Who is Karpoori Thakur? Five facts about the Bharat Ratna-awardee

The socialist leader passed away in 1988

Former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur was on Tuesday, a day ahead of his birth anniversary, chosen for the country's highest civilian award Bharat Ratna, posthumously. Often referred to as the "Jan Nayak" or people's hero of Bihar politics, Thakur served as chief minister twice -- first for seven months in December 1970 and later for two years in 1977.

The socialist leader passed away in 1988.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a tribute to Karpoori Thakur and said his "relentless pursuit of social justice created a positive impact in the lives of crores of people."

"Over the last ten years, our Government has walked on the path of Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Ji, reflecting in our schemes and policies that have brought transformative empowerment," he added.

I bow to Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Ji on his birth centenary. On this special occasion, our Government has had the honour of conferring the Bharat Ratna on him. I’ve penned a few thoughts on his unparalleled impact on our society and polity. https://t.co/DrO4HuejVe

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 24, 2024

1. Karpoori Thakur was born on January 24, 1924, in a village in Samistupur district, which was renamed after him as 'Karpuri Gram'. He hailed from the Nai samaj (barber society).

2. He left college education for the country's freedom struggle. Because of his participation in the Quit India Movement, Thakur was arrested between 1942 and 1945.

3. He was first elected to the Bihar assembly in 1952 where he continued until his death. Thakur was inspired by heavyweights like Ram Manohar Lohia who spearheaded the socialist movement in post-Independent India. He was also close to Jayaprakash Narayan.

4. Thakur was the first non-Congress Chief Minister of Bihar. He served in the top job from December 1970 to June 1971 and later from June 1977 to April 1979. His tenure as CM is best remembered for the implementation of the recommendations of the Mungeri Lal Commission, whereby quotas for backward classes were introduced in the state.

5. He is also known in Bihar politics for enforcing a total prohibition on alcohol in 1970. His political journey was marked by his unwavering commitment to the marginalised sections of society.

(With PTI inputs)