New Delhi: National Education Day is celebrated across the country on the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the first Education Minister of independent India. Born on this day in 1888 in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Abul Kalam 'Azad', commonly remembered as Maulana Azad, was one of India's most prominent freedom fighters. He not only fought against British colonial rule but also opposed the creation of Pakistan. 7 interesting facts related to Maulana Azad on his birth anniversary: 1- Maulana Azad was posthumously awarded Bharat Ratna in 1992. 2- He was a prominent Muslim leader, who opposed the partition of India and the creation of Pakistan. 3- Maulana Azad was also the first Education Minister of independent India. 4- Maulana Azad gained popularity through his work as a journalist. He published critical works of the British Raj and supported Indian nationalism. 5- Maulana Azad's real name was 'Abul Kalam Ghulam Muhiyuddin', he later became famous as Maulana Azad. 6- Maulana Azad became the youngest person to serve as the President of the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1923 at the age of 35. 7- Maulana Azad also took a major part in the 'Khilafat Movement' (1919-26). Ajay Devgn, Farhan Akhtar, and other celebrities react after Team India’s world cup loss Man died after seeing Tiger who went on a morning walk Heavy rain alert in these states, schools and colleges will remain closed