Introduction
Among the great revolutionaries whose names are written in golden letters in the history of the Indian freedom struggle, the name of Chandrashekhar Azad is very proud. He not only fought against the British Empire, but also awakened the spirit of patriotism among the youth. His life became a symbol of courage, self-sacrifice and revolution.
Early life of Chandrashekhar Azad
Chandrashekhar Azad was born on 23 July 1906 in Bhabra village (present-day Alirajpur district, Madhya Pradesh). His father’s name was Pandit Sitaram Tiwari, and his mother’s name was Jagrani Devi. Chandrashekhar was courageous since childhood. He had deep knowledge of Sanskrit and religious texts.
In his childhood, he went to Kashi (now Varanasi), where he started taking interest in the activities of the Indian freedom struggle along with studies. It was here that he participated in Mahatma Gandhi’s non-cooperation movement and was arrested for the first time.
The story of the name ‘Azad’
When the police arrested him and presented him in court, the magistrate asked his name. Chandrashekhar replied:
- Name: Azad
- Father’s name: Independence
- Address: Jail
The judge was stunned by this answer, and he was sentenced to 15 lashes. On every blow of the whip, he shouted slogans of ‘Vande Mataram’ and ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’. Since then his name Chandrashekhar Azad became famous.
Beginning of revolutionary life
After the failure of Gandhiji’s non-cooperation movement, Chandrashekhar Azad chose the revolutionary path. He participated in an organisation called Hindustan Republican Association (HRA), which later became Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA).
This organisation was formed with the aim of armed revolution against British rule. Chandrashekhar Azad, along with revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev, Ramprasad Bismil, made many plans and carried out revolutionary works.
Kakori incident (1925)
The Kakori incident was a historic turning point in the Indian freedom struggle. In this, Azad and his companions looted the government treasury in a train. This act was an economic blow against British rule.
However, after this incident, many revolutionaries were caught, including Ramprasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, Rajendra Lahiri and Thakur Roshan Singh were hanged. But Chandrashekhar Azad escaped and continued to carry forward the movement secretly.
Bhagat Singh and Lahore Conspiracy Case
Chandrashekhar Azad had a deep relationship with Bhagat Singh. Both of them together made many plans against the British government. In 1929, Bhagat Singh threw a bomb in the Assembly, after which he was arrested. Chandrashekhar Azad planned to release him, but it could not be possible.
Martyrdom in Alfred Park (27 February 1931)
The biggest example of Chandrashekhar Azad’s patriotism is his martyrdom. When he was sitting with one of his companions in Alfred Park, Allahabad, an informer informed the police. The police surrounded the park.
Azad fought bravely. Many policemen were injured. But when he had the last bullet left, he shot himself. He said:
“I will never fall into the hands of British rule. I was free; I will remain free.”
Contribution of Chandrashekhar Azad
1.Leading the revolution against British rule:
Chandrashekhar Azad challenged the British through violent means and inspired the
2. youth to follow this path. Building revolutionary organisation:
He strengthened organisations like HSRA and gave them direction.
3. Inspiration in youth:
His courage, fearlessness and sacrifice are an inspiration for millions of youth even today.
Personality and ideals
1.Fearless and fearless:
Chandrashekhar Azad never allowed fear to overpower him.
2. Disciplined life:
He was a disciplined revolutionary. He did not lose composure even in difficult situations.
3. Patriotism:
His life was dedicated only to the service and freedom of Mother India.
Legacy of Chandrashekhar Azad
- Alfred Park is now called Chandrashekhar Azad Park.
- Many schools, colleges and roads have been named after him.
- His statue and pictures have been installed in different parts of India as a source of inspiration.
Conclusion
Chandrashekhar Azad was a revolutionary who lived every moment of his life for the freedom of Mother India. He proved through his thoughts, deeds and sacrifice that the soul of India can never be enslaved. Hundreds of salutes to this brave son of freedom.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Question 1: What was the real name of Chandrashekhar Azad?
Answer: His real name was Chandrashekhar Tiwari.
Question 2: When and why did Chandrashekhar Azad get the name ‘Azad’?
Answer: At the time of his arrest during the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1921, he told his name to the magistrate as ‘Azad’.
Question 3: How did Chandrashekhar Azad die?
Answer: He sacrificed himself on 27 February 1931 in Alfred Park, Allahabad so that he would not be caught by the British police.
Question 4: What was the main objective of Chandrashekhar Azad?
Answer: His objective was to free India from the slavery of the British.
Question 5: What was the motto of Chandrashekhar Azad?
Answer: “I am free, will remain free, and will never be caught.”