Anugrah Narayan Sinha
Biography
A leading freedom fighter and the first Deputy Chief Minister cum Finance Minister of Bihar.
Contribution
Born on 18 June 1887 in Poiwan village (now in Aurangabad district, Bihar) to Visveshwar Dayal Singh in a Rajput family, Anugrah Narayan Sinha displayed patriotism from a young age. A brilliant student, he completed his M.A. in History from Calcutta University in 1914 and briefly taught at T.N.B. College, Bhagalpur. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, he left his promising legal career in 1917 to join the Champaran Satyagraha – Gandhi's first major civil disobedience movement in India. This marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to non-violent struggle. Sinha played key roles in the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement (imprisoned for 15 months, 1933–34), and Quit India Movement (imprisoned in Hazaribagh Jail till 1944). He also led relief work during the devastating 1934 Bihar-Nepal earthquake. After independence, on 2 April 1946, he became the first Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister of Bihar under Chief Minister Sri Krishna Sinha – a partnership that became legendary for its unity and dedication. He continued in these roles until his death on 5 July 1957. Important Note: Anugrah Narayan Sinha never became Chief Minister (CM) of Bihar. He served continuously as Deputy CM and Finance Minister (1946–1957), handling crucial portfolios like Finance, Labour, Local Self-Government, Public Works, Health, and Agriculture. Together with Sri Krishna Sinha, they laid the foundation for modern Bihar, making it one of the best-governed states during the first Five-Year Plan. His son, Satyendra Narayan Sinha, also became Chief Minister of Bihar, continuing the family legacy of public service. Dr. Sinha was a member of the Constituent Assembly and led Indian delegations abroad. He is remembered as a true Gandhian who combined simplicity, integrity, and visionary administration. Legacy: Commemorative stamps, statues, and school curricula continue to honor this giant of Bihar. His life inspires generations to serve the nation selflessly. “Bihar Vibhuti” lives on in the hearts of every Bihari.