
Dr. Zakir Hussain was a great educationist , freedom fighter , and politician of India. He was the first president of India Third President And first muslim president He is famous for his contribution in the field of education and his important role in the Aligarh Movement and the establishment of Jamia Millia Islamia University.
๐งพBiography of Dr. Zakir Hussain:
Birth and Early Life:
- Born: 8 February 1897, Hyderabad (now Telangana , India)
- family background: He belonged to a Pathan family ; his father’s name was Fida Hussain.
- His parents died in his childhood , after which he was brought up by his relatives.
- Primary education took place in Etawah.
- Went to Aligarh Muslim University ( AMU) for higher education .
- go to Germany for further studies university of berlin He went to the University of Pennsylvania from where he obtained a doctorate degree in economics.
Contribution in the field of education:
- by Dr. Zakir Husain Jamia Millia Islamia Played an important role in the establishment of the university.
- He considered education as a means of national reconstruction and promoted an education system linked to Indian culture.
- They National Education Plan He was a supporter of and was influenced by Gandhiji’s ‘moral education’ ideas.
Freedom struggle and public life:
- Participated in the Indian Independence Movement.
- In 1948 Vice Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia Made.
- In 1957 Members of Rajya Sabha Made.
- From 1957 to 1962 , India Member of Parliament and Deputy Chairman of Planning Commission are.
- In 1962 he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize Vice President of India Was appointed.
Presidency:
- 3rd President of India in 1967 Made.
- They first muslim president and the first President Also , who died before the completion of his term.
Death:
- 3 May 1969 He died on 23 May 1957 in Delhi , while he was still the President.
Awards and Honours:
- In 1963 he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize He was awarded the Bharat Ratna , India’s highest civilian honour .
Features of Dr. Zakir Hussain:
- He considered education as the soul of the nation.
- His life was a symbol of simplicity , morality and dedication.
He was a messenger of secularism , unity and humanity.
Birth and Early Life of Dr. Zakir Hussain
Dr. Zakir Husain was born 8 February 1897 To He was born in a respected Pathan family in Hyderabad ( present Telangana state). His father’s name was Fida Hussain was a legal advisor. His mother was a religious and cultured woman. Zakir Hussain’s childhood was spent in a disciplined and cultured environment .
Childhood Difficulties:
- when they only 13 years When he was about to die , his father passed away.
- After some time his mother also died. After the death of his parents, he was brought up by his elder brother and other relatives.
- Even during this difficult time, he remained very sharp and serious in his studies.
Beginning of education:
- He completed his early education Received from a school in Etawah ( Uttar Pradesh).
- After this he Aligarh Muslim University ( AMU) He took admission in the University of Delhi , where he emerged as a thoughtful and inspiring personality during his student life itself.
๐ฃ๏ธFeatures of student life:
- Zakir Hussain not only excelled in studies but was also skilled in debating , writing and oratory.
He started showing keen interest in the freedom struggle and social reforms.
Education of Dr. Zakir Hussain
Dr. Zakir Hussain’s educational life was very inspiring and idealistic. He not only received higher education , but also played an important role in giving a new direction to India’s education system.
Elementary education:
- His early education It happened in Etawah ( Uttar Pradesh).
- After this he Muin-ul-Islam School , Aligarh Received education from.
- He was always a sharp , disciplined and hardworking student in his studies.
Higher education:
- They Aligarh Muslim University ( AMU) He completed his graduation from.
- While studying at Aligarh, he Nationalism And Education reform movement Connected with.
- In 1920 , he supported Mahatma Gandhi’s non-cooperation movement. Left Aligarh University .
Education Abroad (Germany):
- 1923 he University of Berlin, Germany Went.
- There he Economicsโ He received his doctorate degree in.
- While living in Germany, he also did research work on Indian culture , education and language.
Contribution in the field of education:
- After his return from Germany Jamia Millia Islamia University He joined the Association of Indian Philanthropists , which he and his associates had founded in 1920 .
- They are from Jamia He became the first Vice-Chancellor and made it the centre of national education.
- He considered education not just a medium of knowledge , but instrument of nation building Agreed.
Education Considerations:
- to education social change And moral upliftment Considered a means of.
- They Gandhi’s Basic Education ( Nai Talim ) supported the principles of.
- He majored in education Swadeshi spirit , self-reliance and character building gave importance to.
Dr. Zakir Husain believed:” To run a country we first need an educated society.”
Dr. Zakir Hussain’s Contribution in The Field of Education

Dr. Zakir Hussain is known as a great reformer and inspiration of the Indian education system. He made education not just a means to obtain a degree , but a means to make education a reality. nation building , moral development , and Social upliftment Considered a means of.
Main contributions:
1. ๐ซ Establishment of Jamia Millia Islamia ( 1920):
- He along with leaders like Maulana Mahmud Hasan , Hakim Ajmal Khan and Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed Ansari Jamia Millia Islamia University established.
- this university against the British education system And Indigenous education Made to promote.
- They are here for a long time Vice- Chancellor and developed it into an ideal institution.
2. ๐ Supporting the National Education Policy:
- He said that Mahatma Gandhi ‘ New Education ‘ ( Buniyadi Education ) adopted the principle.
- He believed that education is not just bookish knowledge , but Hands , mind and heart โ all three must be developed.
- He made education Professional , practical and ethical values Advocated for creation.
3. ๐ Inclusion of Indianness in education:
- stressed on linking education with Indian culture , language and values.
- Advocated making Hindi and Urdu the medium of education along with English.
- He taught the students the lessons of Indianness , goodwill , and service.
4. ๐ข Other institutional roles:
- They Aligarh Muslim University Of Syndicate Members And Member of several commissions on education Also stayed.
- He represented India in many national and international education related organizations.
5. ๐ Inspirational Teachers and Administrators:
- He was an ideal teacher , whose thoughts and teaching style influenced thousands of students.
- He always considered teachers as the guides of the society and stressed the need to train them.
๐ฃ๏ธ Thoughts of Dr. Zakir Hussain :
” The aim of education is not merely to grant degrees but to build character.”
” True education is that which makes a person self-reliant , sensitive and responsible citizen.”
conclusion: has been a milestone in making Indian education modern , strong and ethical. He is still a source of inspiration for teachers , students and policy makers.
Dr. Zakir Husain and The Indian Freedom Struggle

Dr. Zakir Husain was not only a great educationist , but he Indian Independence Struggle He was also a true soldier of the Congress. Though he was not directly active in politics , he did not hesitate to do so. Freedom movement through academic and social contribution Empowered to.
๐๏ธRole in freedom struggle :
1. โ Non-cooperation Movement ( 1920):
- 1920 when Mahatma Gandhi Non-cooperation movement Zakir Husain started it Left studies at Aligarh Muslim University .
- This was his first big step in which he Dissent against British rule And Support for Swadeshi Movement Expressed.
2. ๐ซ Establishment of Jamia Millia Islamia:
- During the Non-Cooperation Movement, he along with other nationalist leaders founded Jamia Millia Islamia.
- to this institute Alternatives to the British education system was set up as a platform to enable students to Swadeshi , self-reliant and nationalistic education So to receive.
3. ๐ Making education a medium of movement:
- Zakir Husain realised that to liberate India not only a political revolution but also Academic and ideological revolution is also necessary.
- He made education a key element of the freedom struggle Soft Power In which students were taught social responsibility , patriotism and service spirit.
4. ๐ Strengthened India’s image abroad:
- when he was studying in Germany , he Speech in support of Indian Independence Movement He used to give information to the intellectuals there and make them aware of the situation in India.
5. ๐๏ธ Symbol of secularism and unity:
- He was a strong supporter of Hindu-Muslim unity.
- When communal tension was rising in the country , he tried to resolve the issue through education and dialogue. religious tolerance Spread the message of.
Dr. Zakir Hussain’s ideology:
” Freedom is not only political freedom , but also mental , social and cultural freedom.”
conclusion: Dr. Zakir Hussain’s contribution to the freedom struggle was not to directly participate in the movements , but he He spread the idea of freedom to the masses through education , ideas and institutional development . He was such a freedom fighter who Brought revolution through pen and principles .
Public Life of Dr. Zakir Husain

Dr. Zakir Husain was not only an educationist and freedom fighter , but he also public life He also played an important and inspiring role in the Indian Constitution. He gave a new direction to the education , politics , and social life of India. His public life has been an example of simplicity , honesty , and service to the nation.
Major events and roles in public life:
1. ๐ซ Vice- Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia :
- Played an active role in the establishment of Jamia Millia Islamia in 1920 .
- 1926 and remained in the post till 1948 .
- During this period he made it the centre of national and cultural consciousness.
2. ๐ฎ๐ณ Entry into Indian Politics:
- After independence he participated actively in politics.
- He was elected as the President of the Republic of India Invited to participate in policy making processes .
3. ๐๏ธ Rajya Sabha Member ( 1952) :
- In the first Parliament of India ( 1952) Rajya Sabha Member were nominated as.
- He presented many important ideas on the subjects of education , culture and national unity.
4. ๐ Members of the Planning Commission:
- They are from India Deputy Chairman of Planning Commission also stayed.
- Here he worked on topics related to education and human resource development.
5. ๐๏ธVice President of India ( 1962โ1967):
- 1962 he became India’s Second Vice President Made.
- While holding this position, he maintained the dignity and decorum of the Indian Parliament.
- they always Serious , thoughtful and neutral are.
6. ๐ฎ๐ณ President of India ( 1967โ1969):
- May 13, 1967 he 3rd President of India Made.
- They first muslim president of india He was famous for his simplicity and scholarship.
- They He was the first President who died before completing his term ( in 1969 ) .
๐ฃ๏ธ Highlights from his public life:
- Symbols of Secularism: He always stressed on communal harmony and national unity.
- Ethics and Integrity: His life was full of simplicity and values.
- Priority given to education: He gave priority to education even while being in politics.
- Supporter of democratic values: He was a staunch supporter of the Constitution and democracy.
Thoughts of Dr. Zakir Hussain:
” Only he who keeps alive the spirit of service , sacrifice and honesty within himself can lead the nation .”
conclusion: The public life of Dr. Zakir Husain is the story of a man who contributed to the three fields of education , culture , and politics. He set an example of morality and service . He remains a role model for Indian democracy and education system even today.
Dr. Zakir Hussain’s Presidency ( 1967โ1969)

Dr. Zakir Hussain’s journey to the post of President of India was not only an achievement of his personal life , but it Democratic and Secular Spirit of India They also had the symbol of first muslim president of india and his tenure Honesty , simplicity and wisdom It is considered an example of.
๐๏ธ Story of becoming President :
- Year 1967 In 1918, with the support of the Indian National Congress Candidate for President of India Was made.
- They On May 13, 1967, he became the third President of India. He was elected as the .
- They Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan After that he assumed the presidency.
Important facts:
Speciality | Description |
assumed the presidency | 13 May 1967 |
Tenure | 1967 โ 1969 |
first muslim president | โ ๏ธ |
The first President who died before completing his term | โ๏ธ (3 May 1969) |
๐งพ Special work and vision as President:
1. ๐๏ธ Symbol of secularism and national unity:
- He gave the message through his post that in India Equal respect to all religions and communities is received.
- His becoming the President has strengthened the Indian democracy religious tolerance got strength.
2. ๐ Emphasis on education and morality:
- He repeatedly spoke about education , morality and national service.
- He lived like a teacher even in Rashtrapati Bhavan โ simple living , high thinking .
3. ๐ฎ๐ณ Serious and dignified leadership:
- He maintained the dignity of the post of President and never showed any bias in politics.
- He followed the articles of the Constitution with utmost devotion.
๐ฏ๏ธ Death :
- 3 May 1969 Dr. Zakir Husain’s He died while holding the post of President .
- They He was the first President of India who died before completing his term.
- The whole nation mourns his demise drowned in grief and them state honor Tributes were paid with.
๐ฃ๏ธ A famous quote by Dr. Zakir Hussain on his becoming the President:
” I will perform my duties as the President of India , as an Indian Muslim , which is a special honour for me.”
conclusion:
Dr. Zakir Hussain’s becoming the President was not only a great achievement of his life , but Maturity of Indian democracy There was also an example of this. He called this term Simplicity , honesty and service spirit He fulfilled his duty and left an indelible mark in the hearts of the countrymen.
Dr. Zakir Hussain Passes Away
The death of Dr. Zakir Hussain is a tragedy for Indian politics , education and public life Deep trauma He passed away during his tenure , and he He became the first President of India who died while in office .
Date and place of death:
- Date: May 3 , 1969
- place: Rashtrapati Bhavan , New Delhi
- Age: 72 years
๐ฉบ Cause of death:
- Dr. Zakir Hussain was not well for some time.
- Suddenly on 3 May 1969 Heart Attack He died due to the fall.
National mourning:
- On his death The whole nation was plunged into grief .
- The Indian Government has State mourning was announced.
- Them state honor Was buried with.
- His funeral was held in Delhi Jamia Millia Islamia University Campus , which he considered a big dream of his life .
๐๏ธ Tribute to him:
- All political parties , educational institutions and the general public paid tribute to him.
- A special tribute meeting was organised in Parliament.
- His contributions were remembered in India and abroad too.
His legacy:
- Dr. Zakir Husain proved through his life that Honesty , education , and service spirit On the strength of this any person can attain the highest position in the country.
- They still today Inspirational source of Indian education and democracy Are.
conclusion: The death of Dr. Zakir Hussain is a tragedy for India Big loss But his thoughts , work and ideals are still alive. He was a leader who understood and fulfilled the dignity of “President” in the true sense .
Features of Dr. Zakir Hussain
Dr. Zakir Husain was a person who had a lot of hard work in his life Education , service , simplicity and morality He had a deep influence on the Father of the Nation. He was not only an able educationist and a follower of the ideas of the Father of the Nation , but he also Also strengthened Indian democracy and culture .
Key Features:
1. ๐ Education lover and ideal teacher:
- He considered education as the greatest means of life.
- Education is not just information , but character building And nation building Considered a tool of.
2. ๐งโโ๏ธ Symbol of simplicity and morality:
- His life was very simple and disciplined.
- Even after becoming President, he wore simple clothes and lived without showoff.
3. ๐ฎ๐ณ Dedicated to national service and public welfare:
- his whole life Serving the country And was dedicated to the upliftment of the society.
- He joined politics Mode of service Agreed , not the source of power.
4. ๐๏ธ Strong supporter of secularism :
- They Hindu-Muslim Unity They were symbols of.
- He taught through his life that India looks at all religions with an equal vision.
5. ๐ Balance of global outlook and Indian culture:
- Despite studying abroad, he did not abandon Indian values.
- He was a supporter of modern thinking as well as Indian traditions.
6. ๐ฃ๏ธ Influential speaker and thinker:
- He used simple language , depth and morality in his speeches.
- His words always contained a message of inspiration and education.
7. ๐ฏ ๏ธ Faith in the constitution and democracy:
- While he was President, he Dignity of the Constitution Maintained it.
- They are in every decision Justice , morality and constitution They used to follow.
His famous statement:
” Education does not come only from books , it also comes from life experience , service and self-sacrifice.”
conclusion:
The characteristics of Dr. Zakir Husain make him not only a President or an educationist , but An ideal citizen , inspiring personality and nation builder Her life is still a gift for everyone. The ideal guide Is.
References
President of India โ Rashtrapati Bhavan (Official Site)
Dr. Zakir Husain โ Former Presidents
Jamia Millia Islamia Official Website โ His contribution as the founder and vice chancellor of the university is recorded.
Jamia Millia Islamia โ History
Mujeeb, M. (1972). Dr. Zakir Husain: Life and Times. National Book Trust, India.
Noorani, A.G. (2006). The Muslims of India: A Documentary Record. Oxford University Press.
Hasan, Mushirul. (2007). From Pluralism to Separatism: Qasbas in Colonial India. Oxford University Press.