Droupadi Murmu Biography – Journey from Tribal Roots to the 15th President of India
Read the inspiring Droupadi Murmu biography, highlighting her early life, political journey, achievements and rise as India’s President.
Droupadi Murmu Biography
Droupadi Murmu is an inspiring symbol of simplicity, resilience, and democratic values in India. Rising from a humble tribal background to become the 15th President of India, she represents the strength of grassroots leadership and inclusive governance. Her life journey reflects determination, service to society, and unwavering commitment to constitutional ideals. As the first tribal woman to hold the office of President, her story has become a source of motivation for millions across the nation.
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Early Life and Background
Droupadi Murmu was born on 20 June 1958 in Uparbeda village of the Mayurbhanj district in Odisha. She belongs to the Santhal tribal community, one of the prominent indigenous groups in eastern India. Her upbringing was deeply rooted in tribal culture, simplicity, and strong community values. Growing up in a modest household, she understood the struggles of rural and tribal life from a young age, which later shaped her empathetic approach to public service.
Despite limited resources, Murmu showed a keen interest in education. She completed her early schooling in her village and later pursued higher education at Ramadevi Women’s College in Bhubaneswar, where she earned a degree in Arts. Her educational journey itself was a significant achievement, considering the social and economic challenges faced by tribal women during that period.
Professional Life Before Politics
Before entering politics, Droupadi Murmu worked as a teacher, reflecting her passion for education and social upliftment. She also served as a junior assistant in the irrigation department of the Odisha government. These early professional experiences helped her develop discipline, administrative understanding, and a people-centric mindset. Her work life connected her closely with ordinary citizens and their everyday concerns.
Entry into Politics
Droupadi Murmu began her political career with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the late 1990s. Her clean image, dedication, and ability to connect with grassroots communities quickly earned her recognition. She was first elected as a councillor in the Rairangpur Nagar Panchayat, marking the beginning of her journey in public life.
In 2000, she was elected as a Member of the Odisha Legislative Assembly from the Rairangpur constituency. During her tenure, she served as Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Commerce and Transport and later for Fisheries and Animal Resources Development. Her work focused on welfare policies, infrastructure development, and empowering marginalized communities.
Role as Governor of Jharkhand
A major milestone in Murmu’s political career came in 2015, when she was appointed the Governor of Jharkhand. She became the first woman to hold this position in the state. As Governor, she was widely respected for her constitutional integrity, simplicity, and firm stance on tribal rights.
During her tenure, she returned several state bills for reconsideration, emphasizing the protection of tribal land and welfare. Her actions highlighted her deep commitment to social justice and constitutional values. She maintained dignity and neutrality in governance, earning admiration across political lines.
Becoming the President of India
In 2022, Droupadi Murmu was elected as the President of India, making history as the youngest President and the first tribal woman to hold the office. Her election was not just a political event but a powerful social message about representation and inclusivity in Indian democracy.
As President, she symbolizes unity, constitutional morality, and the aspirations of marginalized communities. Her journey from a small tribal village to Rashtrapati Bhavan stands as a testament to India’s democratic spirit, where dedication and integrity can overcome all barriers.
Personal Life and Challenges
Droupadi Murmu’s life has also been marked by personal tragedies. She faced the loss of close family members, yet continued her public duties with remarkable strength and grace. Her resilience in the face of adversity reflects her inner strength and unwavering commitment to service.
Despite holding the highest constitutional office, she remains grounded, known for her humble lifestyle, calm demeanor, and respectful conduct. Her personal journey adds depth to her public image, making her an inspiring figure beyond politics.
5 Life Inspirations from Droupadi Murmu
- Humble beginnings do not limit great dreams – Determination can overcome any barrier.
- Education empowers transformation – Learning creates pathways to leadership.
- Resilience in adversity builds strength – Personal losses did not weaken her resolve.
- Service before power defines true leadership – Her career reflects dedication to people.
- Stay rooted while rising high – Success is meaningful when connected to values.
Legacy and Significance
Droupadi Murmu’s legacy lies in her ability to inspire change without losing her roots. She represents hope for tribal communities, women, and underprivileged sections of society. Her life reinforces the belief that leadership is about service, empathy, and integrity rather than power.
She continues to inspire future generations to believe in education, perseverance, and constitutional values. Her presidency is a reminder that true progress comes from inclusive representation and respect for diversity.
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