Shastri ji condemned the idea of caste system to which he even dropped his birth name “varma”. Later he was given the scholarly title ‘Shastri’ after graduating from Kashi Vidyapeeth.
He is known for popularising the slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’ as a sign of gratitude towards soldiers and farmers. He also recognised the need for self-reliance as a pillar of a strong nation.
Shastri ji was actively involved in the independence struggle, participating in the Quit India Movement of 1942 and advocating for non-violent resistance under Mahatma Gandhi's leadership.
Shastri ji resigned from the post of Minister of Railways when an accident took place which took away many lives, believing it to be his responsibility.
During his time as Minister of Police and Transport in Uttar Pradesh, Shastri was the first person to introduce water jets instead of lathi charges to disperse unruly crowds.
As Prime Minister, he contributed to the White Revolution, establishing the National Dairy Development Board and making India one of the largest milk producers.
Even as Prime Minister, Shastri remained humble, living in a modest home and refusing to use government privileges for personal gain.