Indramani Badoni, known as the Gandhi of Uttarakhand, was a great leader, activist, and politician. He played a crucial role in the Uttarakhand statehood movement. His dedication, non-violent approach, and commitment to the welfare of the people made him a respected figure in Indian history.
Early Life and Education
Indramani Badoni was born on December 24, 1925, in Akhodi, a small village in Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand. His parents, Kaldi Devi and Sureshanand, belonged to a simple farming family. His childhood was spent in poverty, but he was determined to get an education.
He completed his early schooling in his village and later studied in Nainital and Dehradun. He graduated from DAV PG College, Dehradun, in 1949. Badoni married Surji Devi when he was just 19 years old. After marriage, he went to Mumbai in search of a job but had to return due to health issues.
Apart from academics, Badoni was interested in folk music and theatre. He was a skilled artist and could play traditional instruments. In 1956, he led a Kedar dance performance at the Republic Day Parade in Delhi. This showcased his deep connection with Uttarakhand’s cultural heritage.
Entry into Politics
Badoni’s political journey began in 1953 when Meera Ben, a follower of Mahatma Gandhi, visited Tehri. She was looking for an educated person to help in social work. Badoni took this opportunity and started working for the betterment of his village.
Political Positions and Elections
- In 1961, he became the village head and later became the block development head of Jakholi.
- In 1967, he was elected as an independent candidate from Devprayag to the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly.
- In 1969, he joined the Indian National Congress and was elected again.
- In 1977, during the Janata Party wave, he contested as an independent candidate and won with a huge margin.
Despite his political success, he also faced defeats.
- In 1974, he lost to Govind Prasad Gairola.
- In 1989, he contested for the Lok Sabha elections but lost to Brahm Dutt.
- It is said that he had only one rupee in his pocket when filing his nomination, whereas his opponent spent lakhs on campaigning.
Despite these losses, Badoni remained dedicated to the cause of Uttarakhand and never gave up.
Contribution to Education
Indramani Badoni believed that education is the key to development. He established many schools in Uttarakhand, including:
- Intermediate College Kathud
- Magadhar School
- Dhutu School
- Higher Secondary School Bugalidhar
His efforts helped improve literacy rates and provided better education to children in remote villages.
Role in the Uttarakhand Statehood Movement
Badoni’s biggest contribution was in the Uttarakhand statehood movement. He strongly believed that the hill regions needed separate governance for better development.
Major Events in the Movement
- In 1988, he started a 105-day march across Uttarakhand to spread awareness about the demand for a separate state. He went door to door, explaining to people why a new state was necessary.
- In 1992, he declared Gairsain as the capital of Uttarakhand during a rally in Bageshwar.
- In 1994, he started a fast-unto-death in Pauri, demanding a separate state. The government arrested him and took him to Meerut, and later shifted him to AIIMS Delhi to weaken the movement.
- His arrest angered people, and the movement gained momentum.
- Finally, on November 9, 2000, Uttarakhand was created, but Badoni was not alive to see his dream come true.
His dedication, non-violent approach, and leadership made him the face of the Uttarakhand movement.
Legacy and Recognition
- The Washington Post called him the “Mountain Gandhi” because of his Gandhian principles.
- Despite being one of the key leaders of the Uttarakhand movement, his contributions are often forgotten in mainstream history.
- In Rishikesh, his memorial at Vithal Ashram reminds people of his efforts.
Indramani Badoni was a true leader who dedicated his life to social work, education, and the Uttarakhand movement. He sacrificed personal gains for the betterment of his people. Today, Uttarakhand exists because of his struggles and determination. Though he is no longer with us, his vision, leadership, and contributions will always be remembered.
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