Chandrashekhar Azad reverberates among India’s freedom struggle’s pantheon of heroes. His name inspires awe and respect as he was a young revolutionary who made the ultimate sacrifice for his beloved country’s independence. Chandrashekhar Azad was born on July 23, 1906, in Alirajpur Riyasat of Madhya Pradesh. He emerged as one of the most courageous revolutionaries in India’s history.
Early Life And Inspiration
Chandrashekhar Azad was born into a modest family, and his father, Sitaram Tiwari, lived a life of hard work and devotion. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919 profoundly impacted the young Azad during his studies. At the age of 14, people sent him to Kashi (Varanasi) for Sanskrit education. In Kashi, he came into contact with fellow revolutionaries dedicated to India’s freedom cause.
Involvement In The Freedom Struggle
He actively participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi, resulting in his arrest during a protest. He fearlessly stated “Azad,” meaning “Free,” as his name in court. To queries about his father’s name and residence, he responded with “Swaraj,” meaning “self-rule,” and “Prison,” respectively. This incident earned him the name “Chandrashekhar Azad” and showcased his unwavering spirit.
The Birth Of Azad And His Comrades
After the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and the British execution of freedom fighters like Lala Lajpat Rai, Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev, Azad became determined to intensify the fight against British oppression. He joined hands with other revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh and Ram Prasad Bismil, forming a formidable force against the British Raj.
Acts Of Bravery And Sacrifice
In a spirit of vengeance for Lala Lajpat Rai’s death, Azad, along with Bhagat Singh and Rajguru, avenged the killing by assassinating British police officer J.P. Saunders. They also looted a train carrying British funds in Kakori, Uttar Pradesh, to fund their revolutionary activities.
The Final Stand
On February 27, 1931, police confronted Chandrashekhar Azad at Alfred Park in Allahabad. Despite being surrounded and wounded, he fought valiantly, incapacitating many adversaries. He utilized his last bullet to avoid arrest, choosing to end his life, determined never to be captured alive.
The courageous Azad remained “Azad” (free) until his final breath, becoming an everlasting inspiration for generations to come.
Chandrashekhar Azad, the fearless revolutionary, holds an immortal place in India’s freedom struggle’s chronicles. His unyielding commitment to the cause of independence, extraordinary bravery in the face of adversity, and ultimate sacrifice continue to ignite patriotic fervor in every Indian’s heart. As we commemorate his birth anniversary, let us remember Azad’s indomitable spirit and strive to uphold the values he fought and gave his life for – freedom, justice, and a united India. We pay homage to this legendary hero by dedicating ourselves to the progress and prosperity of our great nation.