Maulana Abul Kalam Azad’s full name was Abul Kalam Ghulam Muhiyuddin Ahmed bin Khairuddin Al-Hussaini Azad.

Maulana Azad was born on 11 November 1888. He died on 22 February 1958. He was the First Minister of Education in the Indian government post-independence.

Maulana Azad’s birthday is celebrated as the National Education Day across India. He is credited for bringing several reforms in India’s education system. 

Maulana Azad was also an Urdu poet. The meaning of ‘Maulana’ is ‘Our Master.’ He adopted ‘Azad’ as his pen name, meaning ‘Freedom.’
 

Maulana Azad gained recognition for his work as a journalist. He formed contacts with national leaders when he became the leader of the Khilafat Movement. 
 

Remarkably, Maulana Azad never attended school. He was home-schooled and self-taught. He was fluent in multiple languages such as Arabic, Bengali, Hindustani, Persian, and English. 
 

Maulana Azad had a mastery of subjects such as mathematics, philosophy, world history, science, and Mazahibs.
 

“You have to dream before your dreams can come true.”
 

“Educationists should build the capacities of the spirit of inquiry, creativity, entrepreneurial and moral leadership among students and become their role model.”

“Be more dedicated to making solid achievements than in running after swift but synthetic happiness.”
 

“Education imparted by heart can bring revolution in the society.”