Antyodaya Diwas 2025, Date, Theme & History

Antyodaya Diwas 2025

Antyodaya Diwas is an annual observance in India that marks the birth anniversary of the esteemed Indian leader, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya. Antyodaya Diwas is observed annually in India on September 25 to commemorate his birth anniversary.

Who was Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya?

Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya was an eminent Indian leader, co-founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS), and a prominent thinker associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). This day serves as a tribute to his life and lasting legacy, honoring one of India’s most influential political figures. The details of his early life, achievements, and key ideas is presented in the table below:

CategoryDetails
BirthBorn on September 25, 1916, in the village of Nagla Chandrabhan, Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh.
Early LifeLost his parents at a young age and was raised by his maternal uncle. Excelled academically and received his B.A. from Sanatan Dharma College, Kanpur in 1937.
Political InvolvementJoined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in 1937 and rose to prominence. Co-founded the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS) in 1951 and served as its General Secretary (1951–1968).
AssassinationKilled on February 11, 1968, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, at the age of 51.
LegacyProlific writer and thinker on politics, economics, and religion. Famous work: “Integral Humanism”, outlining his philosophy of a society based on truth, justice, and non-violence.
Key ContributionsCo-founder of BJS, developed the philosophy of Antyodaya (upliftment of the last person), wrote extensively, and his work on Integral Humanism influenced multiple fields.
Ideas and Beliefs – Antyodaya– Advocated that the poorest and most marginalized should be prioritized in development programs, influencing BJP’s social welfare focus.

Integral Humanism– Believed in a just and equitable society grounded in truth, justice, and non-violence, applicable to all irrespective of religion, caste, or social status.

Swadeshi– Promoted the use of Indian-made goods for economic independence and national development.

Dharma Rajya– Advocated for a state based on dharma, encompassing religion, morality, and social order.

History of Antyodaya Diwas

Antyodaya Diwas is celebrated annually in India on September 25 to mark the birth anniversary of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya. Upadhyaya was a prominent Indian leader, thinker, and economist. He was a co-founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS), the predecessor of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

  • Antyodaya Diwas is a day to reaffirm the commitment to Upadhyaya’s philosophy of Antyodaya, which means “upliftment of the last person.”
  • It is a day to remember the importance of serving the poorest and most marginalized members of society.
  • On Antyodaya Diwas, several events are held across India to raise awareness of Upadhyaya’s life and work.
  • These events include seminars, workshops, and exhibitions.
  • The government of India also organizes several programs on Antyodaya Diwas, such as the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY), a food security program for the poorest of the poor.

Antyodaya Diwas is a reminder that we all have a role to play in uplifting the poorest and most marginalized members of society. It is a day to recommit ourselves to working towards a more just and equitable society.

Significance of Antyodaya Diwas

Antyodaya Diwas is a significant day for several reasons:

  • It is a day to remember and celebrate the life and work of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, a prominent Indian leader, thinker, and economist.
  • It is a day to reaffirm the commitment to Upadhyaya’s philosophy of Antyodaya, which means “upliftment of the last person.”
  • It is a day to raise awareness of the importance of serving the poorest and most marginalized members of society.
  • It is a day to recommit ourselves to working towards a more just and equitable society.

Key Takeaways from this article:

Below are the key takeaways of Antodya Diwas:

  • Antyodaya Diwas, observed annually on September 25, honors the birth anniversary of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya.
  • The day serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to uplift the poorest and most marginalized members of society.
  • Encourages reflection on progress made and recognition of challenges that remain in social welfare and inclusive development.
  • Highlights the enduring legacy of Upadhyaya and his philosophy of Antyodaya, emphasizing the importance of supporting the last person in society.
  • Inspires individuals to embrace values of equity, social justice, and national harmony, contributing to a better and inclusive future for all.

FAQs

Q1. When is Antyodaya Diwas observed?

Ans. Antyodaya Diwas is observed annually on September 25 to mark the birth anniversary of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya.

Q2. What is the significance of Antyodaya Diwas?

Ans. The day honors Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya’s philosophy of Antyodaya, which emphasizes the upliftment of the last person in society, and celebrates his contributions to Indian politics and social welfare.

Q3. What is the theme for Antyodaya Diwas 2025?

Ans. As of now, the official theme for 2025 has not been announced, but the focus remains on uplifting marginalized and underprivileged communities.

Q4. Who was Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya?

Ans. He was a prominent Indian leader, co-founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS), and a thinker associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

Q5. Why is Antyodaya Diwas important for India?

Ans. It reminds citizens and policymakers of the responsibility to support the underprivileged, promotes social justice, and encourages inclusive development across the country.

Q6. How can individuals observe Antyodaya Diwas?

Ans. People can reflect on Upadhyaya’s ideals, participate in social welfare activities, and support initiatives that benefit marginalized communities.