Dr. Kanaiyalal Maneklal Munshi, widely known as Dr. K M Munshi, was a multifaceted personality who left an indelible mark on the cultural, political, and literary landscape of India. His life’s journey was marked by remarkable achievements in various fields, making him a prominent figure in Indian history.His insights into India’s cultural fabric made him one of the most outstanding members of the Constituent Assembly. He was the only member who played a pervasive role in the drafting of the constitution. The article guaranteeing every person equal protection of the law was the result of a draft jointly written by Munshiji and Dr.Ambedkar.In 1938, Munshiji founded the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan at Mumbai and, as its President, guided its activities till his death. He transformed the Bhavan into a major institution serving the cultural, educational, literary, scientific and spiritual life of the nation through innumerable activities.The Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan was the crowning glory of a life dedicated to noble causes and great purposes. He looked upon the Bhavan an instrument for translating into reality his vision of an India unshaken by the ‘technological avalanche’ and rooted in the values of an immemorial culture that, while not denying worldly joys, aspires for the life of the spirit.
“The Bhavan and Kulapati Munshi “are synonymous. The Bhavan, his lengthened shadow, is the vibrant symbol of modern Indian renaissance.“Dr.Munshi was a humanist. He was a man of religion but not a religious fanatic. Modern in his outlook, he looked to the past to strengthen the cultural roots of the present. He was, as he chose to describe himself,’ a sea shell thrown up by the mighty flood of Indian renaissance”Dr. K M Munshi’s life and contributions epitomize a harmonious fusion of political astuteness, literary brilliance, and unwavering dedication to cultural preservation.
Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan was established by late Dr. K.M. Munshi in 1938 at Bombay with the main objective of reviving, propagating and popularising Indian culture, civilization and philosophy amongst our people. It is cosmopolitan in its nature and outlook, respects all religions, does not recognise barriers of caste, colour and religion and is open to all who cherish and believe in its principles and ideals
