2017 - Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya | Commemorative Coin

The 3rd commemorative coin of 2017 was released to mark the Birth Centenary of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya.

Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya remains one of modern India’s most influential thinkers, political philosophers, and nation-builders whose ideas continue to shape the country’s intellectual and socio-political foundations. Born on September 25, 1916, in Nagla Chandrabhan in present-day Uttar Pradesh, he was orphaned at a young age and raised by close relatives, yet these early hardships only strengthened his resolve and instilled in him a deep sense of service, discipline, and empathy for society’s marginalized sections. His brilliance as a student and his quiet, contemplative nature earned him admiration from teachers and peers, eventually guiding him toward a life of national service and ideological exploration.

Upadhyaya became closely associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) early in life, absorbing lessons in character-building, cultural rootedness, and organizational discipline. His capacity for clear thinking and persuasive articulation soon made him a key figure in shaping the political direction of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the predecessor of today’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). As a thinker, he sought to articulate an Indian framework for progress, one that incorporated the nation’s civilizational wisdom while embracing modern aspirations. This search led him to formulate the philosophy of Integral Humanism, which he presented in a series of landmark lectures in 1965.

Integral Humanism emphasized a balanced, holistic approach to development, one that viewed human beings not merely as economic units but as complete beings with physical, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. Upadhyaya argued that India’s progress could not be modeled solely on Western economic theories; instead, it needed a culturally rooted path that harmonized individual needs with collective welfare. His philosophy placed importance on self-reliance, decentralized economic structures, and social harmony, advocating for upliftment of the poorest and most vulnerable while ensuring unity in diversity.

As a leader, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya was known for his humility, simplicity, and unwavering dedication. He traveled tirelessly across the country to strengthen the Jana Sangh’s organizational structure, connecting with grassroots workers and inspiring them with his clarity of vision. His writings, including numerous editorials and political analyses, reflected a deep understanding of India’s social fabric and the challenges of post-independence nation-building. His brief tenure as President of the Jana Sangh came to a tragic end when he passed away under mysterious circumstances in February 1968, leaving behind an enduring legacy of thought and action.

Today, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya is remembered as a guiding force whose ideas on governance, socio-economic development, and cultural identity continue to resonate. His emphasis on the “Antyodaya” principle—uplifting the last person in the line—remains central to many contemporary welfare initiatives. The commemoration of his birth centenary rekindled national interest in his contributions and reaffirmed his place among India’s most respected thinkers. His life stands as a testament to selfless service, intellectual depth, and a vision of India rooted in compassion, dignity, and holistic progress.

Release Function: