Overview
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted a tribute on X praising Rajendra Prasad’s simplicity, courage, and service, saying his vision continues to inspire generations.
- Before the republic was proclaimed, Prasad presided over the Constituent Assembly and was elected as independent India’s first President in January 1950.
- He served from January 26, 1950, to May 13, 1962, remaining the only Indian President to complete two full terms.
- A distinguished lawyer who embraced Gandhian politics, he joined the Non-Cooperation and Salt Satyagraha movements and spent periods in jail during the freedom struggle.
- He received the Bharat Ratna in 1962, retired to Sadaqat Ashram in Patna, and died on February 28, 1963.