Mulayam Singh Yadav - Early Life

Early Life

Mulayam Singh Yadav was born to Murti Devi and Sughar Singh on 22 November 1939 in the village Saifai of Etawah district of Uttar Pradesh in India. His father wanted the son to be a wrestler and his political guru, Natthu Singh, spotted him in a wrestling match at Mainpuri. Impressed by his muscle power Mulayam was rewarded the political pocket of Jaswantnagar by Singh.

He has gained several degrees - a B.A., B.T., and an M.A. in political science - through his education at K.K. College in Etawah, A.K. College in Shikohabad and B.R. College, Agra University.

First elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in Legislative Assembly of Uttar Pradesh in 1967, Yadav went on to serve eight terms there. He first became a state minister in 1977, Later in 1980, he became the president of the Lok Dal (People's Party) in Uttar Pradesh which became a part of the Janata Dal (People's Party) afterward. In 1982, he was elected leader of the opposition in the Uttar Pradesh legislative council and held that post until 1985.

He was groomed by Indian socialist leaders like Raj Narain and Ram Manohar Lohia in his political journey. An ardent follower of Raj Narain who had defeated Indira Gandhi in Lok Sabha elections of 1977 from Raibareli constituency. He was very close to Ram Manohar Lohia, and Chaudhary Charan Singh.

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