Dr. Zakir Hussain
Dr. Zakir Hussain, born on February 8, 1897, in Hyderabad, was an esteemed Indian educationist and politician who made history as the third President of India, serving from May 13, 1967, until his death on May 3, 1969. His early life was marked by the loss of his parents, which led him to pursue education with a fervent zeal. He was a key figure in the establishment of the National Muslim University in Aligarh, which later became Jamia Millia Islamia, showcasing his commitment to education and the Indian freedom movement. Hussain’s academic journey took him to the University of Berlin, where he earned a Ph.D. in Economics. Throughout his career, he held several significant positions, including Vice Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University and Governor of Bihar, before ascending to the roles of Vice President and then President of India. His contributions to education and politics were recognized with India’s highest civilian awards, the Padma Vibhushan in 1954 and the Bharat Ratna in 1963. Hussain was also a prolific writer, contributing to children’s literature and translating significant works into Urdu, reflecting his deep engagement with education and culture. His legacy as a leader who bridged the gap between education and governance remains influential.
