Bhagat Singh: The heroic revolutionary who fueled India’s freedom struggle
By: SAQIB SARWAR MIR
Bhagat Singh, a fearless freedom fighter, left an indelible mark on India’s struggle for independence. Born with a fiery spirit and a deep longing for freedom, he dedicated his life to fighting against British colonial rule. From a young age, Bhagat Singh displayed a fervent passion for justice and equality which eventually led him to join revolutionary activities. His unwavering commitment to the cause of independence made him a prominent figure in the fight for freedom.
Bhagat Singh was born on 28 September 1907 in Punjab, British India. He witnessed the British officials mistreating innocent people, which deeply affected him. At the age of 12, after witnessing the JallianwalaBagh massacre, Bhagat took a vow to free India from British rule. Initially supporting Gandhi’s non-cooperation movement, he felt let down when it was called off. This led him to become a revolutionary and join the Hindustan Republican Association. Bhagat Singh, while deeply involved in the struggle for India’s independence, found himself imprisoned due to his activities.
His father, Kishen Singh, paid a hefty sum of ₹60,000 to secure his release. However, instead of accepting his father’s help, Bhagat chose to follow his passion for the nation and ran away from home. Leaving behind a heartfelt note, he emphasized that his love for the country was his top priority. Bhagat Singh and his comrades were involved in some intense events. After witnessing the brutal beating and death of LalaLajpatRai during a protest, Bhagat and his fellow revolutionaries sought revenge by targeting John P. Saunders (who is mistaken for James A. Scott) police officer responsible for Lala’s death.
They went into hiding to evade capture. Feeling disillusioned in Calcutta, they decided to plan an explosion. With the reluctant agreement of JatindraNath Das, they learned bomb-making and tested their device. Azad worried about Bhagat’s safety, but Sukhdev consoled him. On 8 April 1929, Bhagat and BatukeshwarDutt bombed the Central Legislative Assembly, intentionally avoiding casualties. They were arrested and publicly tried. Bhagat gave a speech, expressing his desire to reveal the true nature of the freedom fighters and their struggle for independence. He became a popular figure in the fight for freedom. “If the deaf are to hear, the sound has to be very loud.”-Bhagat Singh
After his arrest, Bhagat Singh’s journey took a dramatic turn as he found himself at the center of the Lahore conspiracy case. The daring act of assassinating British police officer John Saunders sent shockwaves throughout the country and ignited a spark of resistance against the oppressive British rule. Bhagat Singh’s actions not only struck fear into the hearts of the colonial authorities but also inspired countless Indians to rise up against injustice. During his time in jail, Bhagat Singh displayed remarkable courage and unwavering determination.
Alongside his fellow revolutionaries, he embarked on a historic hunger strike to protest against the inhumane treatment of Indian political prisoners. Their peaceful protest sent a powerful message to the world, shedding light on the plight of those fighting for independence. “Bombs and pistols don’t make a revolution. The sword of revolution is sharpened on the whetting stone of ideas”-BhagatSingh.
The sacrifice and resilience shown by Bhagat Singh continue to inspire and motivate generations. His unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom and his willingness to sacrifice his own life for the betterment of the nation make him a true hero.
Bhagat Singh’s legacy serves as a reminder to the youth of today to stand up for what they believe in and fight for a just and equal society. His ideologies and beliefs that fueled his revolutionary spirit. He was a staunch advocate of socialism, believing in a society where wealth and resources are shared equally among all. He saw the British Raj as an oppressive force, exploiting the Indian people and hindering their progress. His vision for an independent India went beyond just political freedom. He dreamed of a nation where every citizen, regardless of their background, had equal opportunities and rights.
Bhagat Singh’s ideas struck a chord with the masses, who were yearning for a better future. The impact of Bhagat Singh’s martyrdom cannot be overstated. His sacrifice ignited a fire within the hearts of Indians, inspiring them to continue the fight for liberty. His bravery and unwavering commitment to the cause became a symbol of resistance against colonial rule. “They may kill me, but they cannot kill my ideas. They can crush my body, but they will not be able to crush my spirit”-Bhagat Singh.
Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru were executed in secrecy on 23rd March 1931, even before their trial on 24th March 1931. Their untimely and unjust deaths shook the nation and left a deep void in the hearts of millions. However, their sacrifices were not in vain. Their martyrdom ignited a fire within the hearts of countless Indians, fueling the fight for independence and inspiring future generations to continue the struggle. Their legacy lives on as a reminder of the indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication towards the cause of freedom.
Today, Bhagat Singh’s legacy lives on as a reminder of the power of conviction and the importance of fighting for justice. His life teaches us the value of standing up for what we believe in, even in the face of adversity. Let us honor his memory by carrying forward his ideals and working towards a more inclusive and equitable society. Bhagat Singh is an absolute legend and a true inspiration. His fearless actions and unwavering dedication to the cause of independence make him a national hero.
From his powerful speeches to his revolutionary activities, he captured the hearts of millions. His sacrifice and bravery continue to resonate with people, reminding us of the power of standing up for what we believe in. Bhagat Singh’s legacy is a beacon of hope and courage for generations to come. “Revolution is an inalienable right of mankind. Freedom is an imperishable birthright of all.”-Bhagat Singh.
The writer is pursuing graduation from Govt. Degree College Sogam (Lolab), Kupwaraand can be reached at [email protected]
Kashmir Images is an English language daily newspaper published from Srinagar (J&K), India. The newspaper is one of the largest circulated English dailies of Kashmir and its hard copies reach every nook and corner of Kashmir Valley besides Jammu and Ladakh region.
