Chandrashekhar Azad: The Rebel Who Redefined Freedom
A 14-year-old boy was arrested by the police for participating in a demonstration along with the Krantikaris in the freedom struggle and he was produced before the judge. Here the judge asked that child his name, then the child replied with full firmness, "My name is Azad, when asked the father's name, he spoke loudly, "freedom" and when asked for the address, he said "jail". Judge got upset on this and sentenced the child to 15 lashings in public. When that child was being lashed on his back, there was no wrinkle on his face. He was just saying Vande Mataram in one voice. This child Chandra Shekhar Azad it was the same Chandrashekar Azad, whose name only made the English police tremble.
He used to say that we will face the bullets of the enemy, have remained free. Every revolutionary youth used to repeat his slogan of being free. The place from where he used to speak from the stage, thousands of youths used to get ready to lay down their lives for the country with him.
On February 7, 1931, Chandrashekhar Azad with a friend at Alfred Park in Allahabad. They were discussing while sitting together when the British surrounded them there. Chandrashekhar Azad drove his friend away, but he himself faced the British alone. In the end A bullet from the British hit his thigh. There was only one bullet left in his gun. He had already vowed that he would never be alive in the hands of the police. Will. Keeping this vow, he killed the remaining bullet himself. In the Police There was so much fear of Chandrashekhar Azad that anyone would even go near his dead body. Didn't dare By firing bullets on his body and only after being fully convinced, the police Chandrashekhar went to Azad.
He was born on July 23, 1906, in Bhavra, Madhya Pradesh, is celebrated as one of India’s most iconic freedom fighters. A key figure in the Indian independence movement, His life was marked by courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom from British colonial rule.
His early life was influenced by the socio-political environment of India under British rule. He was deeply inspired by the ideals of revolutionaries and nationalists. After being exposed to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919, he became determined to fight against British oppression. In 1920, he joined the Non-Cooperation Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi but soon became disillusioned with its approach, opting instead for more radical means of protest.
In 1923, he joined the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA), a revolutionary organization aimed at liberating India through armed struggle. He quickly rose through the ranks and became a prominent leader. It was during this time that he adopted the name “Azad,” meaning "free," vowing that he would never be captured by the British. He is famously known for his last words, “Dushman ki goliyon ka saamna hum karenge, azad hi rahenge” (We will face the enemy’s bullets and remain free).
He was instrumental in planning various revolutionary activities. He played a significant role in the Kakori train robbery in 1925, which aimed to fund the HRA’s activities. This daring act involved robbing a train carrying government money, but it resulted in increased British crackdowns on revolutionaries. Following the robbery, several of his comrades were arrested, and he evaded capture through his exceptional skills in guerilla warfare and his understanding of the landscape.
His alliance with other key revolutionaries, such as Bhagat Singh and Sukhdev, marked a turning point in the struggle against British rule. He believed in the necessity of armed revolution, and his actions inspired many young Indians to take up the fight for freedom. Despite being one of the most wanted men by the British authorities, He continued to work tirelessly, orchestrating several daring operations against British officials.
One of the most significant incidents of his life occurred on February 27, 1931, when he was cornered by the police in Alfred Park, Allahabad. During this encounter, despite being heavily outnumbered, He fought valiantly. Rather than being captured, he chose to end his life with his revolver, epitomizing his commitment to freedom. His death marked a poignant moment in Indian history and solidified his status as a martyr for the cause of independence.
Chandra Shekhar Azad's legacy lives on in India’s collective memory as a symbol of bravery and the spirit of revolution. His contributions to the independence movement inspired countless others and continue to resonate in the hearts of many. His life is a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals in the pursuit of freedom, and he is honored as a national hero. His unwavering resolve and commitment to the cause remain an inspiration for future generations, ensuring that his story is not forgotten in the annals of history.
Government Initiatives
Chandra Shekhar Azad is revered as a national hero in India, and the government has undertaken various initiatives to honor his legacy and contributions to the freedom struggle. Here are some key initiatives and commemorations:
1. Statues and Memorials
- Statues: Numerous statues of Chandra Shekhar Azad have been erected across the country, particularly in places significant to his life and activities. Notable locations include Azad Park in Allahabad (now Prayagraj), where he is remembered for his last stand against British police.
- Memorials: Memorials have been established to honor his memory, serving as sites for remembrance and education about his contributions to the freedom movement.
2. Educational Institutions
- Schools and Colleges: Several educational institutions, including colleges and schools, have been named after him, emphasizing the importance of his ideals and inspiring students to learn about his life and the values he stood for.
- Curriculum Inclusion: The government has also integrated lessons about him and other freedom fighters into school curricula to educate students about their contributions to India's independence.
3. Cultural Programs and Events
- Commemorative Events: The Indian government organizes various events on significant anniversaries related to him, including his birth anniversary on July 23. These events often include discussions, seminars, and cultural programs celebrating his life and sacrifice.
- Film and Literature: The government supports films, documentaries, and books that highlight his life, making his story accessible to a broader audience.
4. Honors and Recognitions
- Posthumous Awards: He has received various posthumous honors recognizing his bravery and sacrifice. His contributions are often acknowledged during national celebrations and commemorations of independence.
- Publications: The government has published works detailing his life, providing insight into his revolutionary activities and philosophies.
5. Azad's Legacy in Governance
- Development Schemes: In some regions, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, the government has initiated development schemes named after Azad, aiming to inspire youth and promote social welfare in alignment with his ideals of freedom and empowerment.
6. Azad Hind Fauj Memorial
- Cultural Heritage: The Indian government has taken steps to preserve and promote the history of the Azad Hind Fauj (Indian National Army), which, although primarily associated with Subhas Chandra Bose, was inspired by revolutionaries like Azad. This includes museums and exhibitions that highlight the contributions of various freedom fighters.
7. Statutory Recognition
- Azad Memorial Trust: Some states have established trusts and committees to preserve the memory of Azad, manage memorials, and promote research on his life and impact on the freedom struggle.
Conclusion
The Indian government’s initiatives towards honoring Chandra Shekhar Azad reflect a commitment to remembering the sacrifices made by freedom fighters in the struggle for independence. These efforts not only keep his legacy alive but also inspire future generations to understand and appreciate the values of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism he embodied.
"We want to be like them"
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