Devkinandan Narayan was born in 1899 in Taluka and District Jalgaon. He pursued his education till graduation before embarking on a journey dedicated to the service of his nation. In 1921, amidst the fervour of the non-cooperation movement sweeping through Jalgaon district, he found inspiration in the actions of prominent freedom fighter Annasaheb Dastane. Following Dastane's lead, he relinquished his position at a college to actively participate in the movement.
His dedication and leadership were evident as he spearheaded various initiatives such as promoting Swadeshi, advocating the boycott of foreign goods and government schools, establishing a national school, and organizing protests against foreign cloth and alcohol, among others.
Before India gained independence, he held pivotal positions as the President of the Jalgaon District Congress Committee and the Khandesh Congress Committee for a decade. His commitment to the cause led to his imprisonment for a total of five years during the non-cooperation movement.
Post-independence, his service continued as an executive member of the Jalgaon District Municipal School Board and as a member of the All India Congress Committee for over two decades. His dedication extended to various endeavours including contributions to Pune University, Khadi Manufacturing and Sales, Khadi Village Industries Exhibition, Tilak Fund, Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Fund and Kasturba Fund.
Devkinandan Narayan passed away in 1982.
Name mentioned in the Gazetteer Government of Maharashtra.
Source: Vijay Balasaheb Pawbake, Contributor for CCRT.