Chakravarti Rajagopalachari, often referred to as C. Rajagopalachari or simply Rajaji, was a prominent Indian freedom fighter, politician, statesman, and scholar. He played a significant role in India’s struggle for independence and post-independence governance. Here is an overview of his life and contributions:

1. Early Life and Education: C. Rajagopalachari was born on December 10, 1878, in Thorapalli, Tamil Nadu, India. He had a distinguished academic career, earning degrees in law and the arts.
2. Entry into Politics: Rajagopalachari was actively involved in the Indian freedom movement. He was a member of the Indian National Congress and was deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of non-violence and civil disobedience.
3. Participation in the Freedom Movement: Rajagopalachari actively participated in various campaigns during the freedom struggle, including the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Civil Disobedience Movement. He was arrested multiple times for his involvement in these protests.
4. Promotion of Khadi: Rajagopalachari was a strong proponent of Khadi, or hand-spun and handwoven cloth, as part of the Swadeshi Movement. He believed in economic self-sufficiency and encouraged the use of Khadi to boycott British-made textiles.
5. Role in Post-Independence India: After India gained independence in 1947, C. Rajagopalachari held several important positions. He was the first Indian Governor-General of India, serving from 1948 to 1950. Later, he served as the Chief Minister of Madras State (now Tamil Nadu) and the Chief Minister of Andhra State (now Andhra Pradesh and Telangana).
6. Promotion of Education: Rajagopalachari was a strong advocate for education and contributed to the establishment of several educational institutions, including the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.
7. Writer and Translator: He was a prolific writer and translator. His English translation of the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana, is particularly well-known and widely read.
8. Death: C. Rajagopalachari passed away on December 25, 1972, leaving behind a legacy of political leadership, social reform, and literary contributions.
9. Legacy: Rajagopalachari is remembered for his principled approach to politics, his commitment to Gandhian ideals, and his contributions to the nation. His views on economics, governance, and education continue to influence public discourse in India.

Rajagopalachari was a multi-faceted leader who played a vital role in India’s struggle for independence and its early years of nation-building. His legacy as a statesman, scholar, and reformer endures in India’s history.