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dated March 4, 1953: Rectorial address by Rajaji

Chief Minister, Mr. C. Rajagopalachari delivered the Rectorial address at the Madura College in Madurai on the 3rd. Making a powerful plea for India to retain English, he said, "Let us not give up English which we acquired by an accident of history. It is a universal language, and the language of modern science, modern research, modern politics, and modern scholarship in all branches of life. The Chief Minister made the above remarks, after distributing prizes to meritorious students of the College and of the Setupati High School administered by the Madura College Board. Rajaji had begun his address saying, "I speak in English to prove the point that it is good to preserve this language in our country." In other parts of his address, Rajaji said, "I have been told that one who delivers this talk is called Rector of the College for one year. For a few days I will be thought of as Rector. Then the process of getting a new Rector will begin. This position emphasizes the transitory nature of titles. To the students I say this: Everything depends on your conduct. Your brains may or may not develop under your teachers, but your conduct is entirely in your own hands. By it, you can get happiness throughout life. There are many evil forces to prevent the young from growing properly. But you must keep your minds safe. What our scriptures teach can be best remembered in this form; do not give room for bad thoughts in your mind. To the rich friends here I make an appeal to contribute generously to institutions like this college. Remember the Upanishadic saying that good work alone remains, nothing else. If the rich leave money behind it can go into the hands of those who will misuse it. By all means acquire money, but use it well in your own time. Do not leave behind even a pie to people who will not know how to use it rightly."

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