To understand this whole matter, it is important to know some basic facts, such as: Who was Mahamana? What is meant by moksha? And why is Kashi called the city of moksha?
People who do not know much about Hinduism may not be aware of these things. So, before learning about the inspiring story from Mahamana’s life, it is important to know a few things about them.
MAHAMANA
Madan Mohan Malaviya, fondly known as “Mahamana,” was one of the most respected leaders of India’s freedom struggle.
Mahatma Gandhi gave him the title “Mahamana” in recognition of his purity, discipline, and selfless devotion to the nation.
A visionary educationist, he was the founder of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of India’s largest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning.
He was elected President of the Indian National Congress four times, reflecting his influential leadership and national stature. Malaviya made lasting contributions to India’s political, social, and educational development.
In honour of his lifelong service, he was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour, in 2014.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
MOKSHA
In Indian philosophy, everything in this world is not permanent, and this is seen as the main reason for sorrow.
Life is a cycle of birth and death, and the world keeps changing. Freedom from this cycle and from ignorance is called moksha.
Moksha is the final goal of life. It means complete peace and freedom.
Kashi: The City Where Death Leads to Liberation
Today, the city of Varanasi is also known as Banaras and Kashi, but ancient Hindu texts make it clear that these three names are not the same. Each name has its own special meaning and refers to a different geographical region, carrying a unique cultural and spiritual significance.
The geographical boundaries of Kashi
On the map, the boundaries of Kashi are marked in red, and only the area within this sacred line is considered the true Kashi region.
Just below this boundary lies the crescent-shaped Banaras Hindu University, positioned at the southern end and standing as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
*
Why Mahamana Malaviya Refused to Die in Kashi — A Story of True National Service
For every Hindu, no matter where they live in the world, there is a deeply held spiritual wish—to die in Kashi.
It is believed that taking one’s last breath in this sacred city grants moksha, freedom from the cycle of rebirth. For thousands of years, this belief has made Kashi the eternal spiritual heart of Sanatan Dharma.
Yet Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya—revered freedom fighter, great educationist, and founder of Banaras Hindu University—made a decision that continues to astonish and inspire generations.
Despite living close to the southern boundary of Kashi, Mahamana Malaviya consciously chose not to die within its sacred limits.
This decision did not come from doubt or disbelief. On the contrary, Malaviya ji was a man of deep faith who respected Hindu traditions wholeheartedly. His choice was born out of something even greater—his unmatched devotion to the nation.
He believed that serving India was a higher calling than seeking personal salvation. For him, the motherland came before tradition, before comfort, and even before liberation itself.
He is believed to have said that he did not desire moksha; instead, he wished to be reborn so that he could continue serving his country.
To honor this resolve, Malaviya ji spent his final days at a lodge within the Banaras Hindu University campus—situated just outside the traditional sacred boundary of Kashi.
By passing away there, he knowingly gave up the promise of instant liberation, expressing his desire to return and serve India once again.
Mahamana Malaviya’s choice stands as a timeless lesson in selflessness. It teaches us that true devotion lies not only in spiritual belief, but in tireless service to the nation—and that for a true patriot, duty to the country is the highest form of worship.
