'Outstanding Thinker': PM Modi Pays Tributes To Lokmanya Tilak On 169th Birth Anniversary
Remembering Tilak's role in igniting the nationalist movement, the Prime Minister highlighted his belief in education and service.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid homage to freedom fighter Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak on his 169th birth anniversary, praising his courage and lasting contributions to India's struggle for independence.
Remembering Tilak's role in igniting the nationalist movement, the Prime Minister highlighted his belief in education and service.
'Remembering Lokmanya Tilak on his birth anniversary. He was a pioneering leader who played a vital role in kindling the spirit of India's freedom movement with unwavering conviction. He was also an outstanding thinker who believed in the power of knowledge and serving others," PM Modi wrote on X.
Remembering Lokmanya Tilak on his birth anniversary. He was a pioneering leader who played a vital role in kindling the spirit of India's freedom movement with unwavering conviction. He was also an outstanding thinker who believed in the power of knowledge and serving others.— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 23, 2025
Bal Gangadhar Tilak is remembered for promoting the concept of Swaraj, or self-rule, during British rule. A strong advocate of civil rights, he used journalism as a tool of resistance, founding the weeklies Kesari in Marathi and Mahratta in English.
A scholar and philosopher, Tilak played a foundational role in shaping India's early independence movement.
He led the Indian Home Rule League after its formation in 1914 and co-signed the 1916 Lucknow Pact with Mohammed Ali Jinnah, which promoted Hindu-Muslim unity in the national movement.
A scholar, lawyer, and journalist, Tilak played a pivotal role in awakening nationalist sentiments through his writings and public addresses.
His iconic assertion—"Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it"—became a rallying cry that inspired countless Indians to join the freedom struggle.
His deep connect with the people earned him the title 'Lokmanya," signifying the public's recognition of his leadership and vision.
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First Published:
July 23, 2025, 10:15 IST
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