Biography of Pherozeshah Mehta:
Pherozeshah Mehta (1845–1915) was a prominent Indian political leader, social reformer, and one of the key figures in the early nationalist movement in India. He played a crucial role in the social and political transformation of Bombay (now Mumbai) and was a respected leader and advocate for civil liberties.
Here is a brief biography of Pherozeshah Mehta:
Early Life:
Birth: Pherozeshah Mehta was born on August 4, 1845, in Bombay, British India, into a Parsi family.
Education: He studied at Elphinstone College in Bombay and later went to England for higher studies, where he studied law at the University of London.
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| Biography of Pherozeshah Mehta |
Pherozeshah Mehta’s Legal Career:
Return to India: After completing his legal studies, Mehta returned to Bombay and began his legal practice.
Advocacy: He became a successful lawyer and advocate, gaining recognition for his legal acumen and commitment to justice.
Political Career:
Indian National Congress: Pherozeshah Mehta was one of the founding members of the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1885.
Moderate Leader: He belonged to the moderate faction within the INC and advocated for constitutional methods and reforms in the initial phase of the nationalist movement.
Presidency Sessions: Mehta presided over the INC sessions in 1890 and 1901.
Pherozeshah Mehta’s Municipal and Social Reforms:
Bombay Municipal Corporation: Pherozeshah Mehta played a pivotal role in the Bombay Municipal Corporation, serving as its President for several terms.
Municipal Reforms: He introduced significant reforms in municipal governance, focusing on sanitation, public health, and urban development.
Educational Initiatives: Mehta worked for the promotion of education and was involved in educational reforms.
Journalism and Publications:
“Bombay Chronicle”: Mehta was the founder and editor of the “Bombay Chronicle,” a newspaper that played a crucial role in disseminating news and promoting political awareness.
Writing: He wrote extensively on political, social, and legal issues, contributing to the intellectual discourse of his time.
Opposition to Imperialism:
Anti-Partition Movement: Mehta vehemently opposed the partition of Bengal in 1905, considering it a divisive policy by the British.
Advocacy for Civil Liberties: He was known for his staunch advocacy for civil liberties and the rule of law.
Death of Pherozeshah Mehta:
Passing: Pherozeshah Mehta passed away on November 5, 1915, in Bombay, at the age of 70.
Legacy:
Honors: Pherozeshah Mehta is remembered as the “Lion of Bombay” for his contributions to municipal governance and social reform.
Statue: A statue of Pherozeshah Mehta stands in Mumbai near the Gateway of India, commemorating his legacy.
Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens: The Hanging Gardens in Mumbai were renamed in his honor.
Pherozeshah Mehta’s legacy lies in his multifaceted contributions to the fields of law, journalism, municipal governance, and social reform. His dedication to civil liberties and his role in the early nationalist movement have earned him a revered place in the history of India’s struggle for independence.