Ganesh Vasudev Mavlankar (27 November 1888 – 27 February 1956) was a prominent Indian freedom fighter, lawyer, and statesman who played a historic role in shaping India’s parliamentary democracy. He is best remembered as the first Speaker of the Lok Sabha, the lower house of India’s Parliament.
Ganesh Vasudev Mavlankar was born on 27 November 1888 in Baroda (now Vadodara), Gujarat. He was trained as a lawyer and was deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of truth, non-violence, and public service. Inspired by the freedom movement, he joined the Indian National Congress and actively participated in national struggles against British rule.
Mavlankar took part in the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Civil Disobedience Movement, for which he faced imprisonment. He was known for his integrity, discipline, and commitment to democratic values. His leadership qualities earned him great respect among fellow freedom fighters.
After independence, Mavlankar became a member of the Constituent Assembly of India, where he contributed to debates on democracy and governance. In 1952, he was unanimously elected as the first Speaker of the Lok Sabha. In this role, he laid down important parliamentary conventions, ensuring fairness, dignity, and impartiality in legislative proceedings.
Ganesh Vasudev Mavlankar passed away on 27 February 1956 while still in office. He is remembered as the architect of India’s parliamentary traditions and a symbol of democratic integrity. His legacy continues to guide the functioning of India’s Parliament today.