On the birth anniversary of social reformer Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, political leaders across the spectrum came together to honour the legacy of a man who ignited a social revolution in 19th-century India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes, calling Phule a “true servant of humanity” and hailing his unyielding efforts to uplift the marginalised and champion equality.

In a message shared on social media, the Prime Minister wrote, "Respectful tribute to Mahatma Phule, a true servant of humanity, on his birth anniversary. He dedicated his life to the welfare of the exploited and deprived sections of society. His invaluable contribution to the country will continue to inspire every generation."

PM Modi also released a special video message, highlighting Mahatma Phule’s enduring influence on Indian society. "Mahatma Phule has left a deep impact on Indian society; he fought for social discrimination and inequality and tried to empower every person in the society. He established 'Satyashodhak Samaj,’" the Prime Minister said.

He especially lauded Phule's pioneering efforts in girls' education. "Mahatma Phule opened the closed door of education for the girl child. In that era, he opened schools for daughters and raised his voice against female foeticide. He used to say the situation of any society can be calculated by looking at the situation of women in that society. Taking motivation from the life of Mahatma Phule, I urge every parent to give access to education to their girl child," PM Modi appealed.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, echoing the sentiment, posted in Hindi: "Salutations to the great social reformer, educationist, and thinker Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Ji on his birth anniversary. Mahatma Phule Ji, who remained committed throughout his life to the empowerment of the underprivileged and the backward sections of society, became a pioneer of women's education in modern India."

He further noted, "Through the establishment of the 'Satyashodhak Samaj,' he made remarkable contributions towards freeing society from social evils. Mahatma Phule, who laid the foundation for social change through education, equality, and justice, is an exemplary figure whose life continues to inspire."

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also took to social media to remember Phule as a “strong voice” of the neglected. "His struggle for the eradication of various evils prevalent in society, like the caste system, inequality, and illiteracy, is inspiring and a guide for the entire humanity," he said.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis called Phule a “visionary” who “relentlessly fought for social justice, equality and women's education.” "Salutations to the visionary who relentlessly fought for social justice, equality and women's education, paving the way for an inclusive society, KrantiSurya Mahatma Jyotiba Phule on his Birth Anniversary!" Fadnavis posted.

Born in 1827 in Maharashtra, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule remains a towering figure in India's history of social justice. He relentlessly worked to dismantle the caste system and empower the oppressed, especially through access to education. Along with his wife Savitribai Phule, he opened the country’s first school for girls in Pune — a revolutionary act at the time.