights.

🔹 4. Labour Minister in Madras Province ( 1937):

• When Congress Government in 1937 When he became a student , he was made the director of Madras (now Tamil Nadu) Minister of Labour Was made.
• During this time he made many Landmark labor reforms Implemented:
  • 48 hour work week provision
  • Special protection laws for women and child workers
  • getting trade union recognition

🔹 5. Supporter of peaceful movement:

• Giri ji always Non-violent , dialogue-based solutions gave priority to.
• He repeatedly said that there is a difference between the worker and the industrialist Dialogue and compromise There should be , not conflict.

🔹 6. Worker education and awareness:

• He among the workers worker education , organization , and leadership development But emphasized.
• He said that unless workers know their rights , they cannot win the fight for change.

 Giriji’s legacy:

• They are still in India He is remembered as the ” President of the Workers “.
• His efforts in India Foundations of labor laws and trade unions Strengthened the.

 conclusion:

Varahagiri Venkata Giri’s contribution to the labour movement was not limited to his time only , but Labour laws and labour policies in modern India He also determined the direction of the equation.
He showed that A President can also go to the huts of laborers , and the duty of a leader is not only to run the government but also to provide justice .

Varahagiri Venkata Giri Of Governor

Varahagiri Venkata Giri Of Governor tenure as his Administrative experience , respect for the Constitution , and Political impartiality He is remembered for his work in three major states of India – Uttar Pradesh , Kerala , and Mysore (now Karnataka) – played the role of Governor.

Here is their Gubernatorial tenure A detailed description is given of:

🏛️ Venkat Giri: A constitutional governor

📍 1. Governor of Uttar Pradesh ( 1957 – 1960)

• Uttar Pradesh is the largest state of India , where administrative experience and political acumen is greatly needed.
• Giri ji said there Administration and political balance in accordance with the constitution Worked to maintain it.
• They are the bridge between the bureaucracy and the people’s representatives. The role of the bridge They used to fulfill it.

📍 2. Governor of Kerala ( 1960 – 1965)

• His tenure in Kerala was challenging because there Political instability and leftist movements The period of was going on.
• They Fair dialogue with political parties maintained and repeated Constitutional limits of the Governor adhered to.
• During this time many times in Kerala Governments were formed and fell , but Giriji never showed any bias.

📍 3. Governor of Mysore (now Karnataka) ( 1965 – 1967)

• In Mysore he took keen interest in administrative efficiency and development work.
• They education , labour welfare , and Cultural activities Promoted to.

 His highlights as Governor:

• They Fair , dignified and thoughtful governor Were considered.
• He never misused power nor encouraged political interference.
• They Bridge between Central and State Governments He used to work as.
• He has always Dignity of democracy and constitution was kept paramount.

 conclusion: Varahagiri Venkata Giri’s governor tenure was one Ideal Constitutional Officer He is remembered as the Governor of the state.
He proved that the post of Governor is not merely symbolic but is also a vital post. Protection of the constitution and political balance is an important means of maintaining.

Varahagiri Venkata Giri Vice President ( 1967–1969)

Varahagiri Venkata Giri tenure of India Vice-President As the Prime Minister ( 1967–1969) was an important and sensitive period for Indian democracy. During this period he Chairman of Rajya Sabha As a , he demonstrated his efficiency , dignity and impartiality.

🪑 Tenure as Vice-President ( 1967–1969)

 Appointment:

• Election Year: 1967
• They are from India Third Vice-President (after Dr. Radhakrishnan and Zakir Hussain).
• The main functions of the Vice-President are:
  1. To assume duties in the absence of the President.
  2. Chairman of Rajya Sabha To act as.

🏛️Role as Rajya Sabha Chairman :

• He reviewed the proceedings of the House Peaceful , dignified and fair conducted in a manner.
• He has worked with both the opposition and the government Balancing behavior Did.
• During his chairmanship, many parliamentarians Important Bills But it was discussed.

 Political context:

• It is time for India Political instability It was the period of:
  • Split in the Congress Party (Syndicate vs. Indira faction).
  • Death of President Dr. Zakir Hussain ( 1969) .
• Under these circumstances, Giriji Political balance Maintained.

 Became acting President:

• When on May 3, 1969, the President Dr. Zakir Husain died , then Venkata Giri Vice President in the name of acting president were built.
• At that time, he Leadership according to the Constitution be provided.

 During this time he resigning from the post of Vice President decided to run for president—and later 4th President of India Was selected.

 features:

 conclusion:

Vice Presidential tenure of Venkata Giri dignity of the Rajya Sabha , political balance , and limits of the constitution He is remembered for his ability to maintain his integrity.
This ability of his made him famous later on. President of India Helped in making it.

Varahagiri Venkata Giri Of India Fourth President

Varahagiri Venkata Giri Of India Fourth President and his tenure ( 1969–1974) was one of the most important periods in Indian politics. tumultuous times He is remembered as one of the The first such president who were Independent candidates He was elected as the Prime Minister and his tenure was very important from the point of view of constitution , democracy and political balance.

 Background to becoming President

 Event:

• May 3, 1969, the then President Dr. Zakir Husain passed away.
• At that time Vice President Venkata Giri acting president Took charge of.
• Soon the presidential election was announced.

 Political Conflict:

• congress party It was divided into two parts:
  • On one side was the ” Congress Syndicate ” ( old senior leaders)
  • were on the other side Prime Minister Indira Gandhi
• The Congress Syndicate Neelam Sanjiva Reddy was nominated for the presidency.
• Indira Gandhi appointed Venkat Giri ” Independent Candidate” As supported.

 Result:

• by Venkata Giri Presidential election in 1969 I won it.
• He is India’s first and till date The only independent candidate who became president.

🏛️ Presidential tenure ( 1969–1974 )

🔹 1. Constitutional role:

• Giri ji himself protector of the constitution amid political pressures Maintained neutrality .
• He showed that the President is not just a ceremonial post , but symbol of constitutional balance Is.

🔹 2. Indira Gandhi and Presidential relationship:

• Giriji supported Indira Gandhi on several occasions , especially when she Nationalisation of banks And Privy Purse Abolition Like taking big decisions.
• Though he was considered a supporter of Indira Gandhi , he never The limits of the Constitution were not violated .

🔹 3. Historical events:

1. Nationalization of Banks ( 1969) – Venkat Giri approved this proposal , which was a revolutionary change in the economic policy of the country.
2. Abolition of Privy Purse ( 1971) – He supported the law abolishing financial assistance to princely states.
3. 1971 Indo-Pak War – It was during his tenure that India fought a war with Pakistan , in which Creation of Bangladesh Happened.
4. 1971 Lok Sabha Elections – Indira Gandhi’s historic victory and ” Garibi Hatao ” slogan came at this time.

 award:

• After the end of his presidential term he Bharat Ratna in 1975 Awarded with – It is India’s highest civilian award.

 Characteristics as President

 conclusion:

Venkat Giri’s presidential tenure was a period in Indian history when Political conflict , social change and economic revolution were happening simultaneously.
During this period he Dignity of the office of President maintained and proved that the President An alert , sensitive and balanced guide It can also happen.

Honours and Awards

Varahagiri Venkata Giri He has been honoured with many awards by the Government of India and the society for his valuable contribution. Honors and Awards Most of his life was spent in protecting workers’ rights , democracy , and Constitutional Values His works were recognized through these honors. The nation formally recognized it.

 Major honours and awards

🥇 1. Bharat Ratna ( 1975)

• Bharat Ratna of India Highest Civilian Honour Is.
• Venkat Giri got this honor 1975 In his:
  • Contribution to labour movement ,
  • Political and Constitutional Life ,
  • And Impressive tenure as President provided for.

 Characteristic :
They The first and only President so far which are Independent candidates and then elected as Bharat Ratna Was honored with.

🏵️ 2. Honorary Degrees

• Many from home and abroad Major Universities made them Honorary Doctorate ( Doctor of Laws – LL.D.) Gave titles.
• this honor to them Constitution , Justice and Labour Welfare Received for his contribution in the field of.

🎓 3. Honors from educational institutions

• Several universities and educational institutions have named him in his memory:
  • Lecture Series I started it.
  • Scholarships​ Established it.
  • Labor Study Centers was named after him.

🏛️ 4. Monuments and memorials:

• In his name by the Government of India and State Governments:
  • Roads ,
  • College ,
  • government building ,
  • And offices of labour organisations have been nominated.

 conclusion: The honours bestowed upon Varahagiri Venkata Giri were not just personal recognition ; they were also a mark of his values and ideals to whom he devoted his life— Constitution , democracy , workers’ interests and social justice.

Varahagiri Venkata Giri Death

Varahagiri Venkata Giri died on 24 June 1980. He was 91 years old. His death marked the end of an era in the political and social field of India.

🕊️ death and funeral

• Date of Death: 24 June 1980
• place: India (specifically their place of residence)
• He was suffering from health problems for a long time.

Tributes and remembrances

• in different parts of the country on his death wave of grief She ran.
• The Government and people of India have given him a Great leader , labour leader and constitutional functionary remembered as.
• Several places are named in his honor event organized were made and Memorial inscription Were installed.
• will always be remembered as a nationalist and democratic leader who workers rights and social justice Dedicated his life for.

Heritage

• of Varahagiri Venkata Giri The political and social legacy is still alive today.
• He is remembered in the history of India as a leader who Not only did he take power but also fought for the poor and hardworking people.

Conclusion

Varahagiri Venkata Giri The life and work of tell us the story of a leader who From the independence of the country to the strengthening of democracy He made invaluable contributions in every era till then. He was not only a politician , but also A true supporter of workers , protector of the constitution and pioneer of social justice Were.

conclusion:

• Active role in freedom struggle By fulfilling his duty, he fought for the independence of the country.
• a great Labor leader As he worked relentlessly for the rights and welfare of the working class.
• He visited various states Governor As maintained constitutional dignity and impartiality.
• Vice-President and later President As he said in the most sensitive phase of Indian democracy Protecting the constitution and democracy of.
• He was the only President who Independent candidates and who were elected as Bharat Ratna He was also honoured with the .
• His life teaches us that leadership is not just a height of position , but Public welfare , justice and honesty is the name of.

In short:Varahagiri Venkata Giri Through his policy , hard work and constitutional integrity, he gave a strong foundation to Indian democracy. His personality and ideals are still a source of inspiration for the leaders and common people of India.

References

President of India (Rashtrapati Bhavan) – Official Website
V.V. Giri – Former Presidents

Government of India – National Archives of India

2. Books and Research Books

B. Krishna. V.V. Giri: Political Biography. New Delhi: National Book Trust, India.

S.G. Gorai. Labour Movement and V.V. Giri. New Delhi: Ashish Publishing House.

B.N. Pandey (Ed.). The Indian National Congress: An Historical Sketch.