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The Beginning of Punjabi Nationalism

A Heritage Book by Rai Bahadur Mul Raj (1855-1945)

Autobiography of Dr. Rabinder Nath's Great-Great-Grandfather - Founder of Punjab National Bank, Arya Samaj Leader, and Pioneer of Indian Nationalism

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About the Book

"The Beginning of Punjabi Nationalism" is a remarkable book written by Dr. Upender Nath about the life and times of Rai Bahadur Mul Raj, a towering figure in India's freedom movement and social reform. The book is based on Rai Bahadur Mul Raj's own accounts and memoirs.

Originally dictated in the 1930s to his grandson Dr. Upender Nath (Royal Surgeon to the Nizam of Hyderabad), this extraordinary document captures firsthand accounts of pivotal moments in Indian history - from the founding of the Arya Samaj to the establishment of Punjab National Bank, from the birth of the D.A.V. College movement to the early days of the Indian National Congress.

First published in 1975 by the Vishveshvaranand Vedic Research Institute (V.V.R.I.) in Hoshiarpur, the book was lovingly relaunched in 2016 by the Dr. Rabinder Nath Foundation as its inaugural initiative. This relaunch marked not just the preservation of a family heirloom, but the revival of a crucial historical document that fills significant gaps in the history of Punjabi nationalism and India's freedom struggle.

Publication History

1930s

Dictated by Rai Bahadur Mul Raj to his grandson Dr. Upender Nath in Lahore

1975

First published by V.V.R.I. Vedic Research Institute, Hoshiarpur

2016

Relaunched by Dr. Rabinder Nath Foundation with new binding (red cover with brown paper folding)

"Unbiased scholars will reconstruct the history of Arya Samaj on the basis of this autobiography."

- Acharya Vishva Bandhu, Founder of V.V.R.I.

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About This Edition

Originally published: 1975 by V.V.R.I. Hoshiarpur

Relaunched: 2016 by DRNF

Digitized: 2025, freely available for research

400 pages | 50 MB

Freely available for educational and research purposes

About Rai Bahadur Mul Raj

A self-made scholar, social reformer, and nation builder who shaped modern India

1855-1878

Early Life & Academic Excellence

Born in 1855 in Ludhiana, Punjab, Mul Raj rose from humble beginnings to become the first Punjabi to earn an M.A. degree from Calcutta University (1874). He was awarded the prestigious Premchand Roychand Scholarship, the highest academic distinction in India at that time. A self-made individual, he lived entirely on scholarships, demonstrating exceptional determination and brilliance.

1877

Meeting Swami Dayanand & Birth of Arya Samaj

In 1877, Mul Raj met Swami Dayanand Saraswati, a meeting that would change the course of his life and Indian history. He became the founding member and first president of Arya Samaj Lahore, drafted its constitution (Upaniyamas) and the famous Ten Principles. He advocated for an inclusive, broad-based reform movement that welcomed all seekers of truth, not limiting it to narrow philosophical doctrines.

1879-1912

Government Service

Appointed Extra Assistant Commissioner in 1879, Mul Raj became the first Punjabi to hold this prestigious position. He rose to District and Sessions Judge, serving with distinction for 32 years. This insider position in colonial administration gave him unique insights into British governance, which he later used to advocate for Indian self-governance and institutional development.

Historical Context: India in Mul Raj's Era (1855-1945)

90 years that transformed a nation - from British annexation to the eve of independence

1849-1857

Birth into Colonial Punjab

Born just 3 years after the British annexation of Punjab (1849), Mul Raj entered a world transformed by conquest. The 1857 Sepoy Mutiny erupted when he was just a toddler - his family fled to Hardwar to escape the violence. This early experience of displacement would shape his understanding of colonial power and native resistance.

1858-1880s

British Raj at Its Peak

Coming of age during the height of the British Raj, Mul Raj witnessed the consolidation of colonial rule. Educational reforms introduced English education, sparking intense debates about cultural identity. The rise of social reform movements like Brahmo Samaj (1828) and Arya Samaj (1875) challenged both orthodox Hinduism and British cultural dominance.

1885

Birth of Indian National Congress

The founding of the Indian National Congress marked the beginning of organized political nationalism. Mul Raj would later draft the first constitution for the Congress in 1893, bridging social reform movements with political activism.

1905-1918

Swadeshi Movement & World War I

The Swadeshi movement gained national prominence (though Mul Raj had started his own Swadeshi initiatives in 1893). World War I brought economic hardship to India while also awakening new demands for self-governance. Indians who fought for the Empire began questioning why they couldn't govern themselves.

1919-1930s

Rise of Gandhi & Mass Nationalism

Gandhi's Non-Cooperation Movement (1920) and subsequent campaigns transformed Indian nationalism into a mass movement. The growing independence movement built upon the institutional foundations that pioneers like Mul Raj had established decades earlier.

1940-1945

World War II & Partition Preparations

Mul Raj's final years coincided with World War II and the accelerating negotiations for independence. He died in 1945 at age 90, just two years before Partition would tear apart the Punjab he had worked his entire life to build. He never witnessed the tragic division of his homeland.

A Life Spanning Eras

Born in Colonial Conquest

Entered a world where Punjab had just been annexed (1849) and the great uprising (1857) erupted in his childhood

Educated in the Renaissance

Came of age during the Indian Renaissance - when social reform movements challenged both tradition and colonialism

Built Institutions for Freedom

Created D.A.V. College, Punjab National Bank, and Swadeshi organizations that became foundations for independence

Died on the Eve of Freedom

Passed away in 1945, witnessing the inevitability of independence but spared the trauma of Partition (1947)

The Arya Samaj Movement: A Revolutionary Reform

"The first institution in India that institutionalized the Indian identity"

Founded 1875

Swami Dayanand Saraswati established Arya Samaj in Bombay, challenging both orthodox Hinduism and British cultural dominance

Vedas & Modern Science

Revolutionary approach: the Vedas contain the seeds of modern science, mathematics, and rational thought

Social Reform

Opposed caste discrimination, child marriage, and untouchability. Promoted women's education and widow remarriage

Foundation for Nationalism

Created organizational structures and identity frameworks that fueled Indian nationalism and the freedom movement

Mul Raj's Role in Arya Samaj

1877

The Transformative Meeting

In 1877, Mul Raj met Swami Dayanand Saraswati in Lahore - a meeting that would change both his life and Indian history. Immediately drawn to the Swami's vision, he became a founding member of Arya Samaj Lahore and was elected its first president.

1877-1878

Constitutional Architect

Mul Raj drafted the Ten Principles (Niyamas) - the core articles of faith - and the Upaniyamas (constitution) that governed Arya Samaj operations. His legal and administrative expertise shaped the movement's organizational structure.

1880s-1890s

The Great Split

The movement split into two factions: the College Section (progressive, favoring modern education with Vedic values) and the Gurukul Section (traditional, favoring Vedic-only education). Mul Raj aligned with the College Section, leading to the founding of D.A.V. College Trust.

Later Years

The Critique & Parting

In his later years, Mul Raj became critical of the Arya Samaj's direction. He felt it had become too rigid, dogmatic, and narrow - losing the inclusive, truth-seeking spirit that Swami Dayanand intended. He advocated for an organization that welcomed all seekers of truth, regardless of philosophical beliefs.

"If Swami Dayanand had introduced philosophical questions, doctrines and theories into the articles of faith of the Arya Samaj, he would certainly have limited the number of men who could have entered it. His vision was broad-based and inclusive - a movement for all truth-seekers."

- Rai Bahadur Mul Raj, on the original inclusive vision of Arya Samaj

Mul Raj's Vision

Inclusive & Progressive: Broad-based reform welcoming all seekers. Synthesis of Eastern wisdom and Western science. Focus on practical social reform over theological debate.

His Contributions

Organizational Architect: Drafted constitution and principles. First president of Lahore chapter. Founded D.A.V. College network. Bridged reform and nationalism.

The Conflict

Growing Rigidity: Movement became dogmatic and narrow. Lost inclusive spirit. Mul Raj eventually distanced himself. Advocated for return to original vision.

The D.A.V. College Movement: Bridging Tradition & Modernity

From one college in 1886 to 900+ institutions educating millions today

The Birth of D.A.V. (Dayanand Anglo-Vedic)

In 1886, Mul Raj and his colleagues in the Arya Samaj College Section founded the D.A.V. College Trust and Managing Society with a revolutionary vision: education that combined Western learning with Vedic values.

This was not merely compromise, but synthesis - creating institutions where students could study English literature and Sanskrit, physics and Vedic mathematics, chemistry and Ayurveda. The goal was to produce educated Indians who were neither completely Westernized nor trapped in tradition, but confident in both worlds.

1886: Foundation

D.A.V. College established in Lahore with Mahatma Hans Raj as first headmaster. Mul Raj served as founding member and key architect.

Revolutionary Curriculum

Combined Sanskrit/Vedic studies + English language + Modern sciences. Students learned both Ramayana and Shakespeare, both Vedic hymns and Newton's laws.

Network Expansion

Quickly spread across Punjab and beyond. Created model for nationalist education that others replicated. Built infrastructure for intellectual resistance.

Notable Alumni

Produced generations of freedom fighters, scholars, and nation-builders. Students became leaders in India's independence movement.

Philosophy

Mul Raj's Educational Vision

  • Cultural Confidence: Students should be proud of Indian heritage while embracing modern knowledge
  • Practical Skills: Education must prepare students for modern careers and economic self-reliance
  • Technical Focus: Emphasized science, mathematics, and technical training alongside humanities
  • Moral Foundation: Vedic ethics as the moral compass for modern life
Key Figures

The Founders & Leaders

Mahatma Hans Raj
First headmaster, dedicated his life to D.A.V.
Lala Lajpat Rai
Student, teacher, and supporter - "Punjab Kesari"
Rai Bahadur Mul Raj
Founding member, curriculum designer, financial supporter

D.A.V. Today: A Living Legacy

900+ Institutions

Schools and colleges across India and abroad, from primary schools to professional colleges

Millions of Students

Educating students from all backgrounds, continuing the mission of accessible, quality education

Global Reach

D.A.V. institutions now operate internationally, spreading the vision of synthesis education worldwide

Excellence in Education

Consistently ranked among India's best schools, producing scholars, professionals, and leaders

"Education is the foundation of national strength. We must create institutions that produce Indians who are confident in their heritage yet capable of engaging with the modern world."

- Philosophy behind D.A.V. College Movement

Punjab National Bank: The Foundation Story

Creating India's first truly Indian bank - a vision of economic self-reliance

The Context: Indians Struggling with Foreign Banks (1891)

In the late 19th century, all major banks in India were British-controlled: Bank of Bengal, Bank of Bombay, Bank of Madras. Indian businessmen and professionals faced discrimination, unfavorable terms, and limited access to credit. The banking system served colonial interests, not Indian development.

Mul Raj recognized that economic independence was impossible without financial institutions controlled by Indians. In daily conversations with like-minded reformers, he began building consensus for a radical idea: a national bank owned, operated, and controlled by Indians.

1891-1893

Daily Conversations & Consensus Building

Mul Raj engaged in daily conversations with key collaborators: Lala Bulaki Ram Shastri, Sardar Dayal Singh Majithia, Lala Lai Chand, and others. These meetings, often informal but intense, slowly built the vision and practical plans for an Indian-controlled bank.

1894

Formal Establishment

On May 19, 1894, Punjab National Bank was formally registered in Lahore with a capital of Rs. 2 lakhs. The founders created an iconic cheque design featuring the five rivers of Punjab, mountain peaks representing the Himalayas, and an image of goddess Lakshmi - symbolizing prosperity rooted in Indian identity.

Mul Raj's Symbolic Support

Couldn't Join Formally - But Supported Passionately

As a government servant (Extra Assistant Commissioner), Mul Raj was prohibited from formally joining the bank's board. However, he made a powerful symbolic gesture: he withdrew all his personal funds from the British-controlled Bank of Bengal and deposited them in Punjab National Bank, demonstrating his confidence and commitment.

After 1912

Director After Retirement

After retiring from government service in 1912, Mul Raj finally joined the board of Punjab National Bank as a Director, bringing his administrative expertise and reformist vision to the institution he had helped create.

Later Conflict

Removal from Board

Eventually, Mul Raj was removed from the PNB board due to conflicts over what he called "vagaries" and autocratic tendencies among the management. True to his character, he opposed practices he believed deviated from the bank's founding principles, even when it cost him his position.

Key Collaborators

  • Lala Bulaki Ram Shastri
  • Sardar Dayal Singh Majithia
  • Lala Lai Chand
  • Rai Bahadur Mul Raj (conceiver & architect)

Iconic Cheque Design

  • Five rivers of Punjab
  • Mountain peaks (Himalayas)
  • Goddess Lakshmi (prosperity)
  • Symbolized Indian identity & values

Revolutionary Vision

  • First Indian-controlled national bank
  • Challenged British banking monopoly
  • Served Indian business interests
  • Model for economic nationalism

Punjab National Bank Today

Major Public Sector Bank

One of India's largest public sector banks with thousands of branches nationwide

Serving Millions

Provides banking services to millions of Indians, from small businesses to large corporations

130+ Years of History

From 1894 to today - witnessing and shaping India's economic transformation

2018 Nirav Modi Scandal

The irony: An institution founded on integrity faced India's largest banking fraud (₹14,000 crores). A reminder that maintaining founding principles requires constant vigilance.

"Without control over our own financial institutions, we cannot achieve true economic independence. A nation must control its own capital to control its own destiny."

- The vision behind Punjab National Bank's founding

Swadeshi Movement: 30 Years Before Gandhi

Economic nationalism in 1893 - a prescient vision Gandhi would later amplify

The Timeline: Who Started What When?

1893: Mul Raj

Swadeshi Pracharini Sabha founded in Lahore. Organized promotion of Indian goods and economic self-reliance.

1896: Weekly Bulletin

"Swadeshi Vastu Pracharak" - published information about Indian manufacturers, products, and industries.

1920s: Gandhi

Gandhi's Swadeshi became a mass movement - building on foundations laid decades earlier by pioneers like Mul Raj.

1870s

Early Advocacy: Ludhiana Cloth

As early as the 1870s, Mul Raj promoted Ludhiana cloth made by Muslim weavers, always wearing Swadeshi clothing himself. This wasn't just personal choice - it was political statement and practical demonstration.

1893

Swadeshi Pracharini Sabha

Formally established the Swadeshi Pracharini Sabha with clear objectives: promote Indian goods, reduce dependence on foreign (British) products, create demand for indigenous industries, and build economic self-reliance as foundation for political independence.

1896

Information Infrastructure

Published "Swadeshi Vastu Pracharak" - a weekly bulletin containing detailed information about Indian manufacturers, where to buy Indian goods, quality comparisons, and pricing. Also established a library with comprehensive information about Indian industries.

Personal Investments

Industrial Ventures

Put his money where his principles were: invested in glass factory, pencil factory, chemical plant, and other indigenous industries. These weren't just investments - they were acts of nation-building.

Personal Commitment

Always wore Swadeshi clothing (Ludhiana cloth). Made it a point of honor and visibility. Led by example, not just words.

Industrial Support

Invested in glass, pencil, and chemical factories. Promoted indigenous manufacturing. Created jobs and industries.

Information Network

Weekly bulletin with manufacturer information. Library of Indian industry data. Made Swadeshi practical and accessible.

Philosophy

Economic self-reliance = True independence. Political freedom meaningless without economic freedom. Nation must control its production.

"Economic independence is the foundation of political independence. We cannot be truly free while we depend on foreign goods for our daily needs. Swadeshi is not merely buying Indian - it is building India."

- Rai Bahadur Mul Raj's philosophy of economic nationalism (1890s)

A Prescient Vision

Mul Raj understood in the 1890s what would become the cornerstone of Gandhi's movement in the 1920s: that economic dependence perpetuates political subjugation. His Swadeshi work was not preparation for future freedom movements - it was a freedom movement, fighting on the economic front decades before others recognized its importance.

When Gandhi later made khadi and Swadeshi central to the independence struggle, he was amplifying and mass-mobilizing a vision that pioneers like Mul Raj had been quietly building for over thirty years. The infrastructure, philosophy, and practical models were already in place - Gandhi's genius was making it a mass movement.

The Tribune & Media Advocacy

Using journalism as a tool for social reform and nation-building

The Need for an Indian Voice

In the late 19th century, most newspapers in India were either British-controlled or served British interests. Mul Raj recognized that social reform and nationalist aspirations needed media platforms where Indians could speak freely and advocate for their causes.

Together with Sardar Dyal Singh Majithia, a wealthy philanthropist and fellow reformer, Mul Raj helped establish The Tribune in Lahore - a newspaper that would become one of the most influential voices in pre-independence India.

Collaboration

Partnership with Sardar Dyal Singh Majithia

Mul Raj worked closely with Sardar Dyal Singh Majithia, who provided the financial resources and vision for an independent newspaper. Together, they created The Tribune as a platform for reform advocacy and nationalist discourse.

Punjab University Campaign

Advocating for Punjab University

Mul Raj used The Tribune to publish extensive articles advocating for the establishment of Punjab University. He collaborated with Babu Yogendra Chandra Bose on these articles, which were later compiled into a book. Their media campaign helped create public pressure for the university's establishment.

Editorial Independence

Standing for Press Freedom

When Sardar Dyal Singh Majithia was pressured about The Tribune's editorial positions, he demonstrated remarkable courage: he resigned from the Punjab University Senate rather than compromise the newspaper's editorial independence. This act reinforced The Tribune's reputation as an independent voice.

Reform Advocacy

Platform for Social Reform

Beyond university advocacy, Mul Raj used The Tribune to write about educational reform, social issues, economic development, and nationalist aspirations. The newspaper became a crucial platform for the reform movement.

Mul Raj's Contributions

  • Wrote extensively on education reform
  • Advocated for Punjab University establishment
  • Published articles on social issues
  • Articles compiled into book

Key Collaborators

  • Sardar Dyal Singh Majithia (founder/financier)
  • Babu Yogendra Chandra Bose (co-writer)
  • Various reform-minded journalists
  • Network of social reformers

Editorial Independence

  • Maintained independent editorial voice
  • Defended press freedom
  • Sardar resigned Senate seat for newspaper
  • Model for nationalist journalism

The Tribune Today

Major Indian Newspaper

The Tribune continues to this day as one of India's major English-language newspapers, publishing from Chandigarh

140+ Years of Journalism

From pre-independence advocacy to modern journalism, maintaining its legacy of independent reporting

Respected Voice

Continues to be respected for balanced journalism and coverage of Punjab and North India

"A free press is essential for a free people. We must have newspapers where Indians can speak freely, advocate for reforms, and envision a better future without fear of British censorship or colonial interests."

- The philosophy behind The Tribune's founding

Major Achievements & Contributions

Education Reform

  • Founded D.A.V. (Dayanand Anglo-Vedic) College Trust and Managing Society in 1878
  • Pioneered modern education combining Western learning with Vedic values
  • Testified before Hunter Commission on Education (1882)
  • Advocated for Punjab University establishment through The Tribune
  • Mentor to Lala Lajpat Rai, Mahatma Hans Raj, and other freedom fighters

Banking & Finance

  • Conceived and founded Punjab National Bank (1891-1894)
  • First national bank controlled by Indians, not British
  • Co-founded Bharat Insurance Company (1896)
  • Exposed banking corruption during 1913-14 crisis through Arya Patrika
  • Created financial institutions for economic self-reliance

Swadeshi Movement

  • Started Swadeshi Pracharini Sabha in 1893 - 30 years before Gandhi!
  • Published "Swadeshi Vastu Pracharak" weekly bulletin (1896)
  • Promoted use of Indian-made goods and indigenous industries
  • Pioneered economic nationalism and self-reliance
  • Integrated economic and political freedom movements

Journalism & Publications

  • Instrumental in founding The Tribune newspaper with Sardar Dyal Singh Majithia
  • Used media to advocate for educational and social reforms
  • Contributed extensively to Arya Patrika
  • Wrote influential articles on national development
  • Published this autobiography documenting historic events

Cultural Revival

  • Helped establish Gandharva Maha-vidyalaya music school in Lahore (1901)
  • Revived interest in classical Indian music in Punjab
  • Promoted Ayurveda and established Mahesh Ayurvedic Pharmacy (1895)
  • Advocated for synthesis of Eastern wisdom and Western science
  • Preserved cultural heritage amid colonial influence

Indian National Congress

  • Drafted first constitution for Indian National Congress (1893)
  • Principles later adopted in formal INC constitution
  • Advocated for industrial development alongside political reform
  • Met with Moti Lal Nehru and encouraged Jawaharlal Nehru to enter politics
  • Bridged intellectual, social, and political reform movements

Notable Connections

Mul Raj worked alongside the greatest minds and leaders of his era

Swami Dayanand Saraswati
Founder of Arya Samaj
Madam Blavatsky & Colonel Olcott
Theosophical Society
Lala Lajpat Rai
Freedom Fighter, "Punjab Kesari"
Sardar Dyal Singh Majithia
Philanthropist, Tribune Founder
Moti Lal Nehru
Congress Leader, Lawyer
Jawaharlal Nehru
First Prime Minister of India
Master Tara Singh
Sikh Leader
Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya
Educator, Social Reformer
1912-1945

Later Years & Lasting Legacy

After retiring in 1912, Mul Raj settled in his "Willows" bungalow in Lahore, where he continued his advocacy work as Vice-President of Paropakarini Sabha. He championed an inclusive vision for the Arya Samaj and helped found the Vishveshvaranand Vedic Research Institute (VVRI), which continues his work today. He passed away in 1945 at the age of 90, having witnessed and shaped nearly a century of Indian transformation.

Family Lineage

A legacy of service spanning five generations

Rai Bahadur Mul Raj (1855-1945)

Founder of Punjab National Bank, D.A.V. College, Arya Samaj Leader, Extra Assistant Commissioner

Dr. Prem Nath

Relocated to Hyderabad after Partition (1947). His brother Air Marshal Ajit Nath helped evacuate the family from Lahore via airlift during the Partition violence.

Dr. Upender Nath

Royal Surgeon to the Nizam of Hyderabad. Co-authored and edited "The Beginning of Punjabi Nationalism" - recording his grandfather's dictated autobiography in the 1930s.

Dr. Rabinder Nath

Dental Surgeon, Social Worker, and Author. Published 7+ books. The Dr. Rabinder Nath Foundation is named in his honor to continue his legacy of community service.

Abhishek Nath

Founder of Dr. Rabinder Nath Foundation. Discovered the book among his father's belongings and relaunched it in 2016, carrying forward the family's tradition of service through free chai counters and community programs.

Partition & Relocation

During the 1947 Partition, the family had to flee Lahore under tragic circumstances. Air Marshal Ajit Nath (brother of Dr. Prem Nath) arranged for the family's evacuation via airlift during the violence and chaos. They relocated to Hyderabad, where they received a small plot of land in the Gunfoundry area, Basheerbagh. This became the foundation for their new life in independent India, continuing their tradition of service in their adopted city.

The Partition Story: From Lahore to Hyderabad

How the holocaust of 1947 scattered a family, delayed a book for 30 years, and nearly erased a legacy

Life in Lahore Before Partition

"Willows" - A Center of Ideas

In 1905, Rai Bahadur Mul Raj purchased a bungalow in Lahore that he named "Willows." This wasn't just a family home - it became an active intellectual and cultural center where the brightest minds of Punjab gathered. Here, the future of India was debated, institutions were conceived, and movements were born.

Goma Devi's Social Work

Mul Raj's wife ran a Widows Home and Orphanage, providing shelter and education to those society had abandoned. Her compassionate work embodied the family's commitment to service.

Thriving Arya Samaj

The Lahore Arya Samaj, founded and led by Mul Raj, was at the heart of Punjab's religious and social reform movement, attracting thousands to its inclusive vision.

V.V.R.I. Institute

The Vishveshvaranand Vedic Research Institute operated actively, preserving Sanskrit scholarship and Vedic knowledge while promoting modern research methods.

Dr. Prem Nath's Practice

Mul Raj's son ran a successful dental practice in Lahore, serving the city's elite and building strong community connections across religious lines.

Dr. Upender Nath Growing Up

Mul Raj's grandson grew up immersed in this environment of intellectual ferment and social service, eventually becoming Royal Surgeon to the Nizam of Hyderabad.

Center of Nationalism

Punjab was the beating heart of Indian nationalism - from the Arya Samaj to the Congress, from Punjab National Bank to the Swadeshi movement.

Large Family Lands

The family owned significant property and lands in Punjab, accumulated through generations of service and success - wealth built on merit and hard work.

Deep Community Networks

Connections spanned across religions, regions, and institutions - from government officials to freedom fighters, from scholars to businessmen.

This was a life of prosperity, purpose, and deep roots - a family at the center of Punjab's transformation. All of it would be left behind in a single night.

The Narrow Escape (1947)

The Night That Changed Everything

August 1947. The subcontinent was being torn apart. In Lahore, communal violence had reached horrifying levels. Dr. Prem Nath (Mul Raj's son) and his family were in grave danger.

The Conspiracy: Muslim neighbors, aware of the family's wealth and property, were plotting to kill them and seize their assets. In the chaos of Partition, such murders were common - and often went unpunished.

But fate intervened. Dr. Prem Nath overheard the conspiracy. He had hours, not days. In desperation, he called his brother - Air Marshal Ajit Nath, who was serving in the Indian Armed Forces.

"We have one night. Get everyone out."

Air Marshal Ajit Nath acted with military precision. Using his position and contacts, he arranged for an emergency airlift evacuation. Through the night, family members were quietly gathered and rushed to the airfield.

Dawn broke. As the plane lifted off from Lahore, the family looked down at the city that had been their home for generations. Below them lay "Willows," the V.V.R.I. Institute, their lands, their wealth, their history. They would never return.

They left with nothing but their lives.

"A fortunate escape that many during that time did not have."

Everything Lost

  • "Willows" bungalow seized
  • All family lands abandoned
  • Generations of accumulated wealth gone
  • Personal belongings left behind
  • Community connections severed

What They Saved

  • Their lives - the most precious gift
  • Family unity (mostly intact)
  • Education and professional skills
  • The manuscript (somehow survived)
  • Spirit of service and values

The Family Scattered

The airlift didn't reunite the family - it scattered them further. Some went to Delhi, where Air Marshal Ajit Nath could protect them. Others, including Dr. Prem Nath, headed to Hyderabad, drawn by a connection to the Nizam as a potential royal surgeon position.

A family that had lived together in Lahore for generations was now split across India, starting over in cities where they knew no one.

Arrival in Hyderabad: Starting from Zero

Why Hyderabad?

Dr. Prem Nath had a connection to the Nizam of Hyderabad through potential work as a royal surgeon. This slender thread pulled them southward to a city they had never lived in, to start a life from scratch.

A Small Plot of Land

Arrived with "nothing from Punjab" and received a small plot in Gunfoundry area, King Kothi Road, Basheerbagh - "almost new Hyderabad back then," now the eastern-central part of the city.

Tragedy Strikes Again

Dr. Prem Nath passed away shortly after arrival in Hyderabad, leaving the family in a precarious position in an unfamiliar city with no established networks.

Dr. Upender Nath Rebuilds

At middle age, Dr. Upender Nath rebuilt everything from scratch - establishing his medical practice, becoming Royal Surgeon to the Nizam, and raising his family in their adopted city.

Delhi Connection Maintained

Close ties were maintained with Air Marshal Ajit Nath and the Delhi branch of the family, providing emotional support and coordination across the scattered generations.

They arrived with only their medical skills and determination. What they built in Hyderabad stands as testament to resilience - but the cost was the gradual fading of their Punjab heritage.

The Lost Manuscript (1942-1975)

1942
Manuscript Completed

In Lahore, Dr. Upender Nath finishes recording his grandfather's dictated autobiography. The manuscript represents decades of memories spanning the birth of modern Indian nationalism.

1945
Mul Raj Passes Away

Rai Bahadur Mul Raj dies at age 90, having witnessed and shaped the transformation of Punjab from British rule to the cusp of independence. His story remains unpublished.

1947 - PARTITION
The Holocaust That Delayed Everything

"The holocaust which preceded and followed the Partition" - as described in the book's foreword - destroyed more than lives and property. It shattered the networks that would have published this book.

  • The manuscript's fate uncertain - evacuated with family or survived separately?
  • Publication plans destroyed
  • Family scattered - no coordination possible
  • Focus shifted to survival, not history
  • Networks broken, relatives lost contact

"The book that documented the building of India was delayed by the tragedy that divided it."

1947-1973
26 Years of Silence

The manuscript gathers dust for over a quarter century. The family is rebuilding in Hyderabad, focus on survival and stability rather than historical preservation. The younger generation, born in Hyderabad, has no connection to Lahore or the stories in the book.

In these years, the generational disconnect deepened. The heritage was carried as a label - "Punjabi pride" - but not as understanding. The book sat forgotten on a shelf somewhere between Hyderabad and Delhi.

1973
Acharya Vishva Bandhu Takes Up Editing

A scholar and friend of the family, Acharya Vishva Bandhu commits to editing the manuscript, writing in the foreword:

"To fulfil my spiritual obligation towards one who is no more..."

Air Marshal Ajit Nath coordinates the editing process with military discipline, bringing together contributions from the Delhi and Hyderabad branches.

1975
Finally Published

The book is published by the Vishveshvaranand Vedic Research Institute in Hoshiarpur - the very institute Mul Raj helped establish.

The Numbers Tell the Story:

  • 30 years after Mul Raj's death
  • 33 years after manuscript completion
  • 28 years after Partition scattered the family

The foreword explicitly captures the delay caused by "the holocaust which preceded and followed the Partition."

Three Generations of Silence (1975-2016)

Why Was the Book Forgotten?

After the 1975 publication, "Nobody really read this book" - not for another 41 years.

Eight Reasons for the Family Disconnect

1. Partition Trauma

The horror of 1947 overshadowed everything else. Survival and rebuilding took precedence over intellectual heritage. The trauma was too fresh, too painful.

2. Financial Rebuilding

Starting from zero in Hyderabad meant focus on financial stability, not historical reflection. Dr. Upender Nath had to rebuild a practice, establish connections, provide for his family.

3. Distance from Punjab

Hyderabad wasn't Lahore. The daily reminders of heritage were gone. The book spoke of a Punjab they could no longer visit, memories too painful to revisit.

4. Generational Disconnect

Dr. Rabinder Nath (born 1930s) grew up in Hyderabad, not Lahore. His children were even further removed. The Punjab of the book was foreign to them.

5. Language Barriers

Punjabi faded in Hyderabad. English, Telugu, and Hindi became dominant. The cultural context of the book - steeped in Punjab references - became harder to parse.

6. Difficult to Parse

The book was "badly written" - an autobiography dictated by a 90-year-old and transcribed without modern editing. It required historical context and patience to understand.

7. Simpler Narratives

"You have blue blood in your veins, you're Punjabi" - this simple identity label replaced the complex institutional and philosophical heritage the book documented.

8. Missing Context

The book required "connection required to read the book" - understanding of Arya Samaj, Punjab nationalism, institutional building. That context was lost.

"You have blue blood in your veins, you're Punjabi" - but what did that actually mean?

The heritage was carried as a label, not as understanding.

What Was Lost

  • Deep understanding of Arya Samaj's role in nationalism - not just that it existed, but HOW it shaped movements
  • Punjab National Bank founding story - the vision behind India's first Swadeshi bank
  • Swadeshi movement origins - starting in 1893, 30 years before Gandhi popularized it
  • Family's role as architects, not spectators - they didn't just witness history, they built it
  • Intellectual tradition - how ideas were debated, tested, implemented
  • Network connections - the relationships that built institutions
  • Understanding of HOW institutions were built, not just THAT they existed

The current generation knows THAT Punjab National Bank was founded, but not WHY or HOW. They know THAT D.A.V. schools exist, but not the vision behind them. They know THAT they have heritage, but not what principles guided it.

The Rediscovery (2016)

After Dr. Rabinder Nath's Death

Abhishek Nath was going through his father's books after his passing - a son's difficult duty, sorting through a lifetime of collected wisdom. Among the medical texts and poetry collections, he found a red-covered, old-bound book.

He remembered how his father revered Mul Raj as an icon - the ancestor who built institutions, who shaped history. Dr. Rabinder Nath had a "Punjabi sher spirit with equally laid back attitude," but when he spoke of Mul Raj, there was awe in his voice.

The first page read: "Published by V.V.R.I. Vedic Institute, Hoshiarpur."

The institute still existed. The book had survived. But had the story?

The Journey to Hoshiarpur

First Visit to Punjab

Abhishek decided to visit Hoshiarpur - a place he'd never been, the land his ancestors fled. After 70 years, a descendent was returning to the institute Mul Raj helped build.

V.V.R.I. Still Operating

The Vishveshvaranand Vedic Research Institute was still active, still preserving Sanskrit scholarship, still carrying forward Mul Raj's vision of modern Vedic research.

Staff in Awe

"A descendent of the institute's founder" - the staff couldn't believe it. A descendent of the person who set up the institutions world as they know it had returned.

Freshly Pressed Copy

They gave him a freshly pressed copy in the old bind from their printing press - a physical connection to heritage, printed at the place his ancestor established.

After 70 years, the family had returned to Punjab. It was an emotional homecoming to a place that was no longer home.

The Foundation Launch

Inspired by this rediscovery, Abhishek launched the Dr. Rabinder Nath Foundation to continue his family's tradition of service. The book relaunch became the FIRST initiative of the foundation.

February 13, 2016 - The book launch event in Hyderabad. It was symbolic: from Punjab to Hyderabad, from past to present, from institutional building to community service.

The foundation continues the legacy through free chai counters - a different scale than founding banks, but the same spirit of service.

But that's the last we heard about the book after it was "relaunched."

Until now.

Reflections: What Partition Took Away

The holocaust that delayed this book's publication for years did more than scatter families - it fractured the continuity of thought and purpose that Mul Raj's generation had carefully constructed. In the rush to rebuild and move forward, the deeper heritage of ideas was overshadowed by simpler narratives of identity and belonging.

The Current Generation's Challenge

Today's generation carries the weight of heritage without understanding its substance. They know they're "Punjabi," they know they have "blue blood," but the connection to what that actually means has been severed.

The Disconnect Despite Heritage
  • They know THAT Punjab National Bank was founded, but not WHY or HOW
  • They know THAT D.A.V. schools exist, but not the vision behind them
  • They know THAT Swadeshi happened, but not that it started in 1893, 30 years before Gandhi
  • They know THAT they have heritage, but not what principles guided it

The heritage became a badge of pride rather than a guide for action. Identity replaced understanding.

Relevance Today

Swadeshi to Make in India

Economic nationalism didn't start with modern campaigns. Understanding the 1893 Swadeshi movement provides context for today's debates about self-reliance and globalization.

PNB Founding to Banking Integrity

When modern banks face scandals, understanding the founding vision of institutions like PNB - built to serve the nation, not extract from it - becomes crucial.

D.A.V. System to Education Reform

Today's education reform debates echo the original D.A.V. vision: accessible, value-based education that builds character while teaching skills.

Service Tradition to DRNF Work

From founding national banks to running free chai counters - the scale changes, but the principle remains: service to community without expectation of return.

The challenge for current and future generations is to understand not just WHAT their ancestors did, but HOW and WHY they did it - to carry forward principles, not just pride.

Family Tree: Before and After Partition

BEFORE PARTITION - Lahore (United Family)

Rai Bahadur Mul Raj (1855-1945)
Dr. Prem Nath
Son, Dentist
Dr. Upender Nath (grandson)
Air Marshal Ajit Nath
Son, Indian Armed Forces
Would save family in 1947
Other Siblings
Extended family across Punjab

A united family in Lahore - wealthy, connected, at the center of Punjab's transformation

PARTITION 1947

The holocaust that shattered everything

AFTER PARTITION - Scattered Across India

HYDERABAD BRANCH
Dr. Prem Nath
(arrived 1947, died shortly after)
Dr. Upender Nath
(rebuilt family, Royal Surgeon)
Dr. Rabinder Nath
(1930s-2015, Hyderabad-born)
Abhishek Nath
(Founder DRNF, rediscovered book 2016)
Current Generation
(Hyderabad-born, reconnecting with heritage)
DELHI BRANCH
Air Marshal Ajit Nath
(arranged airlift, hero of 1947)
His Children
(co-editors of 1975 book publication)
Subsequent Generations
(Connection maintained but weakened)

Connection maintained but weakened over generations

SCATTERED RELATIVES
London Branch:
Vishveshwar Nath's descendants
Other Parts of India:
Cousins, extended family

Most connections lost over time

The Human Cost

One Home → Three scattered branches

Strong Networks → Weak connections

Living Heritage → Forgotten book

Deep Understanding → Superficial pride

Yet Hope Remains

The book survived. The story survived. And now, through the Dr. Rabinder Nath Foundation, the spirit of service continues - connecting the Swadeshi movement of 1893 to free chai counters in 2024, proving that principles transcend tragedy and time.

The Book Relaunch (2016)

A heritage rediscovered and shared with the world

After Dr. Rabinder Nath passed away, his son Abhishek Nath found this precious book among his father's belongings. Realizing its historical significance, he embarked on a journey to honor both his father's memory and his ancestor's legacy.

In 2016, Abhishek visited the Vishveshvaranand Vedic Research Institute (V.V.R.I.) in Hoshiarpur, Punjab - the very institute his great-great-great-grandfather had helped establish. The staff at V.V.R.I. were in awe when they learned that a descendent of their founder had returned after all these years.

The book was reprinted with new binding featuring a distinctive red cover with brown paper folding, honoring the original while ensuring its preservation for future generations. The official launch event was held on February 13, 2016, in Hyderabad, marking the inaugural initiative of the Dr. Rabinder Nath Foundation.

Discovery

Found among Dr. Rabinder Nath's belongings after his passing

Reunion

Visit to V.V.R.I. Institute in Hoshiarpur reconnects family with heritage

Reprint

New edition with red cover and brown paper folding

Launch

February 13, 2016 - First initiative of DRNF

Book Launch Event Photos

View photos from the book launch event held in Hyderabad on February 13, 2016

View Event Gallery

Book Launch Event

Watch the coverage of the historic book relaunch ceremony

Book Launch Event Coverage - February 13, 2016, Hyderabad

Inside the Book

An in-depth look at the structure, content, and unique aspects of this historic autobiography

Book Structure & Format

Autobiography Format

Dictated as reminiscences to grandson Dr. Upender Nath in the 1930s, capturing authentic voice and firsthand memories spanning 90 years of Indian history.

Original Manuscript

Completed in Lahore, 1942. Edited by Acharya Dr. Vishva Bandhu Ji in 1973 "to fulfil my spiritual obligation" to preserve this crucial historical document.

Collaborative Effort

Further edited by Air Marshal Ajit Nath and associates. Published by V.V.R.I. Hoshiarpur in 1975, bringing together family and scholarly expertise.

2016 Relaunch

New binding with distinctive red cover and brown paper folding, preserving the original content while ensuring accessibility for modern readers.

Language & Content

Written in English with some Urdu pamphlets and letters included. Contains correspondence from Swami Dayanand, newspaper clippings, duty postings, and family tree.

Writing Style

Badly written with no timelines and grammatical errors, but BOLDLY WRITTEN with authentic voice. Chapters organized by career roles rather than chronological order.

Chapter Breakdown (Based on Career Roles)

Chapters organized around Mul Raj's various roles and contributions

Early Life and Education

1855-1878: From humble beginnings in Ludhiana to becoming the first Punjabi M.A. from Calcutta University.

Meeting Swami Dayanand & Arya Samaj

The transformative encounter that shaped his life's mission and India's religious reform movement.

My Career in Government Service

1879-1912: Three decades as Extra Assistant Commissioner, District Judge, navigating colonial administration.

The D.A.V. College Movement

Founding and growing the D.A.V. education network that revolutionized Indian education with Vedic values.

Banking and Insurance in Punjab

Conceiving Punjab National Bank and Bharat Insurance Company - institutions for economic independence.

The Swadeshi Movement

Pioneering economic nationalism 30 years before Gandhi, promoting Indian goods and self-reliance.

Indian National Congress & Political Reform

Drafting the first INC constitution and advocating for industrial development alongside political freedom.

Music Revival in Punjab

Establishing Gandharva Maha-vidyalaya and reviving classical Indian music traditions in colonial Punjab.

Ayurveda and Traditional Medicine

Promoting ancient medical systems and founding Mahesh Ayurvedic Pharmacy to preserve healing traditions.

Years of Retirement

1912-1945: Continued advocacy from "Willows" bungalow in Lahore, witnessing India's transformation and Partition.

Letters and Correspondence

Personal letters from Swami Dayanand, colonial officials, and freedom fighters - primary historical documents.

Key Topics Covered

A comprehensive chronicle of pivotal moments in Indian history

Arya Samaj founding and split

D.A.V. College establishment

Punjab National Bank creation

Bharat Insurance Company

1913-14 banking crisis

Swadeshi Pracharini Sabha

Tribune newspaper founding

Hunter Commission testimony (1882)

Indian National Congress constitution draft

Encounters with colonial officials

Jammu & Kashmir Maharaja incident

Meeting Madam Blavatsky & Colonel Olcott

Conversations with Nehrus

Cultural revival: music, Ayurveda

Social customs and reforms

Partition precursors

Notable Excerpts & Quotes

Powerful passages that capture the spirit of an era

"If Swami Dayanand had introduced philosophical questions, doctrines and theories into the articles of faith of the Arya Samaj, he would certainly have limited the number of men who could have entered it... For, the greater the number of men who can join together to revive the study of the Vedas and the worship of the Unincarnate God, the greater will be the good they can do to themselves and to humanity."

- Rai Bahadur Mul Raj, on Arya Samaj principles

"Historic changes have occurred in India since Mul Raj passed away, but his beliefs and ideas remain applicable to the contemporary scene in India today, and more so in Punjab after two partitions."

- From foreword about relevance

"The holocaust which preceded and followed the Partition of the country ruined and disrupted many Punjabi homes and families. Because of this, it took many years for the manuscript to receive attention and be published."

- About partition delay

"In the days to come unbiased scholars will reconstruct the history of Arya Samaj on the basis of this autobiography."

- Acharya Vishva Bandhu's testimony

Mul Raj became a "silent spectator of the petty bickerings of the power-hungry individuals" - showing his disillusionment with institutional politics while maintaining his commitment to service and reform.

- On becoming a "silent spectator"

"Ek Mola, do Rallia, chautha Thakur Datt; Charon pawe pirhi de charon chaurchapat"

- Punjabi saying: "One Mul Raj, two Rallia Rams and Thakur Datt – when the four of them put their hands to a thing, they would certainly shake things up" (during banking crisis exposure)

What's Unique About This Book

A rare historical document unlike any other

First-hand Arya Samaj Account

First-hand account of Arya Samaj founding from inner circle member. Founding president of Arya Samaj Lahore shares insider perspectives unavailable elsewhere.

Colonial Administration Insider View

Inside view of colonial administration by Indian officer - the first Punjabi Extra Assistant Commissioner reveals governance from within the system.

Punjab National Bank's True Story

Documents Punjab National Bank's actual founding story with details of vision, challenges, and triumph in creating Indian-controlled finance.

Swadeshi Movement Origins

Chronicles Swadeshi movement 30 years before Gandhi - revealing the true origins of economic nationalism in 1893.

INC Constitutional History

Provides Indian National Congress constitutional history - firsthand account of drafting the first INC constitution in 1893.

Personal Historical Interactions

Personal interactions with major historical figures - from Swami Dayanand to the Nehrus, Madam Blavatsky to Lala Lajpat Rai.

90-Year Witness to Transformation

Witness to transformation of Punjab (1855-1945) - spanning from British consolidation to the brink of independence.

Fills Research Gaps

Fills gaps in research about early Indian nationalism - provides primary source material for scholars studying this crucial period.

Family Partition Perspective

Family perspective on Partition impact - chronicles the human cost and disruption to Punjabi families during 1947.

Untold Revolutionary Stories

Silent about revolutionary activities "dear to his heart" (as noted by editor) - suggesting deeper involvement in freedom movement.

The Book's Journey

From dictation in Lahore to relaunch in Hyderabad

1930s

Dictation to Dr. Upender Nath

Mul Raj dictates his reminiscences to his grandson Dr. Upender Nath (Royal Surgeon to the Nizam) in Lahore, preserving memories spanning 90 years.

1942

Manuscript Completed

Original manuscript completed in Lahore, capturing firsthand accounts of India's transformation and the freedom movement.

1945

Mul Raj Passes Away

Rai Bahadur Mul Raj passes away at age 90, having witnessed nearly a century of Indian history from colonial rule to the brink of independence.

1947

Partition Disrupts Plans

The holocaust of Partition disrupts publication plans. The family flees Lahore via airlift arranged by Air Marshal Ajit Nath, relocating to Hyderabad.

1973

Edited by Acharya Vishva Bandhu

Acharya Dr. Vishva Bandhu Ji edits the manuscript "to fulfil my spiritual obligation" to preserve this crucial historical document.

1975

First Publication

Published by V.V.R.I. Hoshiarpur after final editing by Air Marshal Ajit Nath and associates, making this precious history available to scholars.

Post-1975

Scholarly Obscurity

The book remained relatively unknown outside scholarly circles, awaiting wider recognition of its historical significance.

2016

Rediscovery

Abhishek Nath rediscovers the book among his father Dr. Rabinder Nath's belongings after his passing, recognizing its historical value.

2016

Return to V.V.R.I.

Historic visit to V.V.R.I. in Hoshiarpur - "descendant of the founder returns" after decades, reconnecting family with heritage institution.

February 13, 2016

Book Relaunch

Official relaunch event in Hyderabad marks the first initiative of Dr. Rabinder Nath Foundation, with new binding featuring red cover and brown paper folding.

Today

Heritage Piece

The book serves as a heritage piece connecting the family to wider Indian history, inspiring continued service through the Foundation's community programs.

Key Themes of the Book

A comprehensive chronicle of India's transformation

Rise of Punjabi Nationalism

Arya Samaj Movement & Religious Reform

Swadeshi & Economic Self-Reliance

Education Reform & D.A.V. College Movement

Banking & Financial Institutions

Colonial Administration from Inside

Partition & Its Impact

Cultural Revival (Music, Ayurveda)

Balance Between Tradition & Modernity

Historical Significance

A primary source document that illuminates crucial gaps in Indian history

Arya Samaj History

Fills critical gaps in various research papers about the Arya Samaj movement. As a founding member and first president of Arya Samaj Lahore, Mul Raj provides insider accounts unavailable elsewhere.

Indian National Congress

First-hand account of the early Indian National Congress. Mul Raj drafted its first constitution in 1893, providing unique insights into the birth of India's freedom movement.

Punjab National Bank

Documents the founding of Punjab National Bank, the first Indian-controlled national bank. Chronicles the vision, challenges, and triumphs of creating indigenous financial institutions.

Swadeshi Movement Origins

Reveals that the Swadeshi movement began in 1893, three decades before Gandhi's campaigns. Mul Raj founded Swadeshi Pracharini Sabha and published weekly bulletins promoting Indian goods.

Colonial Administration

Provides rare insider view of colonial administration from the perspective of the first Punjabi Extra Assistant Commissioner. Shows governance from within the system.

Synthesis of Thought

Demonstrates the synthesis of Eastern and Western thought that characterized the Indian Renaissance. Shows how educated Indians navigated between tradition and modernity.

"If Swami Dayanand had introduced philosophical questions, doctrines and theories into the articles of faith of the Arya Samaj, he would certainly have limited the number of men who could have entered it..."

- Rai Bahadur Mul Raj, on the inclusive vision of Arya Samaj

About V.V.R.I. Institute

Vishveshvaranand Vedic Research Institute, Hoshiarpur

The Vishveshvaranand Vedic Research Institute (V.V.R.I.) was founded by Rai Bahadur Mul Raj and his colleagues to preserve and promote Vedic knowledge and Sanskrit learning.

Originally established in Lahore, the institute was formally re-established in Hoshiarpur in 1936 and continues to operate from Sadhu Ashram, Hoshiarpur, Punjab. The institute published "The Beginning of Punjabi Nationalism" in 1975 and maintains copies to this day.

V.V.R.I. continues its mission of Vedic research, Sanskrit scholarship, and preservation of India's intellectual heritage - a fitting tribute to its founder's vision of combining traditional wisdom with modern scholarship.

Vedic Research

Ongoing research and publication of Vedic texts and commentaries

Sanskrit Scholarship

Promotes Sanskrit learning and classical Indian literature

Heritage Preservation

Maintains manuscript collections and historical documents

Visit V.V.R.I. Institute

Learn more about the institute founded by Rai Bahadur Mul Raj

Visit Website

Legacy Today

The institutions and movements Mul Raj founded continue to shape India

Punjab National Bank

Still operates as one of India's major public sector banks, serving millions. Though facing modern challenges, PNB embodies Mul Raj's vision of Indian-controlled financial institutions supporting national development.

D.A.V. Schools Network

The D.A.V. College Trust and Managing Society operates hundreds of schools and colleges across India, educating millions of students. The network continues the mission of combining modern education with cultural values.

Arya Samaj

The Arya Samaj continues to function worldwide, though it has evolved from Mul Raj's original inclusive vision. The movement's emphasis on social reform and Vedic learning remains influential.

V.V.R.I. Institute

The Vishveshvaranand Vedic Research Institute in Hoshiarpur continues its research and publication work, preserving Sanskrit scholarship and Vedic knowledge for future generations.

Dr. Rabinder Nath Foundation

Carries forward the family's service legacy through free chai counters, community programs, educational workshops, and environmental initiatives in Hyderabad - continuing the tradition of compassionate service.

Spirit of Service

Most importantly, Mul Raj's example of using privilege and education to serve society continues to inspire. His life demonstrates how individual action can create lasting institutional change.

Wisdom from the Book

Timeless insights that remain relevant today

"If Swami Dayanand had introduced philosophical questions, doctrines and theories into the articles of faith of the Arya Samaj, he would certainly have limited the number of men who could have entered it..."

- On creating inclusive movements that welcome all seekers

The book documents historic changes in India that remain applicable today, showing how the seeds of modern India were planted over a century ago through dedication, vision, and institutional building.

- On the continuing relevance of historical lessons

The autobiography provides vivid accounts of the holocaust that preceded Partition, offering crucial historical perspective on one of the 20th century's greatest tragedies.

- On bearing witness to history

A Life in Timeline: 90 Years of Impact

Comprehensive journey through the life of Rai Bahadur Mul Raj (1855-1945)

From the Sepoy Mutiny to Independence movement, witness nine decades of transformative Indian history through the eyes of one extraordinary man who founded institutions, built banks, and shaped modern Punjab.

1850s-1860s
Age 0-15

Early Childhood: Foundations in Turmoil

  • 1855: Born in Ludhiana, Punjab (3 years after British annexation)
  • 1857: Family flees to Hardwar during Sepoy Mutiny - earliest memories shaped by crisis
  • Early education in maktabs (traditional Islamic schools)
  • Father dies early; self-made journey begins amid poverty
  • Brother Shiv Dayal becomes role model and guiding light
1860s-1870
Age 15-20

Foundation Years: Education & Early Influences

  • Education in Urdu (liberal arts foundation)
  • Mission School in Gurdaspur and Ludhiana - learns English and studies Bible
  • 1868: Brother Shiv Dayal becomes first Punjabi to pass Matriculation from Calcutta University
  • 1869: Moves to Lahore to join Shiv Dayal
  • 1870: Wraps up Mission School education
1870-1874
Age 20-24

Academic Excellence: First Among Punjabis

  • 1872: Passes F.A. examination (1st among Punjab students), studies at Medical College Lahore
  • 1874: FIRST PUNJABI to earn M.A. degree from Calcutta University
  • 1874: Passes Pleadership examination
  • 1874: Marries Goma Devi (after first wife's death)
  • Lives on scholarships - demonstrates brilliance despite poverty
1875-1878
Age 25-28

The Breakthrough Years: Recognition & Purpose

  • 1875: Appointed Alexander Fellow of Punjab University College
  • 1875: Begins teaching at Oriental College, Lahore
  • 1876: Prepares for Premchand Roychand Scholarship
  • 1876: Denied transfer to Government College (attributed to preference for "Europeanized Indians")
  • 1877: Awarded Premchand Roychand Scholarship (highest academic distinction in India)
  • 1877: THE TRANSFORMATIVE YEAR - Meets Swami Dayanand Saraswati
1877-1880
Age 27-30

Birth of Arya Samaj Lahore: Founding Father

  • 1877: Founding member of Arya Samaj Lahore
  • 1877: Becomes first President of Arya Samaj Lahore
  • 1878: Drafts Ten Principles (Niyamas) and Upaniyamas (constitution)
  • 1878: Delivers first lecture on Arya Samaj
  • 1878: Founds D.A.V. College Trust and Managing Society
  • Court case after exposing "Sadhu" as hoax
  • Growing tension with colonial authorities
1879-1880s
Age 29-35

Government Service Begins: Breaking Barriers

  • 1879: Appointed Extra Assistant Commissioner
  • First Punjabi to hold this position
  • Accused of "overstudy" and mental incapacity - medical certificates prove fitness
  • Posted to Multan, then Gujranwala
  • 1880: Begins studying Ayurveda for digestive issues
1881-1885
Age 31-35

District Postings: Service Across Punjab

  • 1881-1884: Gujrat (Treasury Officer, Sub-Registrar, Secretary of boards)
  • 1882: Visits Jammu, meets Maharaja Ranbir Singh (later falsely accused)
  • 1882: Testifies before Hunter Commission on Education
  • 1884-1885: Gurdaspur (malaria challenges)
  • 1885: Jhang (dust storms, vast territories)
1886-1890
Age 36-40

Institution Building Era: Creating Legacies

  • 1886: D.A.V. College Managing Committee formally established
  • 1887: Lahore posting, produces Yograj Guggal commercially
  • Profits go to D.A.V. for planting medicinal trees
  • 1889: Pandit Narain Dass grants permission to treat patients
  • Offers Ayurvedic services free of charge
  • 1890: Rawalpindi, then Ambala
1891-1895
Age 41-45

Banking Revolution: Financial Independence

  • 1891: Conceives idea of Punjab National Bank (while judge in Amritsar)
  • Daily conversations building consensus
  • Collaborates with Lala Bulaki Ram Shastri, Sardar Dayal Singh, Lala Lai Chand
  • 1894: Punjab National Bank formally established (May 19)
  • 1895: Establishes Mahesh Ayurvedic Pharmacy (named after father)
  • Uses profits for widows' home, orphanage, scholarships
1893-1900
Age 43-50

Swadeshi Pioneer: 30 Years Before Gandhi!

  • 1893: Founds Swadeshi Pracharini Sabha (30 years before Gandhi!)
  • 1896: Publishes "Swadeshi Vastu Pracharak" (weekly bulletin)
  • Promotes Indian goods, establishes manufacturers' library
  • Stopped publication 1898 due to lack of public interest
  • Personal commitment: always wears Swadeshi clothing
1896-1900
Age 46-50

Insurance & Further Ventures: Expanding Impact

  • 1896: Co-founds Bharat Insurance Company with Lala Harkishan Lai
  • Conflicts over autocratic management style
  • Reduces financial stake on principle
  • Glass factory in Ambala with son Lala Kedar Nath
  • Explores pencil factory possibility
1901-1905
Age 51-55

Cultural Revival: Music & Arts Flourish

  • 1901: Establishes Gandharva Maha-vidyalaya music school (May 5)
  • Invites Pandit Vishnu Digambar Paluskar from Bombay
  • "Beginning of revival of classical music in Punjab"
  • Children learn Indian classical music
  • 1905: Purchases "Willows" bungalow in Lahore
1890s-1912
Age 40-62

Judicial Career: Rising Through Ranks

  • District and Sessions Judge (highest position for EAC)
  • Encounters religious tensions, social inequalities
  • Mediates disputes, fights corruption
  • Transfers across Punjab: Rawalpindi, Ambala, Bannu
  • 1890: Ethical conflict in Ambala (refuses to comply with improper order, transferred)
1893
Age 43

Indian National Congress: Constitutional Architect

  • Drafts first constitution for Indian National Congress
  • A.O. Hume rejects it as "premature"
  • Principles later adopted in formal constitution
  • Attends Lahore session, participates in Subjects Committee
  • Advocates for industrial development over mere resolutions
  • Growing disillusionment with "frittered energies"
1912
Age 62

Retirement: Freedom to Speak Openly

  • Retires from Government Service after 32 years
  • Settles in "Willows" bungalow, Lahore
  • Home becomes intellectual center
  • Goma Devi runs Widows Home and Orphanage
  • Freedom from official duties allows more open advocacy
1913-1914
Age 63-64

Banking Crisis: Guardian of Public Trust

  • Peoples Bank collapse threatens Punjab financial system
  • As PNB Director and Arya Patrika contributor, faces ethical dilemma
  • With Rai Bahadur Thakur Datt Dhawan, exposes corruption in Arya Patrika
  • Earns enemies but restores public trust
  • Punjabi saying: "When the four put their hands to a thing, they certainly shake it up"
1919
Age 69

Meeting the Nehrus: Mentoring Future Leaders

  • Moti Lal Nehru visits Lahore (post-Jallianwala Bagh)
  • Regular visits to Dr. Prem Nath for dental treatment
  • Mul Raj suggests Moti Lal resume legal practice to fund Congress
  • Encourages Jawaharlal Nehru to enter politics
  • Discusses political climate in India
1920s-1930s
Age 70-85

Voice of Caution: Elder Statesman

  • Vice-President of Paropakarini Sabha
  • Continued involvement with Arya Patrika
  • Growing critique of Arya Samaj's direction
  • Advocates for inclusivity over dogma
  • 1933: Publishes "Dasa-Prain'i" pamphlet (presenting views as interview)
1930s
Age 80-90

Dictating History: Preserving the Legacy

  • Dictates autobiography to grandson Dr. Upender Nath
  • Reminiscences of 90 years
  • Documents entire life journey
  • Preserves institutional history
  • Family connections maintained
1935
Age 85

V.V.R.I. Funding: Final Institution Building

  • Meeting with Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya
  • Meeting with Dr. Kedar Nath, Acharya Vishva Bandhu
  • Discusses securing funding for Vishveshvaranand Vedic Research Institute
  • Despite advanced age, remains active in institutional building
1940-1945
Age 90

Final Years: Full Circle

  • 1942: Manuscript completed in Lahore
  • Witnesses World War II impact on India
  • Growing independence movement
  • Partition preparations beginning
  • Maintains correspondence, continues writing
  • 1945: Passes away at age 90
  • Spared the trauma of 1947 Partition (died 2 years before)
Post-1945
Legacy

The Legacy Lives On

  • 1947: Partition - family evacuated, manuscript survives
  • 1973: Acharya Vishva Bandhu edits manuscript
  • 1975: Finally published (30 years after death)
  • 2016: Rediscovered by Abhishek Nath
  • 2016: Book relaunched, Dr. Rabinder Nath Foundation established
  • Today: Legacy continues through DRNF's service work

How to Explore This Heritage

Connect with the living legacy through these pathways

Visit V.V.R.I. Institute

Vishveshvaranand Vedic Research Institute

Location: Hoshiarpur, Punjab

Original publisher and keeper of the book. Walk in the footsteps of the founder.

Visit V.V.R.I. Website
"Walk in the footsteps of the founder"

Contact DRNF

Dr. Rabinder Nath Foundation

Learn more about the book and family legacy

+91-40-4850-4850

info@drnf.org

Visit us in Hyderabad

"Connect with the living legacy"

Research & Academic Inquiry

Scholarly Access

  • Book available for scholarly research
  • Citations and references available
  • Contact V.V.R.I. for academic access
  • Primary source for Punjab history
"Unbiased scholars will reconstruct history"

Explore Related Institutions

Visit the Institutions He Built

  • D.A.V. Schools & Colleges (900+ institutions)
  • Punjab National Bank historical archives
  • The Tribune newspaper archives
  • Arya Samaj Lahore (if accessible)
"Visit the institutions he built"

Family Connections

Discover Your Connection

  • Descendants across India and London
  • Recent reconnection with Vishveshwar Nath's family
  • Family tree research ongoing
  • Connect if you're related
"You might be related"

Support the Legacy

Be Part of the Ongoing Story

  • Visit DRNF's free chai counters
  • Volunteer with community programs
  • Continue the service tradition
  • Spread the word about this heritage
"Be part of the ongoing story"

This is not just history - it's a living legacy. The institutions Mul Raj built continue to serve millions. The values he championed remain relevant. And through Dr. Rabinder Nath Foundation, his spirit of service lives on in Hyderabad's streets.

Contact DRNF Support Our Work

Explore Our Heritage

Learn more about the book, visit V.V.R.I. Institute in Hoshiarpur, or connect with the Dr. Rabinder Nath Foundation to explore this remarkable family legacy and how we continue the tradition of service today.

Contact DRNF Our Story Visit V.V.R.I.