Life and Legacy of Kumaraswami Kamaraj

Kumaraswami Kamaraj, born on July 15, 1903, in Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu, emerged from humble beginnings to become one of India's most revered political leaders and a symbol of simplicity and service. Known affectionately as “Perunthalaivar” (Great Leader), his life’s journey continues to inspire millions across Tamil Nadu and the country, especially on his birthday, now celebrated as Kamarajar Day.

From Virudhunagar to the Freedom Struggle

Kamaraj’s early years were shaped by family hardship. After losing his father at the age of six, young Kamaraj left school at twelve to support his mother and sister. Although his formal education was cut short, his thirst for learning and a commitment to public service only grew stronger during these formative years.

Drawn to the Indian independence movement, he joined the Congress Party at seventeen, encouraged by the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and local leaders. Kamaraj actively participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Salt Satyagraha, which resulted in several imprisonments. He used his time in jail to self-educate, transforming adversity into the pursuit of knowledge and leadership skills.

Also Read: Speech on Kamarajar for Students

A Visionary Leader in Madras State

Kamaraj became Chief Minister of Madras (now Tamil Nadu) on April 13, 1954. His tenure is widely celebrated for foundational advances in education reform and social upliftment. Notably, he banished the Hereditary Education Policy, replacing it with equal opportunities for all children, regardless of background or caste.

• Launched the Midday Meal Scheme to combat child hunger and boost enrolment in government schools.


• Ensured every village had a primary school and expanded high school access across rural Tamil Nadu.


• Introduced free and compulsory education up to the eleventh standard, sparking a revolution in literacy rates.


• Focused on social justice through new infrastructure, irrigation projects, and support for small-scale farmers.

The “Kingmaker” and National Influence

Beyond state politics, Kamaraj’s influence as a unifying figure in the Congress Party reshaped national history. He became party president, and his strategic brilliance earned him the title “Kingmaker of India.” Responsible for bringing leaders like Lal Bahadur Shastri and Indira Gandhi to the prime minister’s office, Kamaraj’s political acumen extended far beyond Tamil Nadu.

Admired for his personal integrity and approachability, he was known to visit every village in his state and prioritize grassroots needs. Kamaraj’s ability to mobilize support across castes helped transform the Congress Party's social base, empowering marginalized communities and Dalits.

Also read: Freedom Fighters of Tamil Nadu

Inspirational Values and Enduring Legacy

Kamaraj remains an enduring role model for simplicity, honesty, and service. Unlike many political leaders, he lived a modest life, leaving behind only a handful of possessions at his death in 1975. Kamaraj was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, in 1976 for his lifelong dedication to the public good.

Institutions like Kamaraj University and the expansion of library and literacy movements in Tamil Nadu reflect the breadth of his influence. Today, children across the state celebrate his birthday with special assemblies, essays, and, fittingly, shared meals at Noon Meal Centres, reflecting his commitment to educational access and dignity for every child.

Also Read: Essay on Kamarajar for Students

Memorable Quotes and Life Lessons

• "If one school is not opened, I feel as though a limb of mine has been cut." – embodiment of his passion for education.


• "The duty of a public servant is to do his job honestly and serve the people." – a call for honest governance.


• Encouraged “leadership without power or position,” reminding youth and citizens to focus on serving society first.

Commemorating Kamaraj: Celebrations and Modern Relevance

Kamarajar’s birthday is marked annually by public speeches, school events, and commemorations at Noon Meal Centres, particularly across Tamil Nadu. His story encourages communities to renew efforts for social justice and inclusive development. For students and educators, Kamaraj’s example is a prompt to pursue knowledge, community well-being, and equality with unwavering determination.

He stands as a timeless symbol of leadership rooted in compassion, humility, and transformative vision—an Indian statesman whose work paved the path for generations to dream and achieve more.