February 23, (THEWILL) — In a symbolic move reflecting India’s journey from colonial rule to independence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the statue of British architect, Edwin Lutyens, at Rashtrapati Bhavan will be replaced by a statue of C Rajagopalachari, the first Indian Governor-General.
“Even after independence, statues of British administrators remained in Rashtrapati Bhavan while those of the nation’s greatest sons were denied space. Now, a statue of Rajaji will stand where Lutyens’ statue once did”, Modi said.
Lutyens, a prominent British architect, was selected in 1912 to design the new capital of British India. Alongside Herbert Baker, he created several landmark structures, including Rashtrapati Bhavan, India Gate, the North and South Blocks, and Connaught Place. The central administrative zone of New Delhi is still referred to as “Lutyens’ Delhi” in recognition of his work.
Rajagopalachari, popularly known as Rajaji, was a lawyer, freedom fighter, and close associate of Mahatma Gandhi. He played a leading role in the non-cooperation and civil disobedience movements and edited the Young India journal during Gandhi’s imprisonment. In June 1948, he succeeded Louis Mountbatten as Governor-General of India, the only Indian to hold the post before it was abolished in 1950.
Following his tenure as Governor-General, Rajagopalachari served in the government of former Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and later as Home Minister. In 1957, he resigned from the Congress Party and founded the Swatantra Party, advocating for principled opposition to Congress policies.
PM Modi said the move aligns with the spirit of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav and the “Panch-Pran” he outlined from the Red Fort, including freedom from the mentality of colonial subjugation. The “Rajaji Utsav” will be held on February 23, during which the statue will be unveiled in the central courtyard of Rashtrapati Bhavan.
“He was among those who saw power not as a position but as a service. His conduct, self-restraint, and independent thinking in public life inspire us even today”, Modi said.
An exhibition highlighting Rajagopalachari’s life and contributions will also be held as part of the Rajaji Utsav from February 24 to March 1.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
