Proposal to Change University Name

The executive council of Bhopal’s Barkatullah University proposed changing its name to Vagdevi Bhojpal University. Originally known as Bhopal University, it was renamed after Maulana Barkatullah Bhopali in 1988.

Maulana Barkatullah Bhopali's Contributions

• Maulana Barkatullah was a notable freedom fighter and the 'first prime minister of independent India'.
• He established India's first 'government in exile' in Kabul in 1915 with Raja Mahendra Pratap.
• Barkatullah traveled globally, building alliances for India's independence.

Efforts Abroad

• Worked in various countries including Japan, England, the US, Germany, Russia, and Afghanistan.
• His efforts weren't widely recognized in India due to dying in the US in 1927.
• Ali Nadeem Rezavi emphasized his belief in unity among all Indian communities for independence.

Legacy and Recognition

• Chaman Lal suggested increasing efforts to popularize Barkatullah's legacy rather than renaming the university.
• His work with different communities exemplified his belief in collective action against British rule.

Provisional Government of India

• Formed with Raja Mahendra Pratap and Maulana Ubaidullah Sindhi in Kabul.
• Set up as a political body independent of British control, showcasing unity among diverse Indian communities.

International Activities and Ideologies

• During WWI, attempted to recruit Indian soldiers in Germany to fight the British.
• Involved with the Ghadar Party, aiming for independence through armed struggle.
• Met with Lenin in Moscow, aligning with Communists against British colonialism.

Final Years and Influence

• Continued working in exile in Europe, promoting anti-colonial efforts.
• Passed away in California in 1927, with Raja Mahendra Pratap present.
• His contributions are being recognized alongside Raja Mahendra Pratap by the central government.