Early Life and Education

Kocheril Raman Narayanan was born on October 27, 1920, in Uzhavoor, Kerala, into a Dalit family of modest means. Despite significant social and economic challenges, he showed exceptional academic promise. He completed his early schooling locally and went on to earn B.A. and M.A. degrees in English Literature from the University of Travancore, graduating with top honors. In 1944, he received the prestigious Tata Scholarship to study at the London School of Economics, where he studied under the guidance of eminent political thinker Harold Laski. Narayanan completed his B.Sc. (Hons) in Economics, with a specialization in Political Science.

Diplomatic and Political Career

After returning to India, Narayanan worked briefly as a journalist before joining the Indian Foreign Service in 1949. His diplomatic career saw him serve as India’s ambassador to several important nations, including China and the United States. In 1984, at the invitation of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, he entered active politics and was elected to the Lok Sabha from Ottapalam, Kerala. During his political tenure, he served as Minister of State for External Affairs, Science and Technology, and Planning.

Vice Presidency and Presidency

Narayanan was elected the ninth Vice President of India in 1992. In 1997, he achieved a historic milestone by becoming the 10th President of India — the first Dalit to assume the nation’s highest constitutional position. He secured a landslide victory with 95% of the electoral vote.

Presidential Tenure

As President, Narayanan earned a reputation for being proactive and principled. Referring to himself as a “working president,” he actively engaged with constitutional matters and did not shy away from using his discretionary powers. He became the first President to vote in a general election while in office. During periods of political uncertainty, he played a crucial role in appointing the Prime Minister in a hung Parliament and in deciding on the imposition of President’s Rule in a state.

Legacy and Death

Narayanan’s rise from a disadvantaged background to the highest office in the country reflects the strength and inclusivity of India’s democratic system. He passed away on November 9, 2005, at the age of 85. His life remains a powerful symbol of hope and equality, inspiring generations to believe in the transformative power of democracy.

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