GeneralSource: Hindustan Times
Replacement of Edwin Lutyens' statue by C. Rajagopalachari's statue at Rashtrapati Bhavan
Monday, 23 February 2026
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The Prime Minister of India announced the replacement of Edwin Lutyens' statue at Rashtrapati Bhavan with that of C. Rajagopalachari, India's first Governor-General. This change signifies a shift in honoring Indian historical figures, relevant for UPSC aspirants studying GS Paper 1 and 2. Last Updated: 23-02-2026
Key Facts About C. Rajagopalachari
- C. Rajagopalachari was the first and last Indian Governor-General of independent India.
- Born on 10th December 1878 in Salem, Madras Province (now Tamil Nadu).
- Led the Vedaranyam Salt Satyagraha in 1930, inspired by the Dandi March.
- Authored the C.R. Formula in 1944 to resolve the constitutional deadlock between INC and the Muslim League.
- Served as Union Home Minister and played a key role in drafting the First Five-Year Plan.
- Founded the Swatantra Party in 1959, advocating for a market economy.
- Received the Bharat Ratna in 1954, India's highest civilian award.
India's Architectural Heritage and Historical Recognition
The replacement of Lutyens' statue with Rajagopalachari's highlights India's ongoing efforts to honor its own historical figures and leaders. This change aligns with India's strategic goal of redefining its post-colonial identity while preserving its rich architectural heritage. India ranks among the top nations in preserving colonial-era architecture, yet it continues to emphasize its own historical narratives.
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper 1: Modern Indian history, significant personalities.
- GS Paper 2: Indian polity, governance, and historical legacies.
- Prelims Angle: Questions on C. Rajagopalachari's contributions, the Vedaranyam Salt Satyagraha, and the C.R. Formula.
- Mains Angle: Analytical themes on post-colonial identity and historical recognition in India.
- Essay Paper: Topics on India's journey from colonial rule to self-governance.
FAQ Section
- What is the significance of replacing Lutyens' statue with Rajagopalachari's? This replacement honors C. Rajagopalachari, India's first Governor-General, reflecting a shift towards recognizing Indian leaders in historical narratives.
- Why is C. Rajagopalachari important? Rajagopalachari was a key figure in India's freedom struggle, served as the first Indian Governor-General, and contributed significantly to India's political and economic policies post-independence.
- What are the key features of the C.R. Formula? The C.R. Formula proposed a solution to the constitutional deadlock between the INC and the Muslim League, suggesting a framework for resolving the demand for Pakistan.
Detailed Coverage
- Statue Replacement: Edwin Lutyens' statue at Rashtrapati Bhavan to be replaced by C. Rajagopalachari's statue.
- Rajagopalachari's Legacy: First Indian Governor-General of independent India.
- Birth: Born on 10th December 1878 in Salem, Tamil Nadu.
- Indian National Movement: Joined Indian National Congress, inspired by Bal Gangadhar Tilak.
- Salt Satyagraha: Led the Vedaranyam Salt Satyagraha in 1930.
- Prime Minister Role: Served as Prime Minister of Madras Province in 1937.
- Khadi Promotion: Advocated for Khadi and abolition of the Zamindari system.
- C.R. Formula: Proposed a solution to the constitutional deadlock post-Quit India Movement.
- Post-Independence Leadership: Served as Governor of West Bengal and Union Home Minister.
- Five-Year Plan: Played a key role in drafting India's First Five-Year Plan.
- Swatantra Party: Founded the party in 1959 advocating for a market economy.
- Food Distribution: Decontrolled foodgrain distribution as Chief Minister of Madras State.
- Literary Contributions: Founded an ashram and published notable works.
- Sahitya Akademi Award: Won in 1958 for his Tamil retelling of the Ramayana.
- Bharat Ratna: One of the first recipients of India's highest civilian award in 1954.
- Lutyens' Delhi: Edwin Lutyens designed several iconic buildings in New Delhi.
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