Vijay Rupani: Journey Of Service And Simplicity

Early Life and Childhood

Vijay Rupani was born on August 2, 1956, in Rangoon (now Yangon), Burma (now Myanmar). His family, originally from Gujarat, moved back to Rajkot, India, in 1960 after political instability in Burma. Vijay was just 4 years old at the time.

His parents — Ramniklal and Mayaben Rupani — were followers of Jain philosophy and believed in a simple, disciplined life. This strong family and cultural foundation played a key role in shaping Vijay’s values and political thinking later on.

Growing up in Rajkot, Vijay was known for being quiet, observant, and deeply interested in public issues even as a student. He completed his education at Dharmendrasinhji College and later earned a Bachelor of Arts and a Law degree from Saurashtra University.

Entry Into Politics

Vijay Rupani was drawn to politics during his college days. In the early 1970s, India was going through major political movements — especially the Navnirman Movement in Gujarat. Rupani joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a right-wing nationalist group that strongly influenced BJP’s ideology.

Later, he became associated with Jan Sangh, the predecessor to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His political journey started with grassroots activism, including jail time during the Emergency declared by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi (1975–77), when many opposition leaders were imprisoned.

Rising Through the Ranks

Vijay Rupani steadily rose through the BJP’s ranks, known for his discipline, honesty, and low-profile yet effective working style.

In 1987, he was elected as a municipal corporator in Rajkot.
He became Mayor of Rajkot in 1996–97.
He served as Chairman of Gujarat Tourism and held various key posts in the state BJP unit.
He also served as Rajya Sabha MP (Upper House of Parliament) from 2006 to 2012.

His political strength lay in organization, clean image, and connections with both RSS and BJP leadership, especially Amit Shah.

Chief Minister of Gujarat

The turning point in Rupani’s political career came in August 2016, when he was appointed the 16th Chief Minister of Gujarat, following Anandiben Patel’s resignation. His selection surprised many, as he wasn’t considered a frontrunner.

Key Highlights as CM:

Handled Gujarat Assembly Elections (2017): Though BJP’s seats slightly reduced, the party retained power.
Pro-Business Policies: Continued Gujarat’s investor-friendly image with events like Vibrant Gujarat Summits.
Social Development: Focused on infrastructure, education, and urban development.
Pandemic Management: Led the state through the challenges of COVID-19, with mixed reviews.

He served two terms — from 2016 to 2021 — and voluntarily stepped down in September 2021, paving way for a new leadership (Bhupendra Patel).

Personal Life

Vijay Rupani is married to Anjali Rupani, a quiet presence in his political life but active in social work. The couple has one son and one daughter. He is known for living a simple, spiritual life, heavily influenced by Jain values like non-violence, truth, and clean living.

Legacy and Later Life

After resigning as CM, Vijay Rupani stayed active in party politics, offering guidance and mentoring young leaders. He continues to be respected for his clean image, calm nature, and dedicated service to Gujarat.

He is not known for flashy speeches or aggressive politics but for his consensus-building style, organizational skills, and ability to stay grounded in power.

In Conclusion

Vijay Rupani’s life is a story of consistency, simplicity, and quiet determination. From a small-town boy who returned from Burma to becoming the Chief Minister of Gujarat, he has shown that discipline and loyalty in politics can take you far — even without loud rhetoric or media spotlight.

As of now, he continues to be part of India’s political landscape, living in Gujarat, occasionally speaking at public events and guiding the next generation.

Condolence Message:

We are deeply saddened to hear about the untimely demise of Shri Vijay Rupani Ji in a tragic Air India plane crash on 12th June 2025 in Ahmedabad.

A leader of immense integrity, humility, and commitment, Shri Rupani Ji devoted his entire life to the service of the people and the nation. His calm demeanor, visionary leadership, and unwavering dedication to Gujarat will always be remembered.

Our heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and countless followers. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may God give strength to all who are grieving this profound loss.

Om Shanti.