Bhagat Singh (1907–1931) was an influential Indian revolutionary who played a pivotal role in the fight against British colonial rule. Born into a Sikh family in Banga, Punjab (now in Pakistan), Bhagat Singh grew up in a politically charged environment; his family was deeply involved in India's struggle for independence. His early exposure to revolutionary ideas shaped his beliefs and set him on a path of resistance against British oppression.
Early Life and EducationBirth and Family:
Bhagat Singh was born on September 28, 1907, to Kishan Singh and Vidyavati. His family was well-known for their involvement in the freedom struggle; his father and uncles were active members of the Ghadar Movement.
Education:
He was a bright student who was heavily influenced by the political climate around him. He read extensively about European revolutionary movements, Marxism, and anarchism, which shaped his thoughts on independence and colonialism.Youthful Activism: By his teenage years, Bhagat Singh was already participating in revolutionary activities. He joined the Naujawan Bharat Sabha (Youth Society of India) and became a member of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA), a group dedicated to achieving independence through armed struggle.
Revolutionary Activities Lala Lajpat Rai's Death:
In 1928, Bhagat Singh witnessed the death of Lala Lajpat Rai, a prominent leader who succumbed to injuries after a brutal lathi charge by the British police during a protest against the Simon Commission. This event deeply affected Bhagat Singh and fueled his desire for retribution against the British.
Assassination of John Saunders:
To avenge Rai’s death, Bhagat Singh, along with Shivaram Rajguru and Sukhdev Thapar, plotted and successfully assassinated John Saunders, a British police officer, in December 1928. However, their target was James A. Scott, the police superintendent responsible for the lathi charge, but they mistakenly killed Saunders.
Bombing in the Central Legislative Assembly:
In April 1929, Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt threw non-lethal bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi to protest against repressive laws. The bombs were not meant to kill but to create awareness and stir public consciousness. After throwing the bombs, they voluntarily surrendered, shouting slogans like "Inquilab Zindabad" (Long Live the Revolution).
Imprisonment and Trial
Bhagat Singh's arrest led to a dramatic and high-profile trial. During his imprisonment, he used the courtroom as a platform to voice his revolutionary ideals and expose British injustices.
Hunger Strike:
While in jail, Bhagat Singh and his comrades went on a hunger strike to protest against the inhumane treatment of political prisoners. The strike drew significant attention and lasted for 116 days, capturing the imagination of the Indian masses.
Execution
On March 23, 1931, Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev were hanged by the British authorities in Lahore, at the young age of 23. His execution was carried out a day earlier than scheduled to avoid public unrest. His death made him a martyr and further ignited the Indian independence movement.
Legacy
Bhagat Singh remains a symbol of youth, courage, and resistance against oppression. He is celebrated as one of India’s greatest freedom fighters and continues to inspire generations. His ideas on secularism, socialism, and anti-imperialism remain relevant today.
Books and Writings:
Bhagat Singh was also a prolific writer. He authored several essays and pamphlets during his time in jail, including "Why I am an Atheist" and "The Philosophy of the Bomb."
Conclusion
Bhagat Singh's revolutionary spirit, intellectual prowess, and commitment to justice make him a timeless figure in Indian history. His life is a testament to the power of youth and the importance of standing up against injustice, regardless of the consequences.