Prof. Narain Chand Parashar: A Visionary Leader, Scholar, and Parliamentarian
Narain Chand Parashar (2 July 1934 – 21 February 2001) was an eminent Indian parliamentarian, professor, linguist, and writer. His multifaceted contributions spanned the fields of politics, education, linguistics, and cultural development, leaving a lasting impact on Himachal Pradesh and India as a whole.
Born in Ferozepur, Punjab, to Nand Lal and Phula Devi, Parashar hailed from the village of Sera in present-day Hamirpur district. He was educated in the Kangra district, which then encompassed Kangra, Hamirpur, Una, Kullu, and Lahaul-Spiti. A brilliant student, Parashar obtained a BA (Hons) and MA in English language before embarking on a distinguished career in education. He taught at Tanda in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, and later at DAV College, University of Delhi. His passion for learning extended beyond English; he earned diplomas in Chinese, Japanese, and Bengali, and had working knowledge of German, Italian, Spanish, Telugu, Tamil, and Punjabi.
A Champion of Pahari Language and Himachali Identity
As a linguist, Parashar was deeply committed to preserving and promoting the Pahari language and its role in reinforcing Himachali cultural identity. He spearheaded a movement advocating for the inclusion of Pahari as an official language of India in Schedule 8 of the Indian Constitution, a cause that is still under consideration by the Indian government.
An accomplished author, Parashar wrote in English, Hindi, and Pahari, with works that spanned topics like Buddhism, parliamentary procedures, and the sociopolitical issues of hilly regions. His significant contributions to Buddhist scholarship included translating important Buddhist texts—such as the Dhammapada, Bodhicharyavatara, and the Saddharmapundarika Sutra (Lotus Sutra)—into Pahari. He earned a Doctorate from the University of Delhi for his critical analysis of the Bodhicharyavatara.
Legacy in Education and Community Upliftment
Parashar was deeply inspired by the ideals of Indian freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. To honor his legacy, Parashar founded a school in Bose’s name in his village, Sera, and annually celebrated Bose’s birthday. He was also a devout follower of Buddhist philosophy, regularly commemorating Buddha Purnima.
Committed to preserving the history and contributions of Himachali leaders, Parashar wrote a biography of Pahari Gandhi Baba Kanshi Ram, a renowned freedom fighter. In recognition of his efforts, a postage stamp in Baba Kanshi Ram’s honor was released by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1983, further highlighting Parashar's dedication to honoring Himachali heritage.
Parliamentary Career and Global Recognition
Narain Chand Parashar’s political career was marked by remarkable achievements. He was elected three times to the Lok Sabha, representing the Indian National Congress, and served in the 5th (1971–1977), 7th (1980–1984), and 8th (1984–1989) Lok Sabhas. His exceptional parliamentary skills earned him the Best Parliamentarian Award in 1987, presented by Vice-President Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma. He also chaired the Committee on Government Assurances from 1986 to 1989.
Internationally, Parashar represented India at prestigious forums, including the United Nations General Assembly (1980, 1986), UNESCO Conference (1985), and the international conclave in Lisbon aimed at resolving the Nicaragua problem. His contributions were so highly regarded that he was awarded honorary citizenship of New Jersey, USA, in 1986.
Leadership in Himachal Pradesh Politics
One of Parashar’s key political triumphs was his ability to weather the anti-Congress waves of 1977 and 1990, remaining steadfast in his commitment to his party and his community. After his decisive victory in the 1990 state assembly elections, Rajiv Gandhi appointed him as the President of the Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee on 11 June 1990. His leadership was instrumental in revitalizing the Congress party, which subsequently returned to power in the state. Parashar won the Nadaun Assembly seat again in 1993 and served as Education Minister of Himachal Pradesh until 1998.
During his tenure as Education Minister, Parashar secured various centrally sponsored schemes for the state, including the Sanskrit Vidyapeeth at Kaleshwar in Kangra, Kendriya Vidyalayas in Hamirpur and Nadaun, and the introduction of the District Primary Education Programme (DPEP) and ICDS schemes. His dedication to education earned Himachal Pradesh acclaim from Nobel laureate Dr. Amartya Sen for its remarkable progress during Parashar’s tenure.
Narain Chand Parashar passed away on 21 February 2001 in Delhi, leaving behind a legacy of service, scholarship, and leadership that continues to inspire generations.