Karpoori Thakur’s Simplicity Still Inspires: Donated Money Meant for Kurta, Travelled Abroad Wearing a Torn Coat

Patna: Bihar’s former Chief Minister and the legendary “Jananayak” Karpoori Thakur is being remembered on his death anniversary today, as leaders across the country paid tribute to the Bharat Ratna awardee. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and several senior leaders offered heartfelt condolences, recalling Thakur’s extraordinary contribution to Bihar and Indian politics.

However, beyond politics, Karpoori Thakur is still celebrated for something rare in public life — unshakable honesty, simplicity, and selfless dedication.

Even after becoming Chief Minister twice, his lifestyle remained that of an ordinary citizen. His life was a symbol of clean politics and moral strength. So humble was his nature that even after holding the highest office in Bihar, there was no personal concrete house built in his name in his ancestral village.

Money Collected for His Torn Kurta Was Deposited in Relief Fund

One of the most emotional stories highlighting Karpoori Thakur’s integrity is linked to former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar. During a meeting at the Chief Minister’s residence, Chandra Shekhar noticed that Karpoori Thakur’s kurta pocket was torn.

Moved by the sight, he immediately collected money from the people present, spreading his scarf as a collection cloth, and handed the amount to Karpoori Thakur, requesting him to stitch a new kurta.

But in a remarkable gesture, Karpoori Thakur did not spend the money on himself. Instead, he deposited the entire amount into the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund, proving once again that for him, public welfare was always greater than personal comfort.

Travelled to Australia Wearing a Torn Coat

Another story of his simplicity continues to amaze people even today. When Karpoori Thakur was scheduled to travel to Australia as part of a delegation, he did not even have a proper coat suitable for an international visit.

He borrowed an old coat from a friend, which was already torn. Yet, without hesitation or embarrassment, he wore the same torn coat and travelled abroad.

It is said that when Yugoslavia’s Marshal Tito noticed his torn coat, he was shocked. Deeply impressed by his simplicity and dignity, Tito gifted Karpoori Thakur a new coat as a mark of respect.

A Dedicated Socialist and Symbol of Clean Politics

Born on January 24, 1924, Karpoori Thakur embraced socialist ideology early in his student life. He considered Jayaprakash Narayan and Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia as his guiding inspirations and remained committed to their principles throughout his political journey.

Known for promoting corruption-free governance and standing firm against compromise, Karpoori Thakur became an icon of political purity. Despite holding high office, he often preferred travelling like a common man, even using rickshaws instead of official vehicles.

A Legacy That Lives On

Karpoori Thakur remains a rare example of leadership rooted in humility and public service. Even decades after his passing, his life continues to serve as a powerful reminder that true politics is not about power, but about values, sacrifice, and service to society.

On his death anniversary, Bihar and the nation once again salute the Jananayak — a leader whose simplicity became his greatest strength and whose honesty turned into his timeless legacy.