Interested in Kamarajar biography? Learn about this leader who served Tamil Nadu and held different positions from 1940 to 1969.
Kamarajar, a prominent figure in Indian history, is celebrated for his unwavering commitment to the Indian independence movement and his transformative role in Indian politics.
Born on July 15, 1903, in Tamil Nadu, Kamarajar’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a key statesman and politician is a story of resilience, dedication, and visionary leadership. His legacy continues to inspire generations, making him a revered name in the annals of Indian history.
Table of Content
Kamarajar Educational Background
Kamarajar Elections and Appointments
Kamarajar Activism and Imprisonments
Kamarajar Recognitions and Legacy
Kamarajar Biography
Kumaraswami Kamaraj (15 July 1903 – 2 October 1975), known as Kamarajar, was a key figure in India’s independence movement and a prominent politician. He served as the Chief Minister of Madras from 13 April 1954 to 2 October 1963 and as the president of the Indian National Congress from 1964 to 1967.
Kamaraj was pivotal in elevating Lal Bahadur Shastri and Indira Gandhi to Prime Minister, earning him the title of “Kingmaker” in Indian politics during the 1960s. He later founded and led the Indian National Congress (O).
Born as Kamatchi, Kamaraj dropped out of school early and had minimal formal education. He became deeply involved in the Indian independence struggle in the 1920s and was imprisoned multiple times by the British. In 1937, Kamaraj was elected to the Madras Legislative Assembly, and he was also a key figure in the Quit India Movement of 1942, resulting in his three-year imprisonment.
Post-independence, Kamaraj served as a Member of Parliament from 1952 to 1954 before becoming the Chief Minister of Madras. During his tenure, he significantly improved infrastructure and education in the state, introducing free education for children and expanding the Midday Meal Scheme. His efforts led to higher school enrollment and increased literacy, earning him the title of “Kalvi Thanthai” (Father of Education).
Known for his simplicity and integrity, Kamaraj remained a bachelor throughout his life and owned no property at his death in 1975. He was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, in 1976. His contributions to Indian politics and education left an enduring legacy.
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Kamarajar Educational Background
Kamaraj was born on 15 July 1903 in Virudhupatti, Madras Presidency, to Kumaraswami Nadar and Sivakami Ammal. His coconut merchant father named him Kamatchi after their family deity. His parents affectionately called him Raja, and the combination of both names evolved into Kamaraj. He had a younger sister named Nagammal.
At age five, Kamaraj began his education at a local elementary school. However, after the passing of his grandfather and father when he was six, his family faced hardships, and his mother and grandmother took on the responsibility of supporting the household.
At 12, Kamaraj dropped out of school and began working at a cloth shop run by his maternal uncle, Karuppaih Nadar. During this time, he also learned the martial art silambam and boxing and sang bhajans dedicated to Lord Muruga with the local community.
Kamarajar Political Career
Kamaraj’s interest in public affairs and politics began at the age of 13. While working in his uncle’s shop, he started attending panchayats and political meetings addressed by activists such as P. Varadarajulu Naidu and George Joseph. He closely followed *Swadesamitran*, a Tamil daily, and engaged in discussions about current events with his peers.
Kamaraj was drawn to Annie Besant’s Home Rule Movement and inspired by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s writings and Subramania Bharati. His growing interest in politics led him to Thiruvananthapuram, where he worked at a timber shop owned by a relative.
During his time in Kerala, he remained active in public life, participating in the Vaikom Satyagraha. This movement fought for the right of people from all castes to access public areas of the Vaikom Temple. Eventually, Kamaraj was called back to his hometown, and despite his mother’s efforts to find him a bride, he remained committed to his political path and chose not to marry.
Kamarajar Elections and Appointments
Kamaraj remains a towering figure in India’s independence movement and post-independence politics and left a significant legacy in Indian politics, particularly in Tamil Nadu. His journey from a young revolutionary to a national leader is marked by key moments that shaped regional and national political landscapes.
Early Activism (1919–29): Kamaraj joined the Indian National Congress at the age of 16, inspired by the tragic events surrounding the Rowlatt Act and the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
He met Mahatma Gandhi in 1921, where he embraced Gandhi’s views on non-violence, khadi, and the eradication of untouchability. Kamaraj was deeply involved in various protests, including the Non-cooperation movement and the Flag and Sword Satyagrahas.
Independence Struggles and First Election (1930–39): Kamaraj participated in the Salt March and was arrested for the first time in 1930. His activism led him to multiple imprisonments, including a notable sentence for sedition.
Despite being falsely implicated in various cases, Kamaraj continued to rise within the Congress ranks, eventually playing a significant role in Madras politics. His political allegiance with S. Satyamurti helped him gain influence in the Madras Congress.
Congress Presidency and Imprisonment (1940–45): Kamaraj’s leadership was evident during his presidency of the Madras Congress in the 1940s. His vocal opposition to the Second World War and the British war efforts led to his arrest.
He was imprisoned multiple times for his pro-independence stance. Even during imprisonment, Kamaraj’s political maneuvering ensured his rise within the party. His efforts helped shape the Congress’ post-independence trajectory.
Post-Independence Politics (1946–53): Kamaraj’s political influence grew after India’s independence, particularly in Madras. As a trusted aide of Satyamurti, he helped solidify Congress’ position in the state. In 1951, he became a Member of Parliament, further strengthening his hold on national politics.
Chief Minister of Madras (1954–63): Kamaraj’s tenure as Chief Minister of Madras from 1954 to 1963 is considered a transformative period for the state. His reforms in education, including expanding school infrastructure and introducing midday meals, earned him the title “Kalvi Thanthai” (Father of Education).
He also initiated major irrigation and industrial development projects, enhancing the state’s infrastructure.
National Politics and Final Years (1964–75): Kamaraj continued to influence national politics after stepping down as Chief Minister.
His Kamaraj Plan, aimed at revitalizing the Congress Party, saw several top leaders resigning from ministerial posts to focus on organizational work. Despite his significant influence, Kamaraj never aspired for the Prime Minister’s post.
Instead, he played a pivotal role in guiding India through political instability, including supporting the rise of both Lal Bahadur Shastri and Indira Gandhi as Prime Ministers.
Kamaraj’s role as the “kingmaker” in the 1960s and his later years in the Congress (O) faction after the party split marked the final phase of his political career. His leadership continued to inspire many, even after he died in 1975.
| Year | Position | Constituency | Party | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1937 | MLA | Sattur | INC | Won |
| 1946 | MLA | Sattur-Aruppukottai | INC | Won |
| 1951 | MP | Srivilliputhur | INC | Won |
| 1954 | MLA | Gudiyatham | INC | Won |
| 1957 | MLA | Sattur | INC | Won |
| 1962 | MLA | Sattur | INC | Won |
| 1967 | MLA | Virudhunagar | INC | Lost |
| 1969 | MP | Nagercoil | INC | Won |
| 1971 | MP | Nagercoil | INC(O) | Won |
Kamarajar Activism and Imprisonments
Significant sacrifices marked Kamarajar’s activism. In 1930, he participated in the Vedaranyam march, supporting Gandhi’s Salt March, which resulted in his first arrest. He spent nearly two years in Alipore Jail. His commitment to the cause led to further arrests, including a one-year sentence for sedition in 1932.
Kamarajar’s courage was evident when he was charged with conspiracy in the Madras Conspiracy Case in 1933-34. Though acquitted due to lack of evidence, his resolve remained unshaken. He continued campaigning against British rule, even facing imprisonment under the Defence of India rules in 1940 for opposing contributions to the war fund.
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Kamarajar Influence
Kamarajar’s influence extended beyond his political roles. In 1963, he proposed the ‘Kamaraj Plan’ to Prime Minister Nehru, suggesting that senior Congress leaders resign from ministerial positions to focus on organizational work.
This plan aimed to strengthen the party’s commitment to its objectives and was implemented within two months, resulting in the resignation of six Chief Ministers and six Union Ministers.
His leadership was instrumental in shaping the future of the Indian National Congress, and he played a pivotal role in selecting Prime Ministers. Despite facing political setbacks, including a defeat in Virudhunagar in 1967, Kamarajar’s reputation was revived with a landslide victory in Nagercoil in 1969.
Kamarajar Personal Life
Kamarajar’s personal life was marked by simplicity and dedication to public service. He was born into a family of modest means, which influenced his values and priorities. His commitment to his family and community remained steadfast throughout his life.
He had a younger sister named Nagammal, and despite his challenges, Kamarajar’s focus was always on uplifting those around him. His personal experiences fueled his passion for social justice and equality, which became central themes in his political career.
Kamarajar Recognitions and Legacy
Kamaraj’s leadership legacy is defined by his simplicity, integrity, and dedication to public service. His adherence to Gandhian principles, including his simple attire of Khadi and refusal to accept special privileges, set him apart from many political figures.
Known for his selfless nature, he was a man of action who believed in achieving goals through righteous means. This earned him the title of Karma Veerar, or “man of action,” and Perunthalaivar, meaning “great leader.”
Despite his lack of formal higher education, Kamaraj’s sharp intellect and understanding of human nature garnered respect, even from international figures like former U.S. Vice-President Hubert Humphrey, who hailed him as one of the greatest political leaders.
His personal life reflected his principles: Kamaraj died with minimal belongings, possessing just ₹130, a few pairs of clothes, and a few books, exemplifying his devotion to public welfare over personal gain.
In recognition of his contributions, Kamaraj was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, in 1976. His centenary was marked in 2004 with the release of special commemorative coins.
Kamaraj’s name lives on in public spaces: Madurai Kamaraj University, Kamaraj Terminal at Chennai International Airport, Kamarajar Port Limited in Ennore, and multiple roads and statues across India. His enduring influence continues to inspire and honor his legacy of simplicity, service, and leadership.
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Kamarajar Death
Kamaraj passed away on 2 October 1975 after complaining of chest pain following lunch. He succumbed to a heart attack in his sleep at the age of 72. His death marked the end of an era for Indian politics, and his body was kept for public viewing at Rajaji Hall. The following day, his body was taken in procession to Gandhi Mandapam and cremated with full state honors.
To honor his memory, memorials dedicated to Kamaraj have been established in key locations, including Chennai, Virudhunagar, and Kanyakumari. These memorials pay tribute to his contributions to the nation and his lasting impact on Indian society and politics.
Conclusion on Kamaraja Biography
Kamaraj was a towering figure in Indian politics, known for his integrity, simplicity, and dedication to public service. A man of action and principles, he lived by Gandhian ideals and remained unwavering in his commitment to the welfare of the people.
Despite lacking formal higher education, his sharp intellect and deep understanding of human nature earned him respect in India and internationally. His leadership, particularly as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, left a lasting legacy in the state’s educational and infrastructural development.
Kamaraj’s selflessness was evident in his refusal of personal privileges, such as security and special treatment, demonstrating his belief that public resources should serve the common good.
His modest lifestyle, with little material wealth, further highlighted his dedication to serving others rather than seeking personal gain. Revered as a man of action and a great leader, his contributions to Indian politics and society continue to be celebrated.
His memory is immortalized in numerous memorials, roads, and institutions bearing his name, ensuring that his legacy endures for generations to come.
