On July 25, 2022, Honorable President of India Droupadi Murmu didn’t just become the 15th president—she shattered boundaries for marginalized voices. Rising from a humble village in Odisha, she became India’s first tribal leader and only the second woman to hold the highest office, embodying empowerment and inclusion. As a beacon of hope for women, tribal communities, and other historically underserved groups, her journey from rural Odisha to Rashtrapati Bhavan reflects her dedication to lifting those often overlooked. President Murmu’s legacy speaks to progress, cultural pride, and the resilience needed to bring lasting change across India.
A Journey Rooted in Humility and Strength
President Droupadi Murmu’s story begins in Uparbeda, a small tribal village in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district, where she was born on June 20, 1958, into a Santhal family. Growing up in one of India’s most underdeveloped regions, Murmu faced the challenges of poverty and limited access to resources. Yet, her determination led her to become the first woman from her village to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rama Devi Women’s College in Bhubaneswar. Her educational achievement became a beacon of hope in her community, inspiring many to strive for education as a pathway to empowerment.
Public Service: A Career of Dedication and Resilience
Murmu’s career in public service began with her role as a junior assistant in Odisha’s Irrigation and Power Department, a post she held from 1979 to 1983. Later, she taught at the Sri Aurobindo Integral Education and Research Centre in Rairangpur, where her compassion for grassroots challenges grew. In 1997, she joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and was soon elected as a councilor for Rairangpur Nagar Panchayat. Her efforts to improve local infrastructure and community welfare set the tone for her larger political ambitions. By 2000, she became a Member of the Legislative Assembly in Odisha, serving as Minister of Commerce and Transport, and later as Minister of Fisheries and Animal Resources.
In this period, Murmu became known for her accessible, people-centered leadership. Her dedication earned her the Nilakantha Das Best Legislator Award in 2007, an honor that highlighted her impact on Odisha’s political landscape.
Endurance Through Personal Tragedies
Despite the triumphs in her career, Murmu faced significant personal hardships, enduring the loss of both her sons and her husband within a few years. Her journey through grief and recovery became a profound story of resilience. Turning to spirituality, particularly through the Prajapita Brahmakumaris, she found strength and a renewed commitment to her community and her career. Her return to public life was marked by an intensified focus on social service, especially for marginalized communities.
A Champion for Tribal Rights
In 2015, Murmu became the first woman governor of Jharkhand, a post that enabled her to make historic strides for tribal rights. Known for her strong stance on safeguarding tribal lands, she notably opposed amendments to the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act and the Santhal Pargana Tenancy Act, which would have permitted commercial leasing of tribal lands. Her advocacy ultimately led to the withdrawal of these proposed amendments, underscoring her commitment to protecting the rights and traditions of India’s indigenous populations.
Becoming President: A Milestone for Diversity and Progress
Murmu’s ascent to the presidency in 2022 was monumental, marking her as the first tribal leader and the youngest person to hold the office. Her election is not just a personal achievement but a landmark in India’s democratic narrative. By embracing someone from a tribal background and rural upbringing, India reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity and social progress. Since taking office, Murmu has focused on initiatives promoting tribal education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, emphasizing her dedication to empowering underrepresented communities across the nation.
A Legacy of Hope and Transformation
President Droupadi Murmu’s life and career serve as a testament to the transformative power of education, resilience, and service. Her journey from a small tribal village to Rashtrapati Bhavan is a story of overcoming adversity and inspiring change. Today, she continues to uplift and advocate for the marginalized, reminding the nation of the power of diversity and the promise that lies in every individual, no matter their origin. As she charts her legacy, President Murmu stands as an enduring symbol of India’s progress and the limitless possibilities of perseverance.