The question of Who Get Bharat Ratna After Death often sparks curiosity and a deep sense of national pride. While the Bharat Ratna is India’s highest civilian award, bestowed upon individuals for their exceptional contributions, the possibility of posthumous recognition adds a unique dimension to its legacy. Understanding who qualifies and the circumstances surrounding these honors sheds light on how India chooses to remember its greatest achievers.
Posthumous Bharat Ratna Understanding the Criteria
The Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, is primarily intended to recognize distinguished service of the highest order. While the spirit of the award is to honor living individuals for their lifetime achievements, there is a provision for conferring it posthumously. This means that if a deserving individual passes away before receiving the award, their contributions can still be acknowledged by the Indian government. The decision to award the Bharat Ratna posthumously rests with the President of India, acting on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. There isn’t a fixed quota or a specific rulebook detailing every scenario, but the underlying principle is to honor those whose impact transcends their mortal existence.
Several factors are generally considered when contemplating a posthumous Bharat Ratna. These include:
- The magnitude and impact of the individual’s contributions to India.
- The lasting legacy and inspiration they provide to future generations.
- The unanimous or strong consensus among experts and the public regarding their unparalleled service.
Some notable figures who have been honored posthumously include:
- Mahatma Gandhi (initially considered, but later decided against to avoid setting a precedent)
- Subhas Chandra Bose (award later rescinded due to controversy, but remains a significant figure)
- Lal Bahadur Shastri
- Indira Gandhi
- Rajiv Gandhi
- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
- Gopinath Bordoloi
- Jayaprakash Narayan
- Acharya Narendra Dev
- Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya
- Atal Bihari Vajpayee
- Madan Mohan Malaviya
The following table provides a glimpse into some of the posthumous Bharat Ratna recipients and their primary fields of contribution:
| Name | Year of Award (Posthumous) | Field |
|---|---|---|
| Lal Bahadur Shastri | 1966 | Politics, Public Service |
| Indira Gandhi | 1971 | Politics, Public Service |
| Rajiv Gandhi | 1991 | Politics, Public Service |
| Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel | 1991 | Politics, Social Reform |
This honor is not merely a recognition of past deeds but a testament to the enduring influence these individuals have on the fabric of the nation. The posthumous conferral of the Bharat Ratna serves as a powerful reminder of their indelible mark on history and their continued relevance in the national consciousness. It underscores the Indian government’s commitment to acknowledging and celebrating its most impactful citizens, regardless of their temporal presence.
For a comprehensive understanding of the individuals who have been honored with the Bharat Ratna, including those who received it posthumously, please refer to the official records and documentation maintained by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.