Bhagat Singh Biography: Birth, Age, Education, Jail-term, Execution, and More About Shaheed-e-Azam | Shaheed Diwas
Bhagat Singh (1907-1931) was an influential Indian revolutionary and freedom fighter who played a significant role in the struggle for India’s independence from British colonial rule. Here is a biography of Bhagat Singh:
Early Life and Education: Bhagat Singh was born on September 28, 1907, in the village of Banga in present-day Pakistan. His father, Kishan Singh, and mother, Vidyavati, were deeply involved in the freedom struggle. Bhagat Singh’s family had a background of patriotism and sacrifice.
Bhagat Singh received his early education at the D.A.V. School in Lahore and later joined the National College, a center of revolutionary activities. Inspired by nationalist leaders like Lala Lajpat Rai and Kartar Singh Sarabha, Bhagat Singh developed a strong desire to free his motherland from British rule.
Involvement in Revolutionary Activities: At a young age, Bhagat Singh became an active member of the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA), later renamed the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA). He believed in the use of revolutionary means to achieve independence.
Bhagat Singh participated in several acts of resistance against the British government. In 1928, he and Batukeshwar Dutt threw non-lethal bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi to protest against the repressive Public Safety Bill and the Trade Disputes Act. They courted arrest and were subsequently sentenced to imprisonment.
Martyrdom and Legacy: While in jail, Bhagat Singh and his comrades organized hunger strikes and protests to demand better treatment for political prisoners. On March 23, 1931, Bhagat Singh, along with Rajguru and Sukhdev, was sentenced to death for his involvement in the Lahore Conspiracy Case. Despite widespread protests and appeals for clemency, the British authorities executed them on March 23, 1931, at the age of 23.
Bhagat Singh’s sacrifice and revolutionary spirit made a profound impact on the Indian independence movement. He became a symbol of courage, patriotism, and selfless sacrifice. His writings, including his famous essay “Why I am an Atheist,” continue to inspire generations.
Bhagat Singh’s legacy remains an integral part of India’s struggle for independence, and he is revered as a national hero. His birth anniversary, March 23, is observed as Shaheed Diwas (Martyrs’ Day) in India to honor the sacrifice of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev.
Bhagat Singh’s contribution to India’s freedom struggle and his unwavering commitment to the ideals of justice, equality, and freedom have left an indelible mark on the nation’s history. He continues to inspire millions with his courage and dedication to the cause of a free India.
Bhagat Singh – Important Details
- Date of Birth – 28th September 1907
- Birthplace – Village Banga, Punjab (now in Pakistan
- Parents: mother – Vidyavati Kaur. Father – Kishan Singh
- Education: DAV High School and National College, Lahore
- Associations: Naujawan Bharat Sabha, Kirti Kisan Party, Hindustan Republican Association, and Kranti Dal
- Death: Executed on 23rd March 1931
- Memorial: The National Martyrs Memorial, Hussainwala, Punjab
More About Shaheed-e-Azam | Shaheed Diwas
Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh, popularly known as Shaheed Bhagat Singh, was a prominent freedom fighter and revolutionary in the Indian independence movement. His sacrifice and dedication to the cause of Indian independence have earned him the title of “Shaheed-e-Azam,” which means “the greatest martyr.”
Shaheed Diwas, also known as Martyrs’ Day, is observed in India on March 23 each year to commemorate the execution of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev by the British colonial government in 1931. The day serves as a reminder of their supreme sacrifice and their relentless struggle against British oppression.
Here are some key aspects of Bhagat Singh’s life and his significance as Shaheed-e-Azam:
Ideology and Revolutionary Activities: Bhagat Singh was deeply influenced by the nationalist movement and the injustices suffered by the Indian people under British rule. He firmly believed in the power of armed revolution to overthrow the British government and establish an independent India. He was associated with revolutionary organizations like the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) and later the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA). Bhagat Singh and his comrades engaged in acts of resistance, including bombings and assassinations, to challenge British authority and inspire the masses to join the struggle for freedom.
Lahore Conspiracy Case and Execution: Bhagat Singh’s most notable act of resistance was the throwing of non-lethal bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi in 1929, which aimed to protest against repressive legislation. Despite their intention not to harm anyone, the incident resulted in the death of a police officer. Bhagat Singh, along with Rajguru and Sukhdev, was arrested and charged with the Lahore Conspiracy Case. During their trial, they used the courtroom as a platform to express their revolutionary ideologies and ideals. Despite widespread protests and appeals for clemency, the British authorities executed them on March 23, 1931.
Legacy and Inspiration: Bhagat Singh’s sacrifice and unwavering commitment to the cause of independence made him an icon of bravery and patriotism. He continues to inspire generations with his revolutionary spirit, intellectual prowess, and selfless dedication. Bhagat Singh’s writings, including his prison diary, letters, and essays, reflect his deep sense of nationalism, socialist ideology, and belief in the power of youth in bringing about social and political change.
Commemoration of Shaheed Diwas: Shaheed Diwas, observed on March 23, is a day of remembrance and reverence for the sacrifices made by Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev. It serves as a reminder of their courage, commitment, and selflessness in the struggle for India’s freedom. On this day, tributes are paid to the martyrs at their memorials, and various cultural and educational programs are organized across the country to honor their legacy.
The sacrifice of Shaheed Bhagat Singh and his comrades serves as a constant reminder of the indomitable spirit of the Indian people and their determination to achieve freedom and justice. Their contributions continue to inspire and instill a sense of patriotism among the citizens of India.
National Movement and Revolutionary Activities
The national movement in India refers to the collective efforts and struggles undertaken by Indians to attain independence from British colonial rule. While the movement encompassed various ideologies, strategies, and leaders, revolutionary activities played a significant role in challenging British authority and inspiring the masses. Here is an overview of the national movement and revolutionary activities during India’s struggle for independence:
Background and Early Nationalism: The national movement gained momentum in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, fueled by factors such as British economic exploitation, social and political inequalities, and the desire for self-governance. Early nationalist leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Gopal Krishna Gokhale advocated for reforms and political representation.
Rise of Revolutionary Activities: In addition to the non-violent and constitutional approaches of the Indian National Congress (INC), some sections of the nationalist movement embraced revolutionary activities as a means to challenge British rule. This approach was influenced by factors like disillusionment with moderate politics, the impact of international revolutionary movements, and the influence of revolutionary leaders.
Revolutionary Organizations: Several revolutionary organizations emerged during this period, including the Anushilan Samiti, Jugantar, and the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA). These organizations believed in armed struggle and used tactics like bombings, assassinations, and acts of sabotage to destabilize British authority.
Leaders of Revolutionary Movements: Prominent leaders of the revolutionary movement included Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad, Khudiram Bose, Rash Behari Bose, Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, and many others. They displayed remarkable courage, ideological clarity, and a willingness to sacrifice their lives for the cause of independence.
Major Revolutionary Incidents: Several notable incidents marked the revolutionary movement. These include the Alipore Bomb Case (1908), in which Khudiram Bose was involved, the Kakori Conspiracy Case (1925), in which Ram Prasad Bismil and others were implicated, and the Lahore Conspiracy Case (1930-1931), which led to the execution of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev.
Impact and Significance: While the revolutionary activities did not achieve immediate independence, they had a profound impact on the national consciousness and the course of the freedom struggle. They inspired a sense of nationalism, instilled fear in the British administration, and highlighted the demand for complete independence rather than mere reforms.
Shift towards Non-violence and Mass Movements: In the later stages of the national movement, under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, the focus shifted towards non-violent civil disobedience and mass movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922), Salt Satyagraha (1930), and Quit India Movement (1942). These movements garnered widespread participation and contributed significantly to the momentum for independence.
Legacy: The revolutionary activities during the national movement left an indelible mark on India’s struggle for independence. The bravery, sacrifice, and spirit of the revolutionaries continue to inspire generations, and they are remembered as national heroes who played a crucial role in paving the way for India’s freedom.
It’s important to note that while the revolutionary activities constituted a part of the broader national movement, the movement itself encompassed a wide range of ideologies, strategies, and leaders, including those who advocated non-violence, constitutional reforms, and social reforms.
Lahore-Conspiracy-Case and Trial
The Lahore Conspiracy Case was a significant event during the Indian freedom struggle, stemming from the revolutionary activities of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev. Here is an overview of the Lahore Conspiracy Case and their trial:
Background: Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev were members of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA), a revolutionary organization committed to freeing India from British colonial rule through armed resistance. They were involved in various acts of resistance against British authority.
The Assembly Bombing: One of the most prominent incidents that led to the Lahore Conspiracy Case was the throwing of non-lethal bombs by Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt in the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi on April 8, 1929. The aim was to protest against repressive legislation, particularly the Public Safety Bill and the Trade Disputes Act. The bombs were deliberately non-lethal to avoid harm to individuals.
Arrest and Trial: Following the bombing, Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt courted arrest. Subsequently, a massive manhunt was launched to capture other HSRA members, leading to the arrest of Rajguru and Sukhdev. The four were charged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and faced trial.
The Trial Proceedings: The trial of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev began in the Lahore Central Jail in July 1929. They were charged with offenses including murder, conspiracy, and unlawful activities against the British government. They used the trial as an opportunity to voice their revolutionary ideologies, political beliefs, and vision for an independent India. During the trial, they refused to plead guilty and instead embraced their actions as a means to ignite the flame of revolution and awaken the Indian masses. Their defense was centered around their revolutionary objectives and the desire to overthrow colonial rule.
Verdict and Sentencing: The judgment in the Lahore Conspiracy Case was delivered on October 7, 1930. Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev were found guilty and sentenced to death. Despite widespread protests and appeals for clemency, the British authorities remained firm in their decision.
Martyrdom and Legacy: On March 23, 1931, Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev were executed in Lahore’s Central Jail. Their martyrdom sparked widespread outrage and intensified the struggle for India’s independence.
The trial of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev in the Lahore Conspiracy Case served as a platform for them to express their revolutionary ideologies and beliefs, raising awareness about the cause of Indian independence. Their sacrifice and determination continue to inspire generations, and they are remembered as national heroes who fought courageously for freedom.
The Lahore Conspiracy Case is an important chapter in India’s freedom struggle, highlighting the strength and resilience of those who dared to challenge British oppression and paved the way for a free and independent India.
Bhagat Singh Death
Bhagat Singh, one of the most iconic figures in India’s freedom struggle, was executed by the British colonial government on March 23, 1931. His death marked a significant moment in India’s fight for independence. Here are the details surrounding Bhagat Singh’s death:
Execution: Bhagat Singh, along with his comrades Rajguru and Sukhdev, was sentenced to death in the Lahore Conspiracy Case. Despite widespread protests and appeals for clemency, the British authorities remained determined to carry out the execution.
On the evening of March 23, 1931, Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev were taken to the gallows in the Central Jail in Lahore, Pakistan (then part of undivided India). They faced their execution with utmost courage and conviction.
