20 Greatest Indians of the Last Century
20 Greatest Indians of the Last Century
India's journey over the last 100 years has been shaped by extraordinary individuals who have contributed to the fields of politics, science, arts, sports, spirituality, and social reform. These icons have left a lasting impact on the nation and the world. In this article, we honor 20 of the greatest Indians who have defined the 20th and early 21st centuries.
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1. Mahatma Gandhi (1869–1948)
The Father of the Nation
Gandhi’s philosophy of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Satyagraha (truth-force) united millions in India’s freedom struggle.
Movements like the Salt March (1930) and Quit India Movement (1942) showcased his leadership.
Legacy
His ideals inspired global leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela.
A symbol of peace, justice, and self-reliance.
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2. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (1891–1956)
The Architect of the Indian Constitution
Championed the rights of marginalized communities and fought against caste discrimination.
His seminal work, Annihilation of Caste, continues to inspire social reforms.
Legacy
His vision ensured social justice in the Indian Constitution.
Revered as a hero for Dalits and other marginalized communities.
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3. Jawaharlal Nehru (1889–1964)
India’s First Prime Minister
A visionary leader who emphasized industrialization, education, and scientific progress.
Advocated non-alignment during the Cold War, establishing India’s global identity.
Legacy
Played a pivotal role in shaping modern India’s democratic and secular fabric.
Founder of institutions like IITs, AIIMS, and ISRO.
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4. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (1875–1950)
The Iron Man of India
Integrated 562 princely states into the Indian Union post-independence.
Played a crucial role in uniting a fragmented India.
Legacy
His leadership is commemorated through the Statue of Unity.
A symbol of national integration and decisive governance.
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5. Subhas Chandra Bose (1897–1945)
The Revolutionary Leader
Founded the Indian National Army (INA) and sought military alliances to achieve independence.
His slogan “Jai Hind” continues to inspire patriotism.
Legacy
A bold and controversial figure who challenged conventional methods of resistance.
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6. Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam (1931–2015)
The Missile Man of India
Played a critical role in India’s missile and nuclear programs.
Served as the 11th President of India, inspiring youth through his vision.
Legacy
Known as the “People’s President.”
Authored inspirational books like Wings of Fire.
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7. Rabindranath Tagore (1861–1941)
The Bard of Bengal
First non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature (1913).
Composed India’s national anthem, Jana Gana Mana.
Legacy
A polymath whose work spanned literature, art, and education.
Founded Visva-Bharati University.
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8. Mother Teresa (1910–1997)
The Saint of the Slums
Founded the Missionaries of Charity to serve the poor in Kolkata.
Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979.
Legacy
Canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church.
Symbol of compassion and humanitarian service.
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9. Verghese Kurien (1921–2012)
The Milkman of India
Architect of the White Revolution, making India the largest producer of milk.
Founded AMUL and empowered millions of farmers.
Legacy
A pioneer of self-reliance and cooperative success.
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10. Lata Mangeshkar (1929–2022)
The Nightingale of India
One of the greatest playback singers, her voice defined Indian cinema for over seven decades.
Her songs transcended linguistic and regional barriers.
Legacy
Recipient of the Bharat Ratna.
A unifying cultural icon for Indians worldwide.
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11. Dr. Homi Bhabha (1909–1966)
The Father of India’s Nuclear Program
Played a key role in establishing the Atomic Energy Commission of India.
Laid the foundation for India’s nuclear advancements.
Legacy
His vision made India a leader in nuclear technology.
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12. Srinivasa Ramanujan (1887–1920)
The Mathematical Genius
Contributed groundbreaking theorems in mathematics.
Collaborated with G.H. Hardy at Cambridge.
Legacy
His work continues to influence modern mathematics.
Celebrated globally as a prodigious talent.
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13. M.S. Swaminathan (1925–2023)
The Father of the Green Revolution
Introduced high-yielding crop varieties, revolutionizing Indian agriculture.
Ensured food security for millions.
Legacy
His work transformed India into a self-sufficient nation in food production.
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14. Ratan Tata (1937-2024)
The Industrial Visionary
Led the Tata Group to global prominence.
Known for his philanthropy and ethical business practices.
Legacy
Played a key role in India’s industrial growth and global image.
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15. P.V. Narasimha Rao (1921–2004)
The Architect of Economic Reforms
As Prime Minister, initiated liberalization, privatization, and globalization policies.
Steered India through an economic crisis in the 1990s.
Legacy
His policies laid the foundation for India’s economic boom.
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16. Vikram Sarabhai (1919–1971)
The Father of Indian Space Program
Established ISRO, envisioning India’s advancements in space technology.
Championed the use of space for development.
Legacy
His vision made India a global leader in space exploration.
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17. Dhyan Chand (1905–1979)
The Wizard of Hockey
Led India to multiple Olympic gold medals in field hockey.
Regarded as one of the greatest athletes in history.
Legacy
His birthday is celebrated as National Sports Day in India.
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18. Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay (1903–1988)
The Cultural Reformer
Played a key role in reviving Indian handicrafts and handlooms.
A pioneering feminist and freedom fighter.
Legacy
Her efforts preserved India’s cultural heritage.
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19. Amartya Sen (1933–Present)
The Nobel-Winning Economist
Awarded the Nobel Prize in Economics (1998) for his work on welfare economics.
Advocated for human development and public welfare policies.
Legacy
A leading voice for poverty eradication and equity.
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20. Sachin Tendulkar (1973–Present)
The God of Cricket
One of the greatest cricketers in history, with over 100 international centuries.
An inspiration for millions in India and globally.
Legacy
Recipient of the Bharat Ratna.
A unifying figure in Indian sports and culture.
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