Droupadi Murmu, the 15th President of India, celebrates her 67th birthday today, June 20, 2025. Born on June 20, 1958, in Baidaposhi, Mayurbhanj district, Odisha,
Droupadi Murmu made history by becoming the country's first tribal, second woman, and first Odia President.
Early Life and Education
Droupadi Murmu was born into a simple Santali family to Biranchi Narayan Tudu. Her journey began with her education at Uberbeda Primary School, followed by Unit-2 Girls' High School in Bhubaneswar, and later, Ramadeba Women's College, where she completed her graduation in Arts.
Career and Politics
Before entering politics, Droupadi Murmu worked as a Junior Assistant in the Irrigation and Electricity Department under the Government of Odisha and later taught at Sri Aurobindo Integral Education in Rairangpur. Her political career took off in 1997 when she won as a ward member. She went on to serve as:
- Minister of Commerce and Transport and Minister of Fisheries and Animal Husbandry in the BJD-BJP coalition government
- Vice-President of the Tribal Front and Member of the National Executive Committee
- State President of the Bharatiya Janata Party Tribal Front from 2006 to 2009
- Governor of Jharkhand from 2015 to 2021
Personal Life and Challenges
Draoupadi Murmu's life hasn't been without challenges. She faced immense personal loss, including the passing of her husband, Shyam Charan Murmu, in 2014, and the tragic deaths of her two sons, Laxman Murmu in 2009 and Sipun Murmu in 2013. Despite these hardships, she continued to move forward, finding solace in spirituality and her work .
Presidency and Legacy
As President, Droupadi Murmu has been known for her simple and unpretentious life, as well as her inspiring speeches. Her journey to the presidency is a testament to her perseverance and dedication. She launched initiatives like 'Pradhanmantri TB Mukht Bharat' to eradicate tuberculosis and has been a strong advocate for tribal rights and women's empowerment.