Lest We Forget

CAPTAIN COURAGE

2009-09-11T07:34:00.000-07:00

INSPIRATION

Neither is his name mentioned in any of our war stories nor did he find a place in our history lessons. Neither is he a hero for any child nor do most of us think about him in particular while paying tributes to our National Heroes. Neither did he lay down his life guarding our borders nor did he die saving his fellow countrymen. This is a small story of a warrior who laid down his life for a cause his Company and his Army believed in. And this is a small tribute to remember all those Indian soldiers without whose supreme sacrifice various peace keeping missions across the world would have been futile. Captain Gurbachan Singh Salaria, we do remember you....

EARLY LIFE

Captain Gurbachan Singh Salaria, was born on 29 November 1935, in Gurdaspur, Punjab into a Rajput family. He was commissioned in the 1 Gorkha Rifles on 9 June 1957 and later went on to be part of a peace keeping mission which brought about his date with destiny.

THE BEGINNING

After the Belgians quit Congo, a civil war situation developed in that country. When the United Nations decided upon military intervention to retrieve the situation, India contributed a brigade of around 3000 men to the U.N. Force. In November 1961, the U.N. Security Council had decided to put a stop to the hostile activities of the Katangese troops in Congo. This greatly angered Tshombe, Katanga's secessionist leader, and he intensified his 'hate the UN' campaign. The result was more violence against UN personnel.

During the second half of November, while elements of 3/1 Gorkha Rifles were moving out for deployment within and around Elizabethville, there were violent attacks on UN personnel. On 28 November 1961, two senior UN officers were taken captive, beaten and later released. Major Ajit Singh of 3/1 Gorkha Rifles was also taken captive and his driver was brutally murdered, when they went to the rescue of some UN officials. Some days later, a company of 3/1 Gorkha Rifles was fired upon and many UN personnel were abducted from various parts of Elizabethville.The Gorkhas soon re-consolidated.

HIS HEROICS

On 5 December 1961, 3/1 Gorkha Rifles was ordered to clear a roadblock established by the enemy at a strategic roundabout at Elizabethville , Katanga . The plan was that Captian Gurbachan Singh Salaria with two sections of Gorkhas and two Swedish armoured personnel carriers would advance towards this roadblock from the airfield to act as a cutting-off force.

This small body, under Captain Gurbachan Singh Salaria, came under heavy fire from an enemy position when they reached about a mile from the road-block. Captain Salaria appreciating that he had run into a subsidiary roadblock and ambush and that this enemy force might reinforce the strategic post and thus jeopardize the main operation, decided to remove this opposition.

Captain Salaria was not deterred by the superior enemy strength and fire power. He decided to take the enemy, head-on, to achieve the objective. He once decided to attack the position which, it was later discovered, had about 90 men defending it together with two armoured cars. Supported by a rocket-launcher and bayonets, he led a charge with his bands, comprising just 16 Gorkhas, into a tactical position. They also used grenades and unsheathed khukris. Fully realizing the disproportionate ratio of force of his small platoon of 16 men, against more than 90 opponents, he soon rallied his men behind him and charged the enemy position in a fierce khukri assault.

In this gallant engagement, Captain Salaria killed 40 of the enemy and knocked out the two armoured cars. This unexpected bold action completely demoralised the enemy who fled despite their numerical superiority and protected positions. Captain’s bold action, ferocity of the attack and the blood curdling war cry of the Gorkhas - Ayo Gorkhali (The Gorkhas Have Arrived) and the flashing khukris was too much for the enemy, which fled in confusion leaving its dead and wounded behind.

By January 1962, the ONUC with the help of the Indian Brigade (particularly the 3/1 Gorkha Rifles), had creditably regained full control over Katanga, but not without the supreme sacrifice made by many Indian soldiers in 'blue berets' of the likes of Captain Gurbachan Singh Salaria. Captain Salaria was wounded in his neck by a burst of automatic fire but continued to fight till he collapsed due to profuse bleeding. His gallant action prevented any enemy movement towards the main battle scene and thus contributed very largely to the success of the main battalion’s action at the roundabout and prevented the encirclement of UN Headquarters in Elizabethville. Subsequently, he died of his grave wounds.

THE HONOUR

Captain Salaira’s personal example, utter disregard for personal safety and dauntless leadership inspired his small but gallant force of sixteen Gorkhas to hold on to their position, dominate the enemy and to inflict heavy casualties despite the enemy’s superiority in numbers and tactical position.

His courage and unflinching devotion to duty were in the best traditions of the Indian Army. For his extraordinary leadership and devotion to duty, Captain Gurbachan Singh Salaria was awarded the highest wartime medal, Param Vir Chakra, posthumously.

Captain Gurbachan Singh Salaria's brother unveiling his potrait at National Defence Acaddemy

"I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to the last man and the last round"

2009-09-02T04:01:00.000-07:00

Inspiration – The New Age Heroes

That was the last message of Major Somnath Sharma to the Brigade Headquarters a few moments before he was killed. Who is this Somnath Sharma afterall??? Ok, for most of us who are not aware....He was the first Indian soldier to receive our country’s highest wartime gallantry medal, Param Vir Chakra posthumously. He was an example of courage and qualities, seldom equaled in the history of the Indian Army. He was the man whose resilience scripted the history of Jammu and Kashmir. Major General Amarnath Sharma received the medal on behalf of his brave son.

Post 1947, we as a nation faced new challenges in the form of social and economical imbalances though we were politically independent. For almost two centuries we knew who our enemy was and shaped our struggle accordingly. But then came the time when the enemy could be one among our country men and any city could be a battleground. And we are extremely lucky to have the best men in the world fighting all the possible odds. Fighting the enemy. Facing the bullets. Dying alone in the snow. Falling to death from the high ridges. No one hears their scream. It's such a lonely death. A tiny piece of metal is all what it takes to die. They are our infantrymen. The finest in the world.

Their sagas may be short, but these are the people who not only fight their enemy, but the high terrains, steep valleys & hostile weather. In places like Batalik, Kargil there are no tracks. Climb. Clamber. Crawl. A soldier carries a week's ration, ammunition, a 5.56mm assault rifle or a mortar or a rocket launcher. He carries over 20 kgs on his back as he pulls himself up on this rugged, cruel terrain. No other soldier has ever fought at these heights. And Kargil was neither the beginning or the end of the wars for us. Our soldiers fight each and every day not just with Terrorists, Naxals, Ulfa covering the lenght and breadth of our country but in many other nations as part of UN Peace keeping mission. And on top of that, they are the people to come to the rescue of a child who is trapped in an open borewell or to the rescue of states hit by climatic calamities. I wish we could give them a break!! So, my journey of revisiting their heroics begins today!!!

Early Life

Major Somnath Sharma, son of Major General Amarnath Sharma, was born on 31 January 1923, in Himachal Pradesh. Valour and courage were in his genes as he was born into a family where shedding blood for their dear motherland was not something new. His brother, General V.N. Sharma, served as the Chief of Army Staff during 1988 to 1990. In May 1941, he was selected to join the IMA, Dehra Dun from where he was commissioned as Second-Lieutenant in the 8/19 Hyderabad Regiment- now the 4 Kumaon. He saw action in Burma with the 51 Infantry Brigade and at the early age of 21, he was appointed D.A. & Q.M.G. at his Brigade Headquarters. He was mentioned in despatches for his gallantry and for outstanding efficiency. From Burma he was posted to Malaya to assist in the process of rehabilitation of the population.

The Incredible Story

Immediately after Independence, on 22 October 1947, Pakistan launched the tribal invasion of Jammu & Kashmir. The intention was to grab the Kashmir valley by force. As the State became a part of the Union on October 26th, her protection became the responsibility of India. To save the State from a tribal invasion, which was approaching the valley at a very fast pace, India dispatched troops to Srinagar. The first batch of Indian troops reached just in time on October 27th morning to stop the enemy on the outskirts of Srinagar.

The D Company of 4 Kumanon (IC-521), led by Major Somnath Sharma, was airlifted to Srinagar on October 31st. When his company was asked to move to Srinagar, Major Sharma's arm was in plaster. He had suffered a fracture on the hockey ground and was advised rest till the plaster was removed. But he insisted on being with his company at this crucial hour and was allowed to go. Meanwhile, the 1 Sikh at Patan had blunted the main thrust of the tribal invasion of Srinagar. The enemy now resorted to guerilla tactics to sneak into the valley. But the induction of more troops into Srinagar enabled the Army to take care of the surrounding areas better. On November 3rd, a strong fighting patrol compromising 3 companies was dispatched to reconnoiter the Badgam area to look for raiders approaching Srinagar from the northern direction. By 0930 hrs the troops had established a firm base at Badgam.

As no enemy was seen during patrolling, two companies moved back to Srinagar by 1400 hrs. D Coy led by Major Sharma, which had taken up position south of Badgam, was, however, asked to stay on in the area till 1500 hours. At 1435 hours, D Coy was subjected to firing from some houses of Badgam village. The Coy did not return fire for fear of killing innocent people of the village. While Major Sharma was discussing this threat with the Brigade Commander, a large force of the enemy, about 700 strong, appeared from a depression to the west of his position. It attacked the coy with small arms, mortars and heavy automatics. The accurate and devastating fire of the enemy inflicted heavy casualties on D Coy.

Fully realizing the gravity of the situation and the direct threat that would result to both the aerodrome and Srinagar via Hum Hom, Major Somnath Sharma urged his company to fight the enemy tenaciously. With extreme bravery, he rushed across the open ground to his sections, exposing himself to enemy fire. Keeping his nerve, he skillfully directed the fire of his sections into the ever-advancing enemy. He repeatedly exposed himself to the full fury of enemy fire and laid out cloth strips to guide our IAF aircrafts onto their targets in full view of the enemy.

Realising that casualties had affected the effectiveness of his light automatics, this officer whose left hand was in plaster, personally commenced filling magazines and issuing them to the light machine gunners. A mortar shell landed right in the middle of the ammunition resulting in an explosion that killed him. He was all of 24 years old. Major Sharma’s company held on for another six hours against heavy odds. and the remnants withdrew only when almost completely surrounded. His inspiring example resulted in the enemy being delayed, thus gaining time for our reinforcements to get into position.

In the battle of Badgam, Major Sharma, one JCO and 20 other ranks were killed. But their sacrifices did not go in vain. He and his men stemmed the tide of the enemy advance on Srinagar and the airfield for some very crucial hours. His leadership, gallantry and tenacious defense were such that his men were inspired to fight the enemy by seven to one; six hours after this gallant officer had been killed. His last message to Brigade HQ, received a few moments before he was killed was, "The enemy are only 50 yards from us. We are heavily outnumbered. We are under devastating fire. I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to our last man and our last round." His answer is now part of the Army lore.

It has been my privilege to talk about all those pre Independence era heroes till date. But lest we forget the men who guard our borders every single day as we safely lead our own lives.

JAI JAWAN!!

“The issue is not of winning or losing. The spirit of fighting is more important"

2009-08-26T23:33:00.000-07:00

Inspiration

These were the words of Dr. Lakshmi Sehgal when asked why she was contesting a loosing battle against Dr APJ Abdul Kalam for the presidential post in 2002 & that was my first brush with the lady who is better known as Captain Lakshmi to generations of Indians. Very rarely did I hear about her heroics during my childhood, but then I realized that she has been part of the great historical transition India has seen from colonial subjugation to freedom. A freedom fighter, a dedicated medical doctor, an outstanding leader of the women' movement in India, and a presidential candidate at the age of 87 in 2002, Captain Lakshmi represents the progressive and secular traditions of the freedom movement & the struggle for democracy, women' emancipation and socialism in free India. And after Jhansi Lakshmi Bai, it would be very apt to pay tribute to a woman, for whom what matters, is her undying and untiring commitment towards humanity.

Early Life

Sahgal was born as Lakshmi Swaminathan on October 24, 1914 in Madras. She was the daughter of Dr S. Swaminathan, a leading lawyer practising Criminal Law at Madras High Court. Her mother was A.V. Ammukutty, better known as Ammu Swaminathan, a social worker and freedom fighter & hailed from the famous Vadakkath family of Anakkara in Palghat, Kerala. Even as a young girl, Lakshmi involved herself ardently in the nationalist programmes of smoldering foreign goods, including her own clothes and toys and picketing of liquor-vends. She decided to opt for studying medicine not from the point of view of embarking on a successful career but because she wanted to serve the poor, especially the poor women. As a result, she received an MBBS degree from Madras Medical College in 1938. A year later, she received her diploma in gynecology and obstetrics.

In 1940, she left for Singapore where she established a clinic for the poor, mostly migrant labor, from India. She became one of the most popular and prosperous gynecologists in the city. She established herself as a victorious, compassionate and exceptionally competent doctor.

Freedom Fighter

It was quite accidental that Captain Lakshmi Sehgal had happened to join the Indian National Army (INA) of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. In 1942, during the historic surrender of Singapore by the British to the Japanese, she worked hard in serving the prisoners of war who were hurt during the skirmishes. In the process, she came in contact with many Indian Prisoners of War (POWs) who were thinking of forming an Indian liberation army.

Events moved rapidly with the arrival of Subhash Chandra Bose in Singapore on July 2, 1943. The next few days, at all the public meetings, Netaji, as he was popularly known as, spoke of his fortitude to raise a women's regiment, the Rani of Jhansi regiment, for the freedom struggle of Indian Independence. On July 5, when he was inquiring whether there was any Indian woman in Singapore, who would be suitable for the task of leading a regiment, Menon instantaneously suggested the name of Lakshmi. She was brought to Bose quite late the same night due to his insistence on meeting her immediately. As soon as he put his proposal to her, she accepted it without a moment's uncertainty and the very next day, she began her preparations for the formation of the Rani of Jhansi Regiment of the INA. These preparations progressed very soon and, in a short time, a well-trained fighting force of women recruits took shape. This woman's army unit was the first of its kind in Asia. Lakshmi was also the sole woman member of the Cabinet on October 21, 943, when Provisional Government of Azad Hind was announced.

The Rani of Jhansi Regiment saw active duty at the front. Lakshmi, who was given the rank of a Colonel, was popular as Captain Lakshmi, and was active both at the military and on the medical front. She played a gallantry role by saving many lives because of her valor and dedication. She was finally captured and brought to India on March 4, 1946, where she received a heroine's welcome. But soon she was released, after the British authorities realized that keeping her a prisoner would be counter-productive. Lakshmi married Col. Prem Kumar Sehgal in March 1947, who was one among the many INA prisoners who were released from the Red Fort. They settled down in Kanpur.

Never Ending Public Service

After her release, Capt Lakshmi campaigned tirelessly for the release and rehabilitation of imprisoned and de-mobbed INA personnel and for the freedom of India. By traveling the length and breadth of the country she was not only able to collect huge funds for the INA soldiers' but also mobilize people against the colonial power. In 1971 she joined the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and represented them in the Rajya Sabha. The same year, when a massive influx of refugees came from what was then the East Pakistan into West Bengal, Lakshmi Sehgal worked industriously at a camp in Bongoan for several months. During the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, she single-handedly faced unruly crowds. Her presence was enough to make anti social elements retreat. She even brought several Sikhs home in a bid to protect them from the mayhem that had engulfed Kanpur.

Although never neglecting her medical work, she became very active in social activities. First the trade union and then the movement for women. She became the Vice-President of the largest woman's organization in the country; the All India Democratic Women' Association, which was formed in 1981, and has been actively involved in its activities, campaigns and struggles ever since.

Brush With Politics

In 2002 four leftist parties (Communist Party of India (Marxist), Communist Party of India, Revolutionary Socialist Party and All India Forward Bloc) nominated Lakshmi Sehgal as a candidate in the presidential elections. She was the sole counter-candidate to the eventual winner A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. She was the first woman candidate to contest for the country's highest constitutional post. She used the campaign and the all-India platform it created for her to campaign for issues that were dear to her heart - the issue of social and economic justice, women' empowerment, the secular traditions of the country and self-reliance.

Finally

Captain Lakshmi Sehgal has established a small maternity home in Kanpur which servers the poor till date. Her compassion and service to the poor have become legendary in the city. Adulation and awards mean very little to her. Her unpretentious manners and reticence are a source of bewilderment and motivation. Her untiring and everlasting commitment to humanity and its service are exceptional. Whether as a medical practioner or INA officer, service has been her motto. In 1998, she was awarded the Padma Vibhushan.

Sadly, in the autumn of her life, there is a sense of disappointment. She says it isn't just that the INA never got its due. "We have not yet achieved what had been our goal at that time. Our leader had always spoken of freedom and its three parts: political, financial and social. While we achieved the first, the rest is still unchanged. The position of women is still unfortunate. Social evils continue unabated. The caste system still thrives. Child marriages still take place and dowry deaths are still happening”. Inching her way through religious bigotry, male chauvinism, caste and economic exploitation, she continues to keep alive the INA's ideals of unity and equality for all Indians. Her yearning for freedom lives on. The fire still burns.

I tried to make India free and the attempt will not end with my life

2009-08-19T11:35:00.000-07:00

Inspiration

15th August has come and gone. So what, many might ask. So what if we safely treasure our ‘Patriotic’ spirit in a safe till 26th of January. How does it matter? But we all know “With great power comes great responsibility”…Yes its that famous dialogue from the Spiderman series, but the fact remains that we are enjoying the fruits of the dreams few young men of your and my age had, few decades ago. And its a pity that we take this hard earned freedom for granted. So I move on and continue to remember few more of such heroes even though many of my friends feel it’s just a waste of everyone's time. So be it, I say :-)

And how fitting it is to start with the above title that inspired many freedom fighters.The Pathan patriot who kissed the hang- man's noose with the name of Allah on his lips. A youth endowed with a body of iron and a will of steel, he dedicated everything to the service of India and of freedom and challenged the strenght of a mighty empire. It was Asfaqullah Khan.

Early Life

Ahfaqullah Khan was born on 22nd October 1900 in Shahjahanpur city of Uttar Pradesh. He hailed from a middle class family but had great traditional values. His father, Shafiqur Rahman was employed in police department. His mother's name was Mazharunissa. Ashfaq was the youngest amongst his six siblings. During his early days he was influenced by the air of revolution. He had strong patriotic feelings. He had also composed poems using pen names Hazrat and Varasi. His poems were mostly in Urdu & Hindi. He was in school when Non Cooperation Movement started. When Gandhiji withdrew the Movement he was disheartened. He wanted to see the Independent India as soon as possible.

Towards Revolution

His yearning made him join the revolutionaries. It was then that he decided to win the friendship of Ramaprasad, another revolutionary from Shahjahanpur. Pandit Ramaprasad Bismil was already a famous revolutionary. He was a member of the Arya Samaj and was eager to explain the greatness of the Hindu religion to those belonging to other religions, though he never bore any prejudice against any religious community. And so, Ashfaq who was a devout Muslim befriended him, and they both had the common objective of a free, united India and started working in unison. They ate and lived the revolutionary lives together. In the end both became martyrs on the same day.

Initially Ashfaq & Bismil along with other revolutionaries wanted to raise funds from the public but had to turn their way to theft due to lack of money. They started looting government funds. They used that money to buy arms and ammunition, for noble causes and to sustain the revolution. They were supported by other big leaders. But because of the differences in principles Gandhiji distanced himself. Ashfaqullah Khan, Bismil founded Hindustan Association. This Association published a manifesto called ‘Krantikari’ in 1925, spelling out its aims and objectives. The manifesto said it was wrong for one man to become rich by making another man work hard; it was also wrong for one man to be the master of another. The Association wanted to put an end to such things.

To give a fillip to their movement and to buy arms and ammunition for carry out their activities, the revolutionaries organized a meeting on August 8, 1925 in Shahjahanpur. After a lot of deliberations it was decided to loot the government treasury carried in the trains to raise funds. But Ashfaq thought about it thoroughly and sounded a word of caution to his mates & finally suggested that this deed be carried out without bloodshed. This was the beginning to the most daring exploit of those times.

Kakori Train Robbery

On August 9, 1925 when the No.8 Down Train from Shahjahanpur to Lucknow was approaching Kakori, the chain was pulled and the train stopped abruptly. Ashfaqulla and other revolutionaries, namely Pandit Ram Prasad Bismil, Rajendra Lahiri, Thakur Roshan Singh, Sachindra Bakshi, Chandrashekar Azad, Keshab Chakravarthy, Banwari Lal, Mukundi Lal, Manmathnath Gupta looted the train carrying British government money. Just ten young men had done this difficult job because of their courage, discipline, patience, leadership and above all, love for the country. They had written a memorable chapter in the history of India’s fight for freedom.

The Hunt Was On

A month passed after the Kakori dacoity, and yet no one was arrested. But the Government had spread a big net. On the morning of September 26, 1925 Ramaprasad was arrested and Ashfaq was the only one untraced by the police. Before the police could arrest him, he had escaped from his home and hid in a sugarcane field half a mile from his home. The police were tired of searching for Ashfaq.

He managed to reach Kashi after a difficult journey and met a few friends in the Benares University. They advised him to live quietly at least for some time. With the help of these friends he went to Bihar. He got a job as a clerk in an engineering firm at Daltonganj in Palamau district. He worked in the firm for about ten months. This long and forced rest became tiresome for him. So he went to Delhi to find out how he could go abroad and began making preparations. He took the help of one of his Pathan friend who in turn betrayed him by informing the police about his whereabouts. He was finally taken into custody. Tasadruk Khan then superintendent of police tried to play the caste politics with Ashfaq and tried to win him over by provoking him against Hinduism but Ashfaq was a strong willed Indian who surprised Tasadruk Khan by saying "Khan Sahib, I am quite sure that Hindu India will be much better than British India."

Ashfaqullah Khan was detained in the Faizabad jail. A case was filed against Ashfaqullah. His brother Riyasatullah was his counsel who fought the case till the very end. A committee had also been formed to defend the accused in the main case. Motilal Nehru was the chairman. There were eminent men like Jawaharlal, Sriprakasha, Acharya Narendra Dev, Govind Ballabh Pant and Chandra Bhanu Gupta on the committee.

Tryst With Destiny

While in jail, Ashfaqullah recited the Quran. The case for the Kakori dacoity was concluded by awarding death sentence to Pandit Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, Rajendra Lahiri and Thankur Roshan Singh. The others were given life sentences. The whole country protested against the death sentences. Members of the Central Legislature petitioned the Viceroy to reduce their death sentences into life sentences. Appeals were sent to the Privy council, the highest court in those days. But British imperialism was thirsting for the blood of the Indian revolutionaries.

On Monday, 19th December, 1927, Ashfaqullah Khan met his destiny and he is known to have taken two steps at a time, as he walked upto the post. When his chains were released, he reached for the rope and kissed it. "My hands are not soiled with the murder of man. The charge against me is false. God will give me justice. la ilahi il allah, mohammed ur rasool allah." The noose came around his neck and the movement lost one of its shining stars.

Finally

He walked into history, a fearless martyr, the first Muslim revolutionary to be hanged. There is a memorinal eshtablished for Ashfaqullah Khan in Shahjahanpur. He died at the early age of twenty seven but his deeds are remembered after so many generations. Hope, this reminds all of us the value of our freedom His devotion to the cause he admired, made him the foremost among those who gave their lives to win freedom for the country. Love for the motherland, clear thinking, courage, firmness and loyalty were embodied in Ashfaq to the hilt. He deserves to be remembered and cherished by all Indians for his noble qualities. He was a Lion among Men.

IT TAKES A LOUD VOICE TO MAKE THE DEAD HEAR

2009-08-15T01:52:00.000-07:00

Not anymore. A loud voice, a scream or even a death cannot change the pschye of the young brigade of today’s India who strongly believe in Million dollar dreams. Nothing wrong provided the options we have right now. With sensex crashing & markets tumbling, survival of the richest is the norm. And those who stick to their 20th century principles are usually left way behind in the muddy rat race. So why all this clichéd stuff now? Read on……..

Throughout my previous blogs (barring two, of pre 1857 era) there was a Gandhian principle hidden somewhere behind the motive of all the heroes we had met. And today on 15^th of August at the stroke of midnight hour ;-), I wake up to realize the fact that had it not been for those people who revolutionized our freedom struggle, I could have been a strong believer in Gandhigiri like many others. And these history lessons would never have bothered you all :-)

And my thoughts were wandering around as to what I should be writing on this very special day. Special is too small a word for this occasion. And I finally zeroed on writing a short and simple note on what inspired me to pen down my thoughts in first place. Confusing?? Ok, I believe it would be befitting that I pay tribute today, in small way to the legends who in many ways are responsible for what I am today. 15^th of August & 26^th of January would have been just another days at school, only difference being the white uniforms, sweets, etc (all part of the big goody bag those days) had it not been for these young Indians who were visionaries and ready to do whatever they could for living their dreams

I was quite a TV buff and fed on whatever DD National and DD Metro (better known as DD I & II ;-) ) served, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Swaraj was the TV series which in a way changed the way I think, talk & feel about our country. While Tipu’s saga planted the seeds, this series strengthened the roots for my passion. And then came, 26^th of January 1998 which was just like the icing on a cake. It was the day when I hoisted our National flag at my school. Saying that the moment is ‘just inexplicable’ would be a cliché. However that was a once in a lifetime opportunity. No, my life neither took a 360 degree turn nor did I have a dream of changing everything and anything. It influenced me to start thinking about these boys who were of my age but were the 'Men who mattered'. Men who believed in one principle - One in a million thinks and moves a million & millions move the Nation. And fortunately India not just had one or two of these charismatic men.

On March 24, 1931, an official notice pasted on the walls of the most prominent places in Lahore read:

“The public is hereby informed that the dead bodies of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev who were hanged yesterday evening (March 23) were taken out of the jail to the banks of the Sutlej where they were cremated according to Sikh and Hindu rites and the remains thrown into the river.”(Sd. Deputy Commissioner, Lahore)

The Sutlej is over 30 miles from Lahore. Lahore has its own river, Ravi. Hangings are almost always carried out at dawn. The departures from normal practice were a tribute to the image built up by the condemned men. They had forced the mightiest empire in the world to act in a surreptitious and cowardly manner in executing the heroes and disposing off their mortal remains. This one instance is enough to understand what those men were made of and what our country is missing today. Inquilaab Zindaabad (Long live the revolution) was their slogan and their story truly mirriored The State of the Nation during those times.

I was young, I was intelligent
I was smart but I couldn’t be like you.

I was everything that today’s youth aspire for
But I choose to fight for the dreams of millions.

The withdrawal of Non cooperation hurt me deep
I could not let the freedom struggle sink

The blows on Lalaji hit me hard
Saunders’ death was the only way to pay back their debt

I burnt their camps & robbed their money
I was their nightmare & answer to their tyranny

I had the courage and the zeal to fight my enemy
Instead of choosing to live just for me.

Decades later, you think of me & shed few tears
What if, that is the end of my memory-is my fear.

I am neither hurt by the poverty nor by any other evils
What hurts me the most is your indifference

I am Man for the Masses
I AM A REVOLUTIONARY

Bhagat Singh had once said, ‘You can kill individuals but you cannot kill ideas.’ Great empires have crumbled but ideas have survived.” Have they?? Keep thinking.

The Forgotten Tribal Hero - Alluri Sitarama Raju

2009-08-12T10:30:00.000-07:00

Inspiration

The year of 1897 has a special significance in our country’s struggle for freedom. This was the year in which our nation saw the birth of two revolutionaries who brought in an all new meaning to the word ‘Revolutionary’. One of them is Subhas Chandra Bose whom we have already met :-) . Alluri Sitarama Raju, also known as Aluri Rama Raju and Rama Chandra Raju is the second legend, a young Indian who fought a brave battle for the oppressed tribes. Apart from Jhansi Laksmi Bai, he is still the most popular character to be played by many children across various competetive forums, especially in Andhra Pradesh. The fact that I belong to the same soil might make many feel that I am biased. But the fact is, he remains an inspiring role model till date for those who fight against oppression. A terror to the alien rulers, Alluri Seetha Rama Raju was one of India’s early revolutionaries. This is my small tribute to the great hero whose story is lost somewhere in the pages of our history.

The only photograph of Raju, which was taken after his death is preserved in the A.P. State Archives, Hyderabad.

Early Life

He was born on July 4 1897 in Mogallu village of West Godavari district and was educated in Kakinada,Tuni & Rama-chandra-puram in East Godavari district. His father died when Alluri was in elementary school and he was brought up by his uncle, Rama Chandra Raju, a Tahsildar in Narsapur. He then studied in Taylor High School and had to shift to Tuni along with his mother, brother and sister, on the transfer of his uncle. He joined A.V.N. College in Visakhapatnam on September 20, 1912 but was a drop out after having failed in the fourth form (Std. IX). While in Tuni, Alluri used to frequent the agency areas of the Visakhapatnam district and became familiar with the tribal folks

He was deeply moved by the plight of the tribals, whose rights were infringed upon by the British with the implementation of the Madras Forest Act of 1882 which placed restrictions on their free movement in the forest areas and prevented them from engaging in their traditional cultivation, and use of the forest produce for their livelihood. The repressive measures and policies of the British Raj, coupled with the deeds of the greedy contractors who exploited the forced labourers of the hilly areas of Visakhapatnam district, brought Alluri Sita Rama Raju into direct conflict with the bureaucrats and police who supported these contractors. This eventually culminated in the Rampa Rebellion or Rampa Pituri (Pituri means complaints)

Beginning Of The Unrest

While he was studying at Kakinada he got his political contact with Sri Madduri Annapurnayya, a great freedom-fighter, and Rallapalli Atchuta Ramayya, a great scholar. At the age of 15, Raju was shifted to Visakhapatnam for his studies. Though he had little inclination for school education, he was very keen and began to acquire knowledge of the political situation in India. He went deep into Gond land where nearly a thousand tribals had sacrificed their lives during the first war of independence in 1857. He attended the A. I. C. C. sessions at Gaya in 1916 and at Kakinada in 1923 and got blessings of the top-ranking leaders of India. Raju inspired and organized the tribals to wage war against the British.

Soon Raju's plan of action took shape with vigour and quickness. He set free the revolutionary, Veerayya Dora from jail. The British Army got alerted and platoons of Police and Army were sent to capture Seetarama Raju. At Peddavalasa, Raju attacked the British Army. They were defeated during this battle and suffered very heavy casualties and retreated. From that day onwards there was a regular warfare between Raju and the Britishers. Raju came out triumphant in all. Virtually for two years from 1922 to 1924 Seetarama Raju ruled over vast agency area and became a terror to the British rulers.

The Rampa Rebellion

Sita Rama Raju carried out his campaign in the border areas of East Godavari and Visakhapatnam districts of Andhra Pradesh. Inspired by the patriotic zeal of the revolutionaries in Bengal, and the decisions taken by them at a meeting in Chittagong in 1921, Sita Rama Raju raided many police stations in and around Chintapalli, Krishna-devi-peta and Raja-vommangi, carrying off guns and powder, and killing several British army officers, including the Scott Coward and Hites. Between August and October 1922, he and his men attacked the various police stations and blasted the Chintapalli police station. Despite having fewer men and weapons, Alluri and his men exacted tremendous damage on the British. The British officers despite their superior weapons were no match to Alluri and his men, who were adept in guerilla tactics and knew the hilly terrain. They used to attack police stations and seize arms and ammunition. He carried a reward of Rs 10,000 on his head in those days.

Under the leadership of Saunders, the British deployed a company of the Assam Rifles, near Pedagaddapalem, in December 1922. Sita Rama Raju, who had by then gone underground, resurfaced after some four months and continued the fight, strengthened by tribal volunteers, using bows and arrows. He was assisted by two brothers, Mallu Dora and Gantam Dora, who were also tribal leaders.

Martyrdom

On September 18, 1923, Sita Rama Raju raided the Annavaram police outpost and subsequently, Mallu Dora was arrested. The Government entrusted the task of containing Sita Rama Raju's activities to Rutherford, the then Collector of Vizag District who had his first win when his forces arrested Surya Narayana Raju Pericherla, popularly known as Aggiraju, a strong follower of Sita Rama Raju.

Subsequently, Rama Raju was trapped by the British in the forests of Chintapalli and was shot dead without a trial in May 1924 in Mampa village while following the law of jungle instead of the judiciary system they were proud of. After the martyrdom of Alluri, the tribal revolt lost its momentum and petered off by October 1923.

Legacy

Sri Alluri Seetarama Raju is remembered as a great son in the annals of Indian History. He was born in a renowned Kshatriya clan and fought against the mighty British war machine, leading tribesmen of Andhra Pradesh with old traditional war weaponry. sacrificed his life true to his clan in the battle field.

Unfortunately, even fifty years after independence, Dalits and Adivasis have benefited least from the advent of freedom. Although independence has brought widespread gains for the vast majority of the Indian population, Dalits and Adivasis have often been left out, and new problems have arisen for the nation’s Adivasi population. They must have special access to educational, cultural and economic opportunities so as to reverse the effects of colonization and earlier injustices experienced by the Adivasi communities. That would be a fitting tribute to this fighter who was dearly known as Manyam Veerudu ('Hero of the jungles')

Tum Mujhe Khoon Do, Main Tumhe Azaadi Doonga..

2009-08-09T11:24:00.000-07:00

INSPIRATION

It was one of those Kamal Hassan’s movie during which my memory of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose had resurfaced after those text book days. Shyam Benegal’s tribute, ‘Bose-The Forgotten Hero’ is a fitting example of how well we remember this Indian who was a fierce patriot, a visionary leader, a great orator, flamboyant revolutionary, all rolled into one. Such was Bose's aura and magnetism that even those who differed with his strong views and firebrand politics could not help but appreciate his undying love for the nation. However his legacy continues as a legendary figure. Bose was outspoken in his anti-British stance and was jailed 11 times between 1920 and 1941. He was admired for his great skills in organization development.

Early Life

Subhash Chandra Bose was born on January 23 1897 in Cuttack, the ninth child among 14, of Janakinath Bose, an advocate, and Prabhavati Devi. Bose studied in an Anglo school, Cuttack until standard 6 which is now known as Stewart School and then shifted to Ravenshaw Collegiate School of Cuttack. A brilliant student, Bose topped the matriculation examination of Calcutta province in 1911 and passed his B.A. in 1918 in Philosophy from the Scottish Church College of the University of Calcutta. He was a devout Hindu and spent much time in meditation. Strongly influenced by Swami Vivekananda's teachings, he was known for his patriotic zeal as a student

Bose went to study in Fitz William Hall of the University of Cambridge, and his high score in civil service exams meant an almost automatic appointment. However following Amritsar massacre and the repressive Rowlatt legislation of 1919, he returned to India. Bose wrote for the newspaper Swaraj and took charge of publicity for the Bengal Provincial Congress Committee in 1924. In a roundup of nationalists in 1925, Bose was arrested and sent to prison in Mandalay.

"I AM AN EXTREMIST” – INFLUENCE IN INDIAN POLITICS

Bose advocated complete freedom for India at the earliest, whereas the Congress Committee wanted it in phases, through a Dominion status. Other younger leaders including Jawaharlal Nehru supported Bose and finally at the historic Lahore Congress convention, the Congress had to adopt Purna Swaraj (Total Independence) as its motto. Bhagat Singh's martyrdom and the inability of the Congress leaders to save his life infuriated Bose and he started a movement opposing the Gandhi-Irwin Pact. He was imprisoned and expelled from India. But defying the ban, he came back to India and was imprisoned again.

By 1938 Bose had become a leader of national stature and agreed to accept nomination as Congress president. He stood for unqualified Swaraj, including the use of force against the British. This meant a confrontation with Mohandas Gandhi, who in fact opposed Bose's presidency, splitting the Congress party. Bose attempted to maintain unity, but Gandhi advised Bose to form his own cabinet. Bose appeared at the 1939 Congress meeting on a stretcher. Though he was elected president again, over Gandhi's preferred candidate, this time the differences led to Bose resignation. Bose’ uncompromising stand finally cut him off from the mainstream of Indian nationalism. He then organized the Forward Bloc aimed at consolidating the political left.

The second World War broke out in September of 1939, and just as predicted by Bose, India was declared as a warring state (on behalf of the British) by the Governor General, without consulting Indian leaders. Subhas Chandra Bose now started a mass movement against utilizing Indian resources and men for the great war. To him, it made no sense to further bleed poor Indians for the sake of colonial and imperial nations. There was a tremendous response to his call and the British promptly imprisoned him. He took to a hunger-strike, and after his health deteriorated on the 11th day of fasting, he was freed and was placed under house arrest. The British were afraid of violent reactions in India, should something happen to Bose in prison.

INDIAN NATIONAL ARMY – "DELHI CHALO"

Bose suddenly disappeared in the beginning of 1941 and it was not until many days that authorities realized Bose was not inside the house they were guarding! He traveled by foot, car and train and resurfaced in Kabul, only to disappear once again. In November 1941, his broadcast from German radio sent shock waves among the British and electrified the Indian masses who realized that their leader was working on a master plan to free their motherland. It also gave fresh confidence to the revolutionaries in India who were challenging the British in many ways. It is told that he was last seen on land near Keil canal in Germany, in the beginning of 1943. A most hazardous journey was undertaken by him under water, covering thousands of miles, crossing enemy territories. He was in the Atlantic, the Middle East, Madagascar and the Indian Ocean. Battles were being fought over land, in the air and there were mines in the sea. At one stage he traveled 400 miles in a rubber dinghy to reach a Japanese submarine, which took him to Tokyo. He was warmly received in Japan and was declared the head of the Indian army, which consisted of about 40,000 soldiers who were mostly Indian prisoners of war from Singapore and Indian civilians in Southeast Asia. Bose called it the Indian National Army (INA) and a government by the name "Azad Hind Government" was declared on the 21st of October 1943. INA freed the Andaman and Nicobar islands from the British, and were renamed as Swaraj and Shaheed islands. The Government started functioning.

Bose wanted to free India from the Eastern front. Army leadership, administration and communications were managed only by Indians. Subhash Brigade, Azad Brigade and Gandhi Brigade were formed. INA marched through Burma and occupied Coxtown on the Indian Border. A touching scene ensued when the solders entered their 'free' motherland. Some lay down and kissed, some placed pieces of mother earth on their heads, others wept. They were now inside of India and were determined to drive out the British! Delhi Chalo was the war cry.

Three officers of the INA were tried after the war in Delhi; the trial attracted so much popular sympathy that the British decision to withdraw from India followed. Bose indirectly and posthumously achieved his goal of Indian independence.

ALLEGED DEATH

The bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki changed the history of mankind. Japan had to surrender. Bose was in Singapore at that time and decided to go to Tokyo for his next course of action. Unfortunately, Bose died in a plane crash over Taiwan, while flying to Tokyo on 18 August 1945. It is believed that the crash burnt him fatally. He was just 48. However, his body was never recovered, and many theories have been put forward concerning his possible survival. One such claim is that Bose actually died in Siberia, while in Soviet captivity. Several committees have been set up by the Government of India to probe into this matter. The Justice Mukherjee Commission of Inquiry submitted its report to the Indian Government on November 8, 2005. The probe said in its report that as Bose did not die in the plane crash, and that the ashes at the Renkoji Temple (said to be of Bose's) are not his.

Bose was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award in 1992, but it was later withdrawn in response to a Supreme Court directive following a Public Interest Litigation filed in the Court against the "posthumous" nature of the award.

LEGACY

Bose never liked the Nazis but when he failed to contact the Russians for help in Afghanistan he approached the Germans and Italians for help. His comment was that if he had to shake hands with the devil for India's independence he would do that. On the 5th April, 1944, the "Azad Hind Bank" was inaugurated at Rangoon. It was on this occasion that Netaji used a chair which can now be seen at Red Fort. The chair is now symbolic to the sovereignty of the Republic of India, as also to the Psychological upkeep of the Armed Forces of India. It rests in a glass case and is a symbol of pride as well as national heritage.

The Indian people were so much enamored of Bose's oratory and leadership qualities, fealressness and mysterious adventures, that he had become a legend. While Bose's approach to Indian freedom continues to generate heated debate in the Indian society today, there is no denying of his burning patriotism, his tireless efforts to free India from inside and outside and his reckless adventures in trying to reach his goals. His exploits later became a legend due to the many stories carried by the disbanded INA soldiers who came from every nook and corner of our great country. Had he lived, Subhas Chandra Bose could have given a new turn to Independent India's political history. But he lives on eternally in the Indian mind, more famous after his death.

Messiah of Downtrodden - Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar

2009-08-05T13:15:00.000-07:00

Inspiration

It was during my third standard that I remember, I had received a gift of pictorial biography of Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar. It was more of a comic book to me rather than a story of a Dalit leader who went onto become the chief architect of the Indian Constitution. It was much later that I realized that he was A Lion Among Men. Ambedkar was born in a cast which was considered as the lowest of the low. People said that it was a sin it they offered him water to drink. But this very man framed the Constitution for the country. His entire life was one of struggles. But it’s no wonder that everyone called him ‘Babasaheb’, out of love and admiration. Bhimram Ambedkar was the lion-hearted man who fought for equality, justice and humanity

Overcoming numerous social and financial obstacles, Ambedkar became one of the first "untouchables" to obtain a college education in India. Eventually earning law degrees and multiple doctorates for his study and research in law, economics and political science from Columbia University and the London School of Economics, Ambedkar returned home a famous scholar.

Early Life

Dr.Bhimrao Ambedkar was born on April 14, 1891 in Mhow (presently in Madhya Pradesh). He was the fourteenth child of Ramji and Bhimabai Sakpal Ambavedkar. B.R. Ambedkar belonged to the "untouchable" Mahar Caste. His father and grandfather served in the British Army. In those days, the government ensured that all the army personnel and their children were educated and ran special schools for this purpose. This ensured good education for Bhimrao Ambedkar, which would have otherwise been denied to him by the virtue of his caste. Bhimrao Ambedkar experienced intense socio-economic discrimination right from the childhood. After his retirement, Bhimrao's father settled in Satara Maharashtra. Bhimrao was enrolled in the local school. Here, he had to sit on the floor in one corner in the classroom and teachers would not touch his notebooks. In spite of these hardships, Bhimrao continued his studies and passed his Matriculation examination from Bombay University with flying colours in 1908. Although excelling in his studies, Ambedkar was increasingly disturbed by the segregation and discrimination that he faced. He then joined the Elphinstone College for further education. In 1912, he graduated in Political Science and Economics from Bombay & obtained a scholarship of twenty five rupees a month from the Gayakwad ruler of Baroda, for higher studies in the USA. Ambedkar's marriage had been arranged in 1906 as per Hindu custom, to Ramabai, a nine-year old girl from Dapoli.

Fight against untouchability

In 1920, he began the publication of the weekly Mooknayak (Leader of the Silent) in Mumbai. Attaining popularity, Ambedkar used this journal to criticize orthodox Hindu politicians and a perceived reluctance of the Indian political community to fight caste discrimination. Ambedkar established a successful legal practice, and also organised the Bahishkrit Hitakarini Sabha to promote education and socio-economic uplifting of the depressed classes. In 1927, Dr. Ambedkar decided to launch active movements against untouchability. He began with public movements and marches to open up and share public drinking water resources and also began a struggle for the right to enter Hindu temples.

He had grown increasingly critical of mainstream Indian political parties for their perceived lack of emphasis for the elimination of the caste system. Ambedkar criticized the Indian National Congress, whom he accused of reducing the untouchable community to a figure of pathos. At a Depressed Classes Conference on August 8, 1930 Ambedkar outlined his political vision, insisting that the safety of the Depressed Classes hinged on their being independent of the Government and the Congress both.

Ambedkar's prominence and popular support amongst the untouchable community had increased, and he was invited to attend the Second Round Table Conference in London in 1931. These activities brought Ambedkar in collision with Mahatma Gandhi. Although Gandhi paternally sought to improve the condition of untouchables, he rejected Ambedkar's militant demand that untouchables mobilize politically and be given a status separate from that of other Hindus. Conflict between the leaders continued, punctuated by threats of fasts to the death and shaky compromises.

In 1935, Ambedkar was appointed principal of the Government Law College, a position he held for two years. One year later, Ambedkar founded the Independent Labour Party, which won 15 seats in the 1937 elections to the Central Legislative Assembly. He published his book The Annihilation of Caste the same year. Between 1941 and 1945, he published a large number of highly controversial books and pamphlets, including Thoughts on Pakistan, What Congress and Gandhi Have Done to the Untouchables. Ambedkar was also critical of Islam and its practices in South Asia. While he was extremely critical of Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the communally divisive strategies of the Muslim League, he argued that Hindus and Muslims should segregate and the State of Pakistan be formed, as ethnic nationalism within the same country would only lead to more violence. He warned that the actual implementation of a two-state solution would be extremely problematic with massive population transfers and border disputes. This claim was prophetic, looking forward to the violent Partition of India after Independence

Architect of India's constitution

Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar is better remembered as the designer and formulator of the Indian Constitution in India. Upon India's independence on August 15, 1947, the new Congress-led government invited Ambedkar to serve as the nation's first law minister, which he accepted. On August 29, Ambedkar was appointed chairman of the Constitution Drafting Committee. Ambedkar won great praise from his colleagues and contemporary observers for his drafting. Although Ambedkar used Western models to give his Constitution shape, its spirit was Indian.The text prepared by Ambedkar provided constitutional guarantees and protections for individual citizens, including freedom of religion, the abolition of untouchability and the outlawing of all forms of discrimination Ambedkar argued for extensive economic and social rights for women. He framed the Fundamental Rights and Duties along with the Directive Principles of State Policy that are followed and granted to the people of the country (Remember anything from school texts??). He had kept the clauses of the Constitution flexible so that amendments could be made as and when situations demanded. On 26 November 1949, the Constitution of India was finally adopted by the Constituent Assembly.

His stint in Indian politics too did not last for a long time. His resignation from the Cabinet came in the year 1951. He contested for the Lok Sabha elections as an independent candidate in 1952 but was unfortunately defeated. However, he became a member of the Rajya Sabha the same year and would remain a member until his death.

Final Days

With passage of time, Ambedkar’s interest from politics started to shift and he aligned himself to Buddhism. After meetings with the Sri Lankan Buddhist monk Hammalawa Saddhatissa, Ambedkar organised a formal public ceremony for himself and his supporters in Nagpur on October 14, 1956 and completed his own conversion.

Since 1948, Ambedkar had been suffering from diabetes. He was bed-ridden from June to October in 1954 owing to clinical depression and failing eyesight. He had been increasingly embittered by political issues, which took a toll on his health. His health worsened as he furiously worked through 1955. Just three days after completing his final manuscript The Buddha and His Dhamma , it is said that Ambedkar died in his sleep on December 6, 1956 at his home in Delhi. Five hundred thousand people witnessed the last rites.

Long Live His Legacy

Babasaheb was an Indian nationalist, jurist, Dalit, political leader, activist, philosopher, thinker, anthropologist, historian, orator, prolific writer, economist, scholar, editor, revolutionary and the revivalist of Buddhism in India. Born into a poor Untouchable family, Ambedkar spent his whole life fighting against social discrimination & the system of Chaturvarna — the Hindu categorization of human society into four varnas. His birthdate is celebrated as a public holiday known as Ambedkar Jayanti. He was posthumously bestowed with India's highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna in 1990.

Ambedkar's legacy as a socio-political reformer, had a deep effect on modern India. In post-Independence India his socio-political thought has acquired respect across the political spectrum. His message to his followers was " Educate!!!, Organize!!!, Agitate!!!". He had said many times "God will spare me till I complete my work for the ‘untouchables’. "He lived to see ‘untouchability’ declared a crime. The ‘untouchables’ had secured political equality.

The Architect of Modern India - MAULANA ABUL KALAM AZAD

2009-08-01T12:55:00.000-07:00

Inspiration

"If Swaraj is delayed, it is the loss to India, but if Hindu-Muslim Unity is lost, it is the loss to humanity." The man who worked for a modern India with secular credentials, a cosmopolitan character and international outlook. He stood for a learning society through liberal, modern and universal education combining the humanism of Indian arts, a society where the strong are just and the weak secure, where the youth is disciplined and the women lead a life of dignity - a non-violent, non-exploiting social and economic order. A man like Maulana Azad is born rarely.

Early Life

Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was born on November 11, 1888 in Mecca. He belonged to an orthodox Muslim scholar family. The original name of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was Abul Kalam Ghulam Muhiyuddin. His ancestors came to India from Afghanistan. His mother was an Arab and his father Maulana Khairuddin, was a Bengali Muslim of Afghan origin. She died when he was only 11 years old.

Azad mastered several languages, including Urdu, Arabic, Hindko, Persian and Hindi. He was also trained in the subjects of shariat , mathematics, philosophy, world history and science by reputed tutors hired by his family. He also acquired huge knowledge in English & politics. A unique quality about him was that he always remained much ahead of his age, in years, in many fields. An avid and determined student, the precocious Azad was running a library, a reading room, a debating society before he was twelve, wanted to write on the life of Ghazali at twelve, was contributing learned articles to Makhzan (the best known literary magazine of the day) at fourteen, was teaching a class of students, most of whom were twice his age, when he was merely fifteen and succeeded in completing the traditional course of study at the young age of sixteen, nine years ahead of his contemporaries, and brought out a magazine at the same age. In fact, in the field of journalism, he was publishing a poetical journal (Nairang-e-Aalam) and was already an editor of a weekly (Al-Misbah), at the age of twelve and, in 1903, brought out a monthly journal, Lissan-us-Sidq, which soon gained popularity. At the age of thirteen, he was married to a young Muslim girl, Zuleikha Begum.

Revolutionary & Journalist

Azad developed political views considered radical for most Muslims of the time and became a full-fledged Indian nationalist. He fiercely criticized the British for racial discrimination and ignoring the needs of common people across India. He also criticized Muslim politicians for focusing on communal issues before the national interest and rejected the All India Muslim League's communal separatism. He became increasingly active in revolutionary activities, to which he was introduced by the prominent Hindu revolutionaries Sri Aurobindo and Shyam Sundar Chakravarthy.

Azad established an Urdu weekly newspaper in 1912 called Al-Hilal and openly attacked British policies while exploring the challenges facing common people. Azad's publications were aimed at encouraging young Muslims into fighting for independence and Hindu-Muslim unity. Azad started a new journal, the Al-Balagh, which increased its active support for nationalist causes and communal unity. With his popularity increasing across India, the government outlawed Azad's second publication and he was incarcerated until January 1, 1920.

Upon his release, Azad returned to a political atmosphere which was charged with sentiments of outrage and rebellion against British rule due to passage of the Rowlatt & the killing of unarmed civilians at Jallianwala Bagh. He organised the people of the region and pioneered the art of Satyagraha - combining mass civil disobedience with complete non-violence and self-reliance. Non-violence and Hindu-Muslim unity were universally emphasized.

Azad entered the Indian National Congress in 1920. In 1923, he became the youngest man to be elected Congress President. In the following years, Azad travelled across India, working extensively to promote Gandhi's vision, education and social reform. When Gandhi embarked on the Dandi Salt March that inaugurated the Salt Satyagraha in 1930, Azad organized and led the nationalist raid. The biggest nationalist upheaval in a decade, Azad was imprisoned along with millions of people, and would frequently be jailed from 1930 to 1934 for long periods of time. In 1942, Congress President Azad inaugurated the struggle with a vociferous speech exhorting Indians into action. Just two days later, the British arrested Azad and the entire Congress leadership.

Independence & Partition

With the end of the war, the British agreed to transfer power to Indian hands. All political prisoners were released in 1946. India's partition and independence on August 15, 1947 brought with it a scourge of violence that swept the all of India. Azad took up responsibility for the safety of Muslims in India, touring affected areas in Bengal, Bihar, Assam and the Punjab, guiding the organization of refugee camps, supplies and security. Azad gave speeches to large crowds encouraging peace and calm in the border areas and encouraging Muslims across the country to remain in India and not fear for their safety and security. He was free India's first Education Minister and guided the destinies of the Nation for eleven years. He served in the Constituent Assembly to draft India's constitution. In 1956, he served as president of the UNESCO General Conference held in Delhi.

Final Days

Azad spent the final years of his life focusing on writing his book India Wins Freedom, an exhaustive account of India's freedom struggle and its leaders, which was published in 1957. This great leader passed away on February 22, 1958 due to a stroke. For his invaluable contribution to the nation, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was posthumously awarded India's highest civilian honour, Bharat Ratna in 1992.

The Long Legacy

Azad is remembered amongst the leading Indian nationalists of his time. His firm belief in Hindu-Muslim unity created a niche in the hearts of all patriotic Indians. He still remain one of the most important symbols of communal harmony in modern India. Azad was the staunchest opponent of partition of India into India and Pakistan. Partition shattered his dream of a unified nation where the Hindu and Muslim faiths would learn to co-exist in harmony. His work for education and social uplift in India made him an important influence in guiding India's economic and social development. He adopted the pen name "Azad" to signify his freedom from traditional Muslim ways.

Packed with several achievements, Maulana Azad oversaw the establishment of a national education system with free primary education and modern institutions of higher learning. The very recent decision of the Union Ministry of HRD, Government of India to declare his birthday as National Education Day is a treatise on the life, struggle, and contribution of the great educationist of the country. Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was the first to raise the issue of the National System of Education which believed in all students, irrespective of caste, creed, location or sex have access to education of a comparable quality

The wealth of the nation, according to Maulana Azad, was not in the country's banks but in primary schools. He is one of those rare personalities through whom the distinctions of the 20th century can be recognized and possibilities of the 21st century determined. He established National Academies viz the Sangeet Natak Academy (1953), Sahitya Academy (1954) and Lalit Kala Academy (1954), the Indian Council for Cultural Relations(1950) & also the University Grants Commission (UGC) in 1956. His greatest contribution, however, is that in spite of being an eminent scholar of Urdu, Persian and Arabic he stood for the retention of English language for educational advantages and national and international needs. On the technical education side, he strengthened the All Indian Council for Technical Education (AICTE). The Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur (IIT-K) was established in 1951 followed by a chain of IIT's at Bombay, Madras and Kanpur and Delhi.

The National Education day is a goodwill gesture for our policy makers to re-think of change in India's present system of education which is not at par with the desires of its children.

THE IRON MAN OF INDIA

2009-07-30T08:34:00.000-07:00

Inspiration

As a child, I always heard the stories of atrocities of Razakars from my grandmother and wondered how tough was it to survive the post partition period in Hyderabd. People had to leave their homes and run for shelter. That is when I realized that the magnitude of problems would have been unthinkable had there not been a Sardar Patel who almost single-handedly unified India on the eve of independence. He was a hero among heroes, a lion among men

Early Life

Vallabh Bhai Patel, the Iron-man of India was born on 31st October, 1875 in Nadiad, Gujarat. His father Jhaber Bhai Patel was a farmer and had fought bravely againt British in 1857 as a young man. His mother Laad Bai was a simple lady. Vithalbhai, Vallabhbhai's elder brother, was also a well-known patriot. From his childhood itself, Patel was a very hard-working individual. He used to help his father in farming and studied in a school at Patelaad. He passed his high-school examination in 1896. Throughout school he was a very wise and intelligent student. In spite of poor financial conditions his father decided to send him to college but Vallabh Bhai refused. For around three years he stayed at home, worked hard and prepared for the District Leader’s examinaton, hence coming through with flying colors.

He started his own practice of law in a place called Godhra. Soon the practice flourished. He saved money, made financial arrangement for the entire family. He got married to Jhaverba. He became a barrister in England and returned to India in 1913. After his return, he setup a lucrative practice in Ahmadabad. Around this time the struggle for freedom was gaining a lot of momentum.

Endless Public Service

In 1915 he met Mohandas Gandhi and within a short time became one of his closest associates, a staunch nationalist and a supporter of the Indian National Congress. He became an extremely popular person and he got elected to Municipal Corportaion in 1917. Patel came to prominence as the organizer of the Kheda satyagraha (1918) in which peasants sought exemption from land tax. A talented organizer, he successfully directed the civil-disobedience campaigns of the 1920s and 30s; several times he suffered imprisonment. In 1920, the Congress started the non-cooperation struggle and Vallabhbhai gave up his practice. He setup the Gujarat Vidyapeeth where children could study instead of attending Government schools. In 1928 he successfully organized the landowners of Bardoli against British tax increases. It was after this that Vallabhbhai was given the title of Sardar.

He was mayor of Ahmedabad (1924–28) and was elected (1931) president of the Indian National Congress. Later he joined M. K. Gandhi in the Salt satyagraha and was jailed for sixteen months. In 1942 he was imprisoned again, with other Congress leaders, for refusing to support the British war effort in World War II.

Patel played an important role in the negotiations that led to independence and the partition of the subcontinent into the two states of India and Pakistan. It was India's good fortune that in 1947 he was made deputy Prime Minister of India and Minister of State affairs. Holding these offices until his death, he affected the complex and difficult feat of integrating the many princely states into the new Indian political structure. As Minister for Home Affairs Patel was responsible for law and order and the rehabilitation of refugees displaced by the partition. He proved an able administrator and reorganized the public service with the launch of the Indian Administrative Service to replace the colonial Indian civil service.

The Architect of India

Patel's lasting achievement was the integration of 562 Indian (princely) states into the Indian Union. In this task Patel acted ruthlessly using force and persuasion alike. He successfully completed this tough task when most of the rulers were dreaming of becoming independent rulers once the British quit India. Those 600 states would have been 600 sores in the body of India. There would have been many Kashmirs by now. Because of Patel’s efforts most of the states joined Indian Union before 15^th of August. The way he handled rulers of Junagadh and Hyderabad who were plotting secretly to join Pakistan by sending the army shows the resolve of this mighty man. It is because of these strong steps that earned him the title of "The man of steel". Patel's decisiveness on the partition of Punjab and Bengal had won him many supporters and admirers amongst the Indian public, which was tired of the Muslim League's tactics.

However, neither he nor any other Indian leader had foreseen the intense violence and population transfer that would take place with partition. Patel would take the lead in organizing relief and emergency supplies, establishing refugee camps and visiting the border areas with Pakistani leaders to encourage peace. His address to the massive crowd of an estimated 200,000 refugees who had surrounded his car after a meeting in Amritsar had such an effect that no further attacks occurred against Muslim refugees, and a wider peace and order was re-established soon over the entire area.

Death of the Bharat Ratna

Soon after Gandhi’s death in 1948, Patel suffered a major heart attack; Speaking later, Patel attributed the attack to the "grief bottled up" due to Gandhi's death. However on the morning of 15th December, 1950 Sardar Vallabhbhai passed away in Bombay. He died of a cardiac arrest. The news of his death spread all over the world. The General of Bardoli, Friend of the peasents, The servant of the people, The Iron Man, the Lion of Gujarat, India's Man of Steel, the Sardar of the country's fight for freedom, the Mighty Architect of the integrity of India, the Vallabhbhai Patel of rock-like will power, was no more. He was then seventy-five.

Finally

One day Vallabhbhai had to appear in a very important case. He was arguing before the judge with the utmost concentration. He was still on his feet when an urgent telegram was handed to him. He glanced at the contents and folded and put the paper in his pocket, and went on with the argument. It was only after he concluded his speech and sat down that even those near him learnt the contents of the telegram -his wife was dead! Such was his sense of duty.

As long back as on the 7th of November 1950, Patel wrote a letter to Jawaharlal Nehru and declared that China was not to be trusted. He wrote: 'The Government of China speaks of its desire for peace and is trying to mislead us. Hereafter, in planning the defense of our country,we must remember the intentions of Communist, China.' Five weeks later Patel passed away. About twelve years after his death China attacked India. Such was Sardar Patel’s foresight.

When in England, the glitter and luxury of fashionable life did not tempt him. He stood first in the Barrister-at-Law Examination. With a will of iron he completed whatever task he had under taken. The way he organized relief to flood & famine victims in Gujarat made the world realize that he was not only a great fighter but also a superb organizer. However he was plain in speech and action. He did not believe in making speeches. He was a man of very few words and was honest in word and deed. In 1991 the grateful nation conferred upon him the highest civilian honour of 'Bharat Ratna'

THE LION OF PUNJAB

2009-07-26T02:23:00.000-07:00

Inspiration

It has been two days since the 10th anniversary of Kargil victory was commemorated and time for me to rewind once again to those days when a commom man could defy authority, uphold the truth and refused to bow before tyrants. And it has to be a persona like ‘The Lion of Punjab’ who along with Bal Gangadhar Tilak & Bipin Chandra Pal (the famous trio of Lal-Bal-Pal we already know) were the first Indian leaders to demand complete political independence & wanted a degree of self-government that was considered radical at the time.

However, my first brush with this great man’s legacy came only when I realized that this was the man whose death gave birth to another inspirational revolutionary, Bhagat Singh. The kinetics of nationalism is moved by the fuel of sweat and blood. When courage and integrity withstand oppression, history is the natural offshoot. Lala Lajpat Rai’s death goaded revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev to lay down their lives at the altar of freedom.

Birth & Early Life

Lala Lajpat Rai was born on 28th Jan, 1865 at a village named Dhudike in Ferozepur District of Punjab. His father, Munshi Radha Krishan Azad was a great scholar of Persian and Urdu. Lalaji's mother, Smt Gulab Devi, a strict religious lady, inculcated in her children strong moral values. Lalaji was brought up in a family background that allowed freedom of having different faiths and beliefs. Since childhood he had a desire to serve his country. In 1884 his father was transferred to Rohtak and Lala Lajpat Rai came along.

In college he came in contact with patriots and future freedom fighters like Lala Hans Raj and Pandit Guru Dutt. He passed his Vakilship Examination (Law exams) from Government College in 1885 and started his legal practice at Rohtak but moved Hissar. Lalaji's early legal practice at Hissar was very successful. His life of six years in Hissar became the apprenticeship for public service. He was elected to the Hissar municipality as a member and later as secretary. Lalaji started attending the meetings of the Congress Party and became an active worker in the Hissar-Rohtak region. He shifted to Lahore in 1892.

Vision

Like Lala Lajpat Rai believed that patriotism is not a short and frenzied outburst of emotion but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime. He was convinced that India is one nation and that it belongs to all its inhabitants. To quote him:

"If Mother India is proud of Nanak, she is also proud of Chishti. If she had an Ashoka, she had an Akbar too. If she had a Chaitanya she had Kabir also; .... she can as well be proud of her Khusros, Faizs, Ghalibs, Zauqs, Farishtas and Gnimats as she can be of a Valmiki, Kalidasa, Tulsidas, Ram Das, Chand Nasin and Guru Gobind Singh".

Lala Lajpat Rai favoured a system of education which would inculcate higher values in an individual, awaken in him the desire to serve his motherland and yet help him to develop a global vision.

Endless Public Service

By establishing the Depressed Classes Education Society (1911), Servants of People Society (1921) and All- India Achhut Uddhar Committee (1924), Lala Lajpat Rai provided a great fillip to the movement of social reform. His humanitarianism came to the fore when he arranged help for the victims of famine during 1898-1900. When people fleeing the famine reached Lahore, they spent that night at Lalaji's house. In 1898, Lalaji curtailed his legal practice and vowed to devote all his energy for the nation. The Kangra district of Punjab suffered destruction in the earthquake of 1905. Lalaji was there once again, organizing relief for extricating people from the debris.

Lala Lajpat Rai founded the Indian Home Rule League of America in October 1917 & Lalaji returned to India on Feb 20, 1920 as a great hero. He presided over the First Indian Trade Union Congress at Bombay in 1920, and was one of its founder members. Its purpose was "to further the interests of Indian Labour in matters economic, social and political" and "to coordinate activities of all organizations". In 1926, he represented Indian Laborers at the 8th International Labour Conference held at Geneva and created a great impression.

In the field of business, he promoted the growth of Punjab National Bank and sponsored Lakshmi Insurance Company Ltd. His contribution to the field of education was immense — the DAV College which grew under his patronage, and National College, Lahore, which he founded became nurseries of intellectuals, revolutionaries and reformers. Dwarka Das Library now housed in Chandigarh and Gulab Devi Hospital, Jalandhar, are among the living monuments of his work and vision.

Lala Lajpat Rai’s creativity expressed itself in almost all walks of life. 'He was not only a good orator but also a prolific and versatile writer. To spread the message of Swaraj, Swadeshi and social reform he founded three papers — Punjabee, Bande Matram (Urdu) and People (English) besides publishing a number of books and tracts. He instituted the ‘Tilak School of Politics’ to keep alive the idea that political rights could not be achieved by speeches or resolutions but by sacrifice.

Rai led the Punjab protests against the Jalianwala Bagh Massacre (1919) and the Non-Cooperation Movement (1919 - 1922) and he was repeatedly arrested. He founded the ‘Servants of the People Society’, which worked for the freedom movement as well as for social reform in the country.

Contribution

Lalaji injected new life in his countrymen. His writings and speeches were both hard hitting and effective. They swayed those they aimed to reach. He was a crusader, who knew no fear and championed every worthy cause with all the passion of his soul. He was indeed ‘The Punjab Kesari’, The Lion of Punjab. His love for service was insatiable. He founded educational institutions. He befriended the suppressed classes. In the political field he was indispensable. He was an ardent social reformer.

The Fatal blow

In 1928, British Government decided to send Simon Commission to India to discuss constitutional reforms. The Commission had no Indian member. This greatly angered Indians. A strong believer in leading by example, he himself led a procession in Lahore on Oct 30, 1928 to demonstrate against the Simon Commission, which was to prove fatal for him. While Lalaji tried his level best to keep the demonstration peaceful, the police targeted him and wounded him on his chest. The people were enraged at this insult and held a meeting the same evening. Lalaji, though in intense pain, spoke with such vigor that his words, "...every blow aimed at me is a nail in the coffin of British Imperialism...." became historic. Though he recovered from the pain within three days, his health had received a permanent setback and on November 17, 1928, he succumbed to the fatal injuries.

Legacy

"No man is truly great who is great only in his lifetime. The test of greatness is the page of history", wrote William Hazlitt. If this yardstick is applied to Lala Lajpat Rai, he emerges as a giant among historic personages. The lesson which the Lion of Punjab Lala Lajpat Rai taught the country was to be brave. To the Indians in the chains of slavery his message was "Begging or prayer cannot bring freedom. You can win it only through struggle and sacrifice."

Lalaji once said: "If I had the power to influence Indian journals, I would have the following headlines printed in bold letters on the first page:

Milk for the infants
Food for the adults
Education for all,"

Its Vijaya Dashmi and not just Vijay Diwas

2009-07-25T23:17:00.000-07:00

Today is 26th of July and I ought to break the chronology and mention something which inspired me to write this series ‘Lest We Forget’ I have to rewind & recollect our heroes whom I had watched on Television during the Kargil war. It is the ‘Kargil Diwas’. On 26th July 2009 we happen to commemorate 10th anniversary of the war. A war when 19, 20 year olds had whatever it takes to recapture those high peaks fighting an enemy who were placed comfortably. They had traversed the journey from being Boys to be the Men that matter too fast and met their end too soon. The wounds can never heal for those 527 families & the scars will remain forever with the wide gap left behind by those brave men. They have lost a dear member of their family. But life as they say has to move on!!

“How I wish it was just another day at work

and I was one more day nearer to go home

How I wish I saw my little baby
hugged her and just spent with her a little more time

How I wish I touched those feet of my mom
and wiped those teary eyes of her

How I wish I spoke to my better half one last time
and just told her how much I love her”

Those dreadful sequence of events right from the infamous Bus trip of our then PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee to Lahore till 26th of July when the Indian victory over Pakistan was complete, have left an indelible impression on me and I wish to pay my tribute to each and every soldier who was part of the Operation Vijay in this very small way.

Our soldiers were not just fighting enemy but extreme climatic conditions, high terrains, altitude peaks and ridgelines most of which are over 16000 ft. Lt Manoj Kumar Pandey, Rifleman Sanjay Kumar, CAPT ANUJ NAYYAR, Vikram Batra, Saurabh Kalia, Padmaphani Acharya, Yogendra Singh Yadav are just few of those countless heroes this very war had seen. All of 19, 20 years old, these were the ‘Men’ for whom First comes Their country, then it’s the Army, followed by their dear colleagues & thoughts about themselves only come in last.

“I live and I die
On those high terrains, air and sea
I do it for just for you & your family
And never for me

I fear neither the enemy
Nor even the fact that I may not see the next dawn
I only fear for my family
As they just have my memories to live on

I shed my blood & face the odds
Neither doing it for fame nor for any riches
I am aware of my enemy who fights with the same valour
Which makes me realise to 'Fight but with Honour' ”

Some moments are best felt in silence and all that these wonderful human beings who believed in ‘Fight with honour’ wish for, is solace to their family and if possible few minutes of our time to remember their valour while protecting our frontiers so we could safely say ‘India is my motherland’

“Forget the history & forget the lessons

Remember me as just another human being but with a difference
If you can, lend some solace to my near and dear
And just dont limit me to potraits, garlanded twice in a year”

Satyameva Jayathe

2009-07-25T04:55:00.000-07:00

These were the two words a tireless campaigner who brought large sections of his countrymen into the national struggle had once said. This slogan has forever been embossed on our Natinal Emblem and will continue to remind many generations to come that only ‘Truth will conquer’. Little did I know about him until I saw the court rooms in our movies where these very words are of utmost importance :-)…

Inspiration

Mahamana [an honorific] Pandit Madan Mohan Malavlya was an outstanding and noble son of India. He was a shining star on firmament of tumultuous history of the nineteenth century. He is the epitome of tolerance of Indian life style, of liberal Indian mind and political, economic, intellectual and cultural struggle of our country. His immortal creation, Banaras Hindu University, is not only the Capital of oriental learning but has also been the symbol of national consciousness and cultural renaissance. He made education the prime means for national awakening.

The Persona

His very life was a great inspiration for the youth. The masses could reach him easily unlike any other leader of his stature. Service to the poor and afflicted was the ideal and fact of his life. Public service was no mere means for popularity and prestige. He commanded equal respect from the educated as well as the masses. Except Gandhiji and Lokmanya Tilak, there was no other leader popular like him. Modesty and grace were hallmark of his personality. He was the first public speaker of his time with thorough command over Sanskrit, Hindi, and English. Despite possessing such' power and prestige he was extraordinarily modest. He did not have an iota of arrogance. He was simplicity personified.
His multifaceted personality made him, at the same time, a great patriot, an educationist with a vision, a social reformer, an ardent journalist, reluctant but effective lawyer, a successful parliamentarian and an outstanding statesman. The Indian people conferred on him the affectionate title of "Mahamana."

Early Life

Madan Mohan Malaviya, was born on 25th December 1861 on Wednesday, at Prayag (Allahabad), in a literate but financially poor family. His grandfather Pt. Premdhar was a great Sanskrit scholar, Madan Mohan's education began at the age of five when he was sent to Pandit Hardeva's Dharma Gyanopadesh Pathshala. He matriculated in 1879 and completed law education but his earnest eagerness to serve the nation prevailed upon his legal profession. Interested in study of scriptures at a young age, he grew into a bright intellectual. At sixteen he got married to Kundan Devi of Mirzapur. He was a proud husband. After taking B.A. Degree in 1884 he began teaching He wanted to study further but could not because of poverty of his family. He proved a successful teacher.

Endless Public Service

In the last week of December 1886, Madan with Prof. A.R. Bhattacharya went to Calcutta to participate in Second Conference of Indian National Congress where supporting Sri Surendra Nath Banerjee's resolution he gave a brilliant speech, a specimen of felicity and linguistic acumen. Conference President Dada Bhai Nouroji said that through this young man Mother India herself spoke. The speech impressed Raja Ramapal Singh of Kalakankar of Pratapagarh district so much that he requested him to edit the Hindi daily 'Hindosthan' brought out by him. In July 1887 relinquishing teaching he joined the Daily as its editor and the paper became very popular. His editorials and comments on contemporary problems were balanced and inspiring. Observing editorial propriety, supporting truth, asserting national interest, and criticism without personal attack characterized his journalism.

In 1887, he was appointed President of State Political Association and permanent member of Executive Committee .In 1889 he came back to Allahabad and under Pt. Ayodhyanath's stewardship joined the English daily 'Indian Opinion' as Coeditor. He also joined LLB Course. Passing LL.B. Examination in 1891, he started legal practice at District Court of Allahabad. Within a few years he achieved fame in Civil Law and he'd rank after Pt. Sundar Lal & Pt. Moti Lal Nehru. Soon he became a brilliant Civil lawyer. But wealth could not fetter him. National service would be his main work. Sri Gokhale said, "Malaviyaji's sacrifice is real one. Born in a poor family, he started earning thousands monthly. He tasted luxury and wealth but giving heed to call of the nation renouncing all he again embraced poverty".

In 1907, he organised D.P. Industrial Conference in Allahabad and established Prayag Industrial Association. On the Vasanta Panchami of 1907 he began publishing a Hindi weekly 'The Abhyudaya' to propagate his political and cultural views. On 24th October 1919, the day of Vijaya Dashami, the first issue of the English daily, 'Leader' came out.

Work in Congress

He joined Congress in its second year of inception and from then on till 1937-38; he participated in almost all annual and special sessions of Congress. He came out as a great thinker and fighter in context of different national problems. He remained ever a fighter for country's politico-intellectual and cultural emancipation. Opposition of the Rowlatt Act, vehement opposition of the Jaliawalah massacre, formation of Congress Swaraj Party, Nationalist Party, and Swadeshi Organizations, Ekata Conference made endless saga of his fighting spirit. Perhaps there was none like him in the history of Congress. The national party by offering him President ship in the 1909, 1918, 1930, and 1932 Congress acknowledged his leadership. The pivotal role that he played in nation's service is a glorious chapter in history of the Congress. He represented the whole of India with Mahatma Gandhi in the First Round Table Conference in 1931. His prime objective was country's liberation. To his last breath, he dedicated himself to the nation with immovable detennination. In 1937, he left active politics for good.

Banaras Hindu University

The Banaras Hindu University is the living picture of Madan's philosophy of education.' The dedication with which he founded the University proves that he showed exemplary capability to achieve his objective. Right from the beginning he had the vision of a great fully developed University. That is why after Independence the number of 'engineers and technocrats produced by the University is more than that by any other institution in the country. He chose Banaras as the site, because of the centuries old tradition of learning, wisdom and spirituality inherent to the place. His vision was to blend the best of Indian education called from the ancient centers of learning - Takshashila and Nalanda and other hallowed institutions, with the best tradition of modern universities of the west.

The active and effective role played by the University during the 1942 Quit India Movement could be possible only because the basis for national awakening was already here a decade earlier. Madan directly and indirectly influenced and affected it. He made the institution a major centre of national awakening.

Finally

Malaviya passed away in 1946. But his spirit still lives and there are many who bear the torch that he lit, Many more stand ready to shoulder the mantle of his responsibility. Here, I wish to quote few lines from the 12th Convocation Speech, (1929) of Benaras University delivered by the founder Mahamana Malaviya Jee

"I ask young men and women to remember the promises you have made to me through me to your alma mater before you obtained your Diplomas. Remember those promises. Speak the truth, think truth. Continue your studies throughout your life. Be just and fear none. Fear only to do that is ill or ignoble. Stand up for right. Love the motherland. Promote public weal. Do good wherever you get a chance for it. Love to give whatever you can spare"

Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it

2009-07-23T10:21:00.000-07:00

These were the fiery words of Tilak which roused a sleeping nation to action, making Indian people aware of their political plight under a foreign rule…………

Inspiration

In my early days, I was fascinated by the way Ganesh Chaturthi was celebrated across the country with such a zeal & enthusiasm. I was captivated when Hindus & Muslims of my city came together to celebrate this festival with grandeaur year after year . It meant a lot to me specially after I witnessed communal violence in the early ninetees when Ayodhya & Mumbai were under fire. That day I thanked the person who had a vision to celebrate festivities this way which was instrumental in bringing people together culturally - irrespective of their caste and creed & and I was told it was Lokamanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak way back in 1894.

Post 1857, Tilak was the first popular leader of the Indian Independence Movement. Militant nationalism emerged in the first decade of the twentieth century and prominent among the revolutionaries was the trio Lal Bal Pal (Lala Lajpat Rai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal). Bal Gangadhar Tilak is considered as Father of Indian National Movement. He was a social reformer, freedom fighter, national leader, and a scholar of Indian history, sanskrit, hinduism, mathematics and astronomy. People loved him and accepted him as their leaders and so he was called 'Lokmanya Tilak'

Birth & Childhood

Bal Gangadhar Tilak was born on July 23, 1856 in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. His father Gangadhar Ramachandra Tilak was a Sanskrit scholar and a famous teacher. Tilak was a brilliant student and he was very good in mathematics. Since childhood Tilak had an intolerant attitude towards injustice and he was truthful and straightforward in nature. While Tilak was studying in Matriculation he was married to a 10-year-old girl called Satyabhama. After passing the Matriculation Examination Tilak joined the Deccan College from where he graduated (B.A. degree with a first class in mathematics) in 1877. He continued his studies and got the LL.B. degree too. He was among India's first generation of youth to receive a modern, college education.

Vision

Tilak did not question the British Sovereignty nor his demands were rebellious or revolutionary. All he was asking was favorable conditions in India, to enable people to learn to govern themselves. May be all over the world, the separatist forces should follow his vision and define freedom as ability to govern one's land. But the handful rulers who ruled India's millions thought otherwise. They thought that Tilak was whipping a rebellion and he was imprisoned twice; two years for the first and six during the second

Multifaceted

Tilak, in his early days had realised that good citizens can be molded only through good education. He believed that every Indian had to be taught about Indian culture and national ideals. Along with his classmate Agarkar and great social reformer Vishnushastry Chiplunkar, Bal Gangadhar Tilak founded “Deccan Education Society” to impart quality education to India's youth in 1880.

The very next year after the Deccan Education Society was founded, Tilak started two weeklies, 'Kesari' (which is a very popular weekly till date) and 'Mahratta'. 'Kesari' means ‘Lion’ and was a Marathi weekly while 'Mahratta' was in English . Soon both the newspapers became very popular. In his newspapers, Tilak highlighted the plight of Indians. He gave a vivid picture of the people's sufferings and of actual happenings. Tilak called upon every Indian to fight for his right.

Bal Gangadhar Tilak joined the Indian National Congress in 1890. He was a member of the Municipal Council of Pune, Bombay Legislature, and an elected 'Fellow' of the Bombay University. Tilak was a great social reformer. He issued a call for the banning of child marriage and welcomed widow remarriage.

After his first conviction, Tilak was released in 1898. Following the partition of Bengal in 1905, which was a strategy set out by Lord Curzon to weaken the nationalist movement, Tilak encouraged a boycott, regarded as the Swadeshi Movement. He spread the message to each and every village in Maharashtra.

He was convicted and imprisoned for the second time from 1908 to 1914 in the Mandalay Prison, Burma. While imprisoned, he continued to read and write, further developing his ideas on the Indian Nationalist movement. At 52, a diabetic and ailing Tilak wrote his famous commentary on Bhagavad-Gita, the sacred book of Hindus. By the time Tilak completed his six year prison term, he was the unquestioned leader of the Indians - the uncrowned king. He was known as the 'Tilak Maharaj'. He was released on June 8, 1914

Later Years and Death

After his second release, Bal Gangadhar Tilak tried to bring the two factions of Congress together. But his efforts did not bear much fruit. In 1916, he decided to build a separate organization called the 'Home Rule League'. Its goal was Swaraj. Tilak went from village to village, and explained the aim of his league to the farmers and won their hearts. He traveled constantly in order to organize the people. While fighting for people’s cause Bal Gangadhar Tilak died on August 1, 1920.

Finally

Tilak gave India the concepts of Civil resistance, Swaraj, and Nationalism Tilak's suffering did not go in vain. A band of leaders, full of zeal for nationalism and self-sacrifice had come up in India. National schools were coming up in all corners of India. He paved the way for Khadi, picketing against foreign goods and alcoholism.

When Tilak was convicted for the second time, he gave the famous statement :

" All I wish to say is that in spite of the verdict of the jury, I maintain my innocence. There are higher powers that rule the destiny of men and nations. It may be the will of Providence that the cause I represent may prosper by suffering than by remaining free" . These words now can be seen imprinted on the wall of Room. No. 46 at Bombay High Court

Khoob ladi mardaani vah to jhansi vaali raani thi.

2009-07-22T10:44:00.000-07:00

Inspiration

Even before reading about this brave woman in my history chapters, I knew her all thanks to my mom. My mother was inspired by this lady who was an epitome of bravery and courage & this translated into me and my sisters playing her character many a time during the ‘Mono-Acts’. Those fiery dialogues made me realize she was no ordinary woman. She died at a tender age of 22 years, but is considered to be a lion at heart. And she still lives on….

Rani Laksmi bai was born on 19th of November 1835. The great heroine of the First war of Independence of 1857. She was the embodiment of patriotism, self-respect and heroism. She was the queen of a small state, but the empress of a limitless empire of glory. Rani Lakshmi Bai became a national heroine and was seen as the epitome of female bravery in India. When the Indian National Army created its first female unit, it was named after her.

Birth & Childhood

She was born to a Maharashtrian family at Kashi (now Varanasi). During her childhood, she was called by the name Manikarnika. Affectionately, her family members called her Manu. She also took formal training in martial arts, which included horse riding, shooting and fencing. In the year 1842, she got married to the Maharaja of Jhansi, Raja Gangadhar Rao Niwalkar. On getting married, she was given the name Lakshmi Bai. Two years later she gave birth to a son. Unfortunately, the child did not survive more than four months.

Beginning of the unrest

In the year 1853, Gangadhar Rao fell sick. So, the couple decided to adopt a child to ensure that the British do not raise an issue over the adoption. The same year Maharaja died.

Because Anand Rao, the adopted son was not biologically related to the Raja, the East India Company, under Governor-General Lord Dalhousie, was able to install the doctrine of lapse, rejecting Rao's rightful claim to the throne. Dalhousie then annexed Jhansi, saying that the throne had become "lapsed" and thus put kingdom of Jhansi under his "protection". In March 1854, the Rani was ordered to leave the palace at the Jhansi fort. Lakshmi Bai was furious, and she spent the next few years passionately protesting. When her appeals left her empty-handed, she hired a British attorney to fight for her against the Company’s unjust rule. She at least made small headway, receiving a pension and permission to stay in the palace

Impact

Jhansi became the focal point of uprising before Sepoy Mutiny. Rani of Jhansi began to strengthen her position. By seeking the support of others, she formed a volunteer army. The army not just consisted of the men folk, but the women were also actively involved. From the period between Sep-Oct 1857, Rani defended Jhansi from being invaded by the armies of the neighboring Rajas of Orchha and Datia.

However, the army under Sir Hugh Rose declared war on 23rd March 1858. When his army entered Jhansi City, the Rani herself took up arms. She put on the clothes of a man and she fought like the Goddess of War. Whenever she fought the British army bowed down. Her organization of her forces and her fight – worthy of a man – surprised Rose. Finally, the Britishers succeeded in the annexation of the city. However, Rani Laksmi Bai managed to escape along with her son, in the guise of a man.

The Death of Rani - Battle of Gwalior

Along with the young Damodar Rao, the Rani decamped to Kalpi along with her forces where she joined hands with other rebel forces, including those of Tantia Tope. Then Rani and Tantia Tope moved on to Gwalior. At Gwalior, the combined rebel forces defeated the army of the Maharaja of Gwalior when his armies deserted to the rebel forces and they occupied the strategic fort at Gwalior. However on the second day of fighting, on 18 June 1858, the Rani met her destiny. As expected, that day Hugh Rose had the upper hand. A large part of the army of revolutionaries fell. British army entered the fort swift as a flood.

There was no other course for the Rani than to escape from that place. Holding the horse’s reins in her teeth and flashing the sword with both the hands the Rani rode away. Blood was flowing from her body. But there was no time to rest. When the Rani was about to cross the Swarnarekha Canal a shot from the gun or a British soldier who came there struck her right thigh. Flashing the sword with her left hand, the Rani put an end to him. She was taken to Baba Gangadas’ ashram where she died.

Finally

For her immense effort, she is referred to as the 'Icon of the Indian Nationalist Movement'. Her story became a beacon for the upcoming generations of freedom fighters.

In the words of the British General Sir Hugh Rose, who fought against the Rani several times wrote ‘Although she was a lady she was the bravest and best military leader of the rebels. A man among the mutineers.’

Tipu Sultan – The first freedom fighter of India & The Tiger of Mysore

2009-07-18T01:25:00.000-07:00

Inspiration

This is how historians might remember this valiant, brave king who offered his blood to write the history of free India. But I better remember him as ‘Hero’ of the famous television series ‘Sword of Tipu Sultan’. The first larger than life character brought to our television screens post Ramayana & Mahabharata. He left an indelible impression on my mind & it was my first brush with heroics of our ancestors. His story planted the seeds for my eternal love for our dear nation. And rest I say is history :-)

Birth & Childhood

Tipu Sultan, the eldest son of Haider Ali, was born on December 10, 1750 at Devanhalli. Tipu's training in the art of war started as early as 1763, when he was hardly 13 years old, in Haider's attack on Malabar where Tipu displayed great dash and courage. That was his first experience of war. Right from his early years he was trained in the art of warfare and at the age of 15 he used to accompany his father Haider Ali, the ruler of Mysore, to different military campaigns. In Addition, he also learnt different languages, mathematics and science. Tipu Sultan had a fascination for learning. His personal library consisted of more than 2,000 books in different languages.

Vision

Tipu Sultan was a fascinating figure of 18th century; He had a vision and a mission in life. The vision was to make his people enlightened and prosperous, and mission was to liberate his land from the yoke of the colonials. His short but stormy rule is significant because of his view that only that life was worth living which would unfold the drama of human freedom, not only political freedom, but also social freedom, economic freedom, cultural freedom, and freedom from want, hunger, apathy, ignorance

and superstition. His definition of State itself was organized energy for freedom.

Impact

Having learnt the western techniques of warfare, Tipu was not slow in making use of it. He was himself bold, dashing, and a person of undaunted adventurous spirit. Under his leadership Mysore army "proved a school of military science" to Indian princes. The dread of a European army no longer wrought any magic on him. Tipu's infliction of serious blows on the English in the First and Second Mysore wars damaged their reputation as an invincible power.

Contribution

Long before the events of 1857, when a spirited reprising attempted to throw of the English, and before the formation of the Indian National Congress which set the pace for National Movement, Tipu struggled hard to rouse a consciousness of his neighbors to the impending danger to Indian Independence from the English.

He took over the kingdom of Mysore after the death of his father in 1782, who died of a carbuncle in the midst of a campaign against the British. The French in India had disappointed Tipu in his expectation of close co-operation to fight the British Empire. However he embarced the French ideals to a certain extent that he had planted a "Republican" tree out side his palace. In history it is not always a success that deserves notice, but the presence of a new idea, which has the potentiality of far-reaching results. His dream of a "Republic" came through about 150 years later when India ushered into a new era on 26th January 1950.

The Death of Tipu Sultan – Battle of Srirangapatnam

The second half of the eighteen century was a period of great confusion in Indian history which witnessed the rise of the Colonial power. The only State which offered stiff resistance to their expansion was Mysore, which fought not one but four wars. Tipu participated in all those four Mysore wars, in two of which he inflicted serious blows on the English. In fact Tipu's rule starts in the midst of a war against the English and ends in the midst of a war against them.

The Fourth Mysore war was a short affair. Keeping Tipu in false hopes, the Nizam joined hands with the English & suddenly surprised him by unacceptable demands. When Tipu refused to accept them, the English breached the fort and in a bloody encounter, fighting against heavy odds he was killed on fourth May 1799. The last hope for the freedom of the land was thus extinguished.

Srirangapatnam was besieged by the British forces on 5 April, 1799.The column that rounded the North-West corner of the outer wall was immediately involved in a serious fight with a group of Mysorean warriors under a short fat officer, which defended every traverse. The officer was observed to be discharging loaded hunting weapons, passed to him by servants in his service, at the British. After the fall of Srirangapatnam, in the gathering dusk, some of the British officers went to look for the body of Tipu Sultan. He was identified as the fat officer who had fired hunting weapons at the offenders, and his body was found in a choked tunnel-like passage near the Water Gate.

He died a Soldier's death for the defense of the cherished values of land under spontaneous combustion of hostile forces

Lest We Forget

2009-07-16T08:26:00.000-07:00

No...it isn't a history lesson. It's just a means for me to recollect all those wonderful people who have been an inspiration all through these years. So just go on to know what exactly is it....Happy reading :)

It's about our country which has always had these fascinating stories of people who were not just brave but were dreamers. They dreamt of a nation which would be independent,

secular, democratic , republic & socialist (All those idealistic words we were taught in our schools :) )

There have been numerous organizations as well which were instrumental in making us realize the value of freedom. Hindustan Socialist Republic Association or HSRA), Indian National Army (Azad Hind Fauj), Indian National Congress & Indian Armed Forces just to mention a few. Most of us have heard and read these stories as our lessons at school revolved around them for most of the time. But it was always history, something which we were never a part of.

That was why The Kargil war was truly historic in a sense that it brought our heroes live on Television. And here we are in 2009, commemorating 10th Anniversary of the war. On such an occasion this is my small tribute to all those Martyrs of our country....

Right from Tipu Sultan to Mahatma Gandhi & Bhagat Singh to Captain Vikram Batra. Most of them who laid down their lives with a smile on their face and with a satisfaction of dying for their dear motherland

Over the next few days I wish to pay my tribute to few of those great souls....And who will the first one????

Keep guessing!!!!