2018-08-10 Fri

Varahagiri Venkata Giri, also known as V. V. Giri, was the fourth president of India from 24 August 1969 to 24 August 1974. He was born on 10th August 1894, in Berhampur, Odisha.

Griri was a successful lawyer and political activist of the Indian National Congress. While studying law in Ireland, young Giri developed contacts with Irish leaders like De Valera, William Collins and was inspired by the revolutionary and trade union activities of the Irish freedom struggle.

His very first contact with Gandhi in London in 1914 brought a new turn to his life. Upon return to India in 1916 Giri enrolled at the Madras High Court. He also became a member of the Congress party, attended its Lucknow session and joined the Home Rule Movement of Annie Besant.

Giri abandoned a flourishing legal career in response to Mahatma Gandhi's call for a Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920. In 1922, he was arrested for the first time for demonstrating against the sale of liquor shops.

Later, he became Minister of Labor in the Central Cabinet. He was also appointed Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, and Karnataka. India Government honoured him with India’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna.

A commemorative postage stamp was on V.V Giri was released by the Indian Postal Department in 1974.

Image Source: Mintage World