Shaheed Bhagat Singh: The Legend Who Inspired a Nation

Shaheed Bhagat Singh: The Legend Who Inspired a Nation

Whenever it comes to the youth who sacrificed their lives for their country across the world, The name of Shaheed-e-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh is taken first. Yes why not? At the age of 23, when our children are completing their college studies.

Today, not only in India, young people all over the world take inspiration from the life of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and consider him as their ideal. Becoming like him is not an easy task.

For this, it is very important for us to understand their childhood. There is a very famous anecdote related the feeling of patriotism does not come in us only when we grow up, but how important it is to have it from childhood.

Once upon a time. His uncle brought a gun to the house. He his uncle asked what happens with this? Uncle ji told that this will drive away the British rule. After a few days He went to work in the fields with his uncle and saw that his uncle was planting a mango tree there. He said, "I am planting a mango tree on which many mangoes will grow and we will all eat it."

After a while the attention of the uncle went towards the boy him. He saw that the he was burying small sticks in the field. Uncle ji asked, "What are burying the field? Uncle ji must have thought that the child's answer would come that I am playing , plucking wood, but hearing the child's answer , he, and the rest of family standing behind Mr. Heran Remained. He had said , "I am the gunman." Uncle asked again, "You know what it means?

He said, 'I know that our country is a slave, and we will need many hard guns to fight the British for freedom. That is why I am seeding guns. When there are too many small wallets, we will all fight with the British and drive them out of our country.

On that day his uncle and father decided that in childhood, the thoughts of this child are such revolutionary, so we have to keep a special eye on its upbringing and its activities, so that this talent within it comes to the fore. This energy should not go anywhere else. The same thing happened later. Today the world knows him and worships him. 

Bhagat Singh, born on September 28, 1907, in Banga, Punjab, emerged as one of India's most revered freedom fighters, symbolizing the spirit of resistance against British colonial rule. His early exposure to nationalist sentiments, influenced by his family’s political activism, ignited his passion for social justice and independence. Singh's journey as a revolutionary began in his teenage years, where he became increasingly disillusioned with the oppressive British regime, particularly after witnessing the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919, which profoundly impacted his worldview.

His ideology was shaped by Marxist and socialist principles, leading him to advocate for not just political independence but also social equality and justice for the oppressed. He became a prominent member of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA), which sought to overthrow British rule through revolutionary means. His commitment to the cause intensified as he took part in various protests and activities, including the protest against the Simon Commission in 1928. It was during this event that he became embroiled in the assassination of British police officer John Saunders, mistaking him for James A. Scott, the officer responsible for the death of nationalist leader Lala Lajpat Rai.

Following his arrest, Singh’s trial drew immense public attention, becoming a platform for him to voice his revolutionary ideas. He used the courtroom to express his beliefs, gaining popularity as a martyr for the independence movement. His hunger strike while imprisoned highlighted the inhumane conditions faced by political prisoners, resonating with the public and garnering widespread support for his cause.

Singh's most notable act of defiance occurred on April 8, 1929, when he and fellow revolutionary Batukeshwar Dutt threw non-lethal bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi. Their intention was not to harm but to make a statement, and they surrendered to the authorities, confident that their actions would inspire a larger movement. His writings during this period reflected his deep conviction in revolutionary ideologies and critiques of colonialism and capitalism, earning him admiration among youth across India.

Despite his young age, Singh’s impact on the freedom struggle was profound. He became a symbol of bravery and sacrifice, inspiring generations of Indians to rise against oppression. The British government, determined to quell his influence, ultimately sentenced him to death. On March 23, 1931, at just 23 years old, He along with his comrades Rajguru and Sukhdev, was executed in Lahore Central Jail, a martyrdom that cemented his legacy in Indian history.

His life and sacrifice ignited a flame of nationalism that transcended regional and communal barriers, uniting people in the struggle for independence. His ideals of equality, justice, and freedom continue to resonate in contemporary India, making him a timeless icon of resistance against tyranny. Today, his legacy is celebrated across the nation, reminding us of the price of freedom and the ongoing fight against injustice. His courage and unwavering commitment to his ideals continue to inspire countless individuals in their pursuit of social and political change.

He had two siblings: an elder brother named Ajit Singh and a younger sister named Shradha Singh. The family's strong commitment to social justice and anti-colonial activism deeply influenced his ideology. The environment of political discussions and revolutionary fervor at home instilled in him a sense of duty towards his country and its freedom, shaping him into one of India’s most iconic freedom fighters.

The Indian government has honored him in various ways to commemorate his contributions to the freedom struggle and his enduring legacy. Here are some notable initiatives:

1. Statues and Memorials: Numerous statues and memorials dedicated to him have been erected across India, especially in places associated with his life and struggle, such as Punjab and Delhi.

2. Bhagat Singh Jayanti: March 23, the day of his execution, is observed as "Shaheed Diwas" (Martyrs' Day) across India. Various events, including parades, speeches, and cultural programs, are held to honor his sacrifice.

3. Educational Institutions: Several universities, colleges, and schools have been named after him, emphasizing his ideals and inspiring students. Institutions often hold seminars and workshops focused on his life and philosophy.

4. Films and Documentaries: The government has supported the production of films and documentaries that depict his life and contributions, helping to keep his legacy alive in popular culture.

5. Commemorative Coins and Stamps: The Indian government has issued commemorative coins and postage stamps featuring him, recognizing his status as a national hero.

6. Scholarships and Grants: Some state governments have initiated scholarships and grants in his name to support students pursuing education, particularly in fields related to social justice and activism.

7. Cultural Programs: Various cultural programs and competitions are organized in his memory, encouraging discussions about his philosophy and ideals among youth.

These initiatives reflect the Indian government's efforts to honor Bhagat Singh’s legacy and ensure that future generations recognize his contributions to India’s struggle for independence.

"We want to be like them"