Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to social reformer Jyotiba Phule on his 200th birth anniversary, praising him as a pioneer who championed the rights of women and marginalised communities and laid strong foundations for social equality through education.

In a message posted on social media platform X, the Prime Minister said Phule dedicated his life to the ideals of equality, justice, and education. He highlighted that Phule viewed education as a powerful tool of empowerment, especially for those historically excluded from access to learning opportunities. Modi added that Phule’s ideas continue to inspire efforts toward building a more inclusive society.

Earlier in the day, President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi paid floral tributes to Phule at Prerna Sthal on the Parliament premises, marking the formal commencement of commemorative events for the reformer’s 200th birth anniversary.

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Several senior leaders, including Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Union Ministers Arjun Ram Meghwal and J. P. Nadda, along with former Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh, also paid homage to the reformer during the ceremony.

Born in 1827 in Satara, Maharashtra, Phule is widely regarded as one of India’s most influential social reformers. He, along with his wife Savitribai Phule, pioneered efforts to promote women’s education and worked extensively against caste discrimination. Together, they established schools for girls and marginalised communities, challenging entrenched social norms of their time.

Phule also founded the Satyashodhak Samaj, an organisation aimed at promoting equality and social justice for oppressed groups. His work remains central to Maharashtra’s reformist history and continues to influence modern discourse on education, equality, and empowerment.

The government had earlier announced that the 200th birth anniversary of Phule would be commemorated with nationwide events aimed at highlighting his contributions. Leaders across political parties have reiterated that his legacy remains deeply relevant in shaping policies focused on social justice and inclusive development today.

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