Who Is Jagjivan Ram? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Born on April 5, 1908, Jagjivan Ram was an influential figure in Indian politics and a staunch advocate for the rights of marginalized communities. Renowned for his leadership in the Indian independence movement, he played a pivotal role in shaping India's socio-political landscape. Sadly, he passed away on July 6, 1986. As of 2025, Jagjivan Ram would have been 117 years old, had he lived.
| Occupation | Prime Ministers |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 5, 1908 |
| Age | 78 Years |
| Birth Place | Arrah, Bengal Presidency, British India (present-day Bihar, India) |
| Horoscope | Aries |
| Country | India |
| Date of death | 6 July, 1986 |
| Died Place | New Delhi, Delhi, India |
Popularity
Jagjivan Ram's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Throughout his life, Jagjivan Ram was known for his commanding presence, although specific details about his height and weight remain relatively obscure, as physical statistics were not a primary focus in historical records. However, his stature as a leader and freedom fighter far outweighed conventional measurements.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Jagjivan Ram was married to Sucheta Ram, who was also an influential figure, contributing to social issues and women's rights. They had a loving family with children who continued to honor their legacy. As a public figure, he maintained a respectful image, focusing on his commitments rather than personal relationships outside of marriage.
He had an elder brother, Sant Lal, and three sisters. His father Sobhi Ram was with the British Indian Army, posted at Peshawar, but later resigned due to some differences, and bought farming land in his native village Chandwa and settled there. He also became a Mahant of the Shiv Narayani sect, and being skilled in calligraphy, illustrated many books for the sect that were distributed locally.
Net Worth and Salary
Given the era and context in which he lived, Jagjivan Ram's net worth is not extensively documented. However, as a prominent politician and member of the Indian Parliament for several decades, it is reasonable to believe that he had a stable income derived from his political career and public service. In 2025, discussions around his financial standing would primarily revolve around his contributions rather than monetary wealth.
Career, Business, and Investments
Jagjivan Ram's career spanned several significant roles, including that of a member of the Indian National Congress and later as a key leader in the Janata Party. He served in various ministerial positions, including the Minister of Railways and Minister of Defence. His business investments weren't widely publicized, as his legacy focused more on his political endeavors and societal contributions rather than private enterprises.
A few days before the elections, on a Sunday, Jagjivan Ram addressed an Opposition rally at the famous Ram Lila Grounds in Delhi. The national broadcaster Doordarshan allegedly attempted to stop crowds from participating in the demonstration by telecasting the blockbuster movie Bobby.
The rally still drew large crowds, and a newspaper headline the next day ran "Babu beats Bobby". He was the Deputy Prime Minister of India when Morarji Desai was the prime minister, from 1977 to 1979.
Though initially reluctant to join the cabinet, he was not present at the oath-taking ceremony on 24 March 1977, but he eventually did so at the behest of Jai Prakash Narayan, who insisted that his presence was necessary, "not just as an individual but as a political and social force." However, he was once again given the defence portfolio.
His last position in government was as Deputy Prime Minister of India in the Janata Party government of 1977–1979.
Social Network
Though the concept of social networking as we know it today didn't exist during his lifetime, Jagjivan Ram was highly active in social justice movements, connecting with various leaders and organizations that shared his vision for an equal society. In the digital age, his legacy continues to inspire activism through platforms dedicated to social reform, where his message of equality resonates widely.
Jagjivan Ram passed his matriculation in the first division and joined the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in 1927, where he was awarded the Birla scholarship, and passed his Inter Science Examination. While at BHU, he organised the scheduled castes to protest against social discrimination.
As a Dalit student, he was denied basic services like meals in his hostel and haircuts by local barbers. A Dalit barber would arrive occasionally to trim his hair. Eventually, Jagjivan left BHU and continued his education at Calcutta University.
In 2007, the BHU set up a Babu Jagjivan Ram Chair in its faculty of social sciences to study caste discrimination and economic backwardness.
Education
Jagjivan Ram was educated at the University of Calcutta, where he developed a profound understanding of social issues that influenced his later work. His educational foundation contributed significantly to his capabilities as a leader, allowing him to effectively articulate the needs of the oppressed communities he represented.
He received a B. Sc. degree from the University of Calcutta in 1931, where again he organised conferences to draw attention toward issues of discrimination, and also participated in the anti-untouchability movement started by Mahatma Gandhi.
