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Sir Lala Shri Ram & The Trust

Lala Shri Ram: A Visionary Leader and Founder

“Education is the key which is going to unlock the door to our greatness…”

-Sir Lala Shri Ram

Sir Lala Shri Ram, a distinguished philanthropist, visionary industrialist, and pioneering leader of India’s business community, was born on April 27, 1884. Gifted with an analytical mind, tireless work ethic, and an innate understanding of human relations, his national prominence was cemented in 1930 when, at the age of 46, he was elected President of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). Succeeding G.D. Birla as the fourth President, he assumed office with Mahatma Gandhi by his side—a powerful symbol of leadership during a crucial period in India’s history. Among his many achievements, Lala Shri Ram was nominated to the first Central Board of Directors of the Reserve Bank of India.

Commitment to Education

Lala Shri Ram’s commitment to education, particularly in the fields of vocational, technical, and women’s education, was unparalleled. In 1920, he founded the Commercial Education Trust, an initiative that laid the foundation for what would later become the Shri Ram College of Commerce. Starting with the Commercial High School, which was elevated to a degree college in 1930 and a post-graduate institution in 1934, Lala Shri Ram’s vision for commerce-focused education was transformational.

By 1942, Lala Shri Ram had become the Chairman of the Governing Body of the college. Under his leadership, the college grew rapidly, offering a wide range of courses including the B.A. Pass and B.A. Honours in Commerce, as well as M.A. programs in Economics and Commerce. Despite his reluctance, the college was renamed Shri Ram College of Commerce in 1949 in his honor. A year later, the college moved to its present location in the University Enclave.

Lala Shri Ram remained actively involved with the college until 1962, when ill health forced him to resign. He passed away on January 11, 1963. Reflecting on his immense contributions, Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, then President of India, said, “He was not only a great industrialist but helped many good causes. His contributions to education are memorable.”

Founder’s Day Celebration

In recognition of his legacy, Shri Ram College of Commerce celebrates Founder’s Day annually on April 27, commemorating the birth anniversary of its revered founder.

Shri Ram College of Commerce: A Legacy of Excellence in Commerce and Economics

Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC), one of the premier institutions affiliated with the University of Delhi, has been a beacon of quality education for over 87 years. Since its establishment, the college has consistently excelled in imparting education in the fields of commerce and economics, earning a reputation as a leader in these disciplines.

Lady Shri Ram College for Women: A Premier Institution of Higher Learning

Lady Shri Ram College for Women (LSR) is widely regarded as one of India’s leading institutions for higher education, known for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic development. Established as a center of learning for women, LSR has consistently maintained its stature as one of the finest institutions for Social Sciences, Humanities, and Commerce, while also offering a B.Sc. program in Statistics.

LSR remains at the forefront of knowledge and innovation, adapting to the evolving landscape of education while setting benchmarks in intellectual and academic pursuits.