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Śahīdī Pārka | |
Former name | Shaheed Bhagat Singh Park |
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Established | August 9, 2023 |
Location | Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, Central Delhi, India |
Coordinates | 28°38′03.7″N 77°14′0.8″E / 28.634361°N 77.233556°E |
Type | Biographical museum |
Key holdings | Establishment site of Hindustan Socialist Republican Association by Bhagat Singh |
Collections | Upcycling |
Collection size | 106 |
Founder | Madan Lal Khurana |
Owner | Municipal Corporation of Delhi |
Public transit access | ITO metro station |
Nearest parking | Service lane |
Shaheedi Park (ISO: Śahīdī Pārka, transl. Martyrdom Park) is an outdoor museum park located on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg in Delhi, India.[1] Covering an area of 4.5 acres (18,000 m2),[2] displaying sculptures, memorials and installations that commemorate significant historical moments, prominent figures and historical eras that form an important part of Indian history.[3] The park was developed by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) as a part of its Waste to Art initiative.[4]
The collections of the museum have been made using various parts such as old trucks, cars, electricity poles, pipes, angle irons and rickshaws collected by the MCD.
History
[edit]Collection
[edit]The sculptures are grouped in the following sections, with the given descriptions being as is written on the plaques next to each section and sculpture.
Indian scientists
[edit]This is the only section in the park where no description has been given next to the sculptures. The description of the section is only provided in Hindi, unlike most sections in the museum where the description is provided in both Hindi and English. The description reads as follows:
"The rich heritage of our country includes a treasure trove of ancient scientific knowledge that has shaped the world in major ways. From astronomy and mathematics to medicine and metallurgy, scientists who lived centuries ago made unprecedented discoveries and formulated remarkable theories.
Mathematics and science were the most developed and accomplished in ancient India. There are many famous ancient Indian mathematicians like Aryabhatta, Baudhāyana, Bhaskaracharya, Brahmagupta and Mahaveeracharya. Apart from this, Nagarjuna, Kanada and Varahamihira were the most famous scientists. Despite this, medical science was very famous and highly developed in ancient India.
There are about 11 ancient inventions, discoveries and other most important achievements of science that are gifted to all the scientists and people around the world. These inventions are the Pythagorean theorem (700 BC), crucible steel (200 BC), plastic surgery (2000 BC), ancient dentistry (7000 BC), ancient flush toilet system (2500 BC), ruler (2400 BC). The wisdom and insights of these scientists continue to inspire and influence our understanding of the world."
The golden age of India
[edit]The description of the section reads as follows:
"The golden age of India is an important period in Indian history that showcases the pinnacle of Indian nationalism and cultural development. The Gupta dynasty era is a significant and prosperous time in Indian history. During this period, the Gupta rulers expanded their empire into various regions and made significant contributions to Indian culture, art, science, and literature. Indian education and culture saw great advancements during this time. Indian commerce and trade flourished, leading to the recognition of distinguished Indian citizens with golden coins (gold currency) for their contributions to Indian commerce citizenship. The golden age represents a time when Indian culture, science, art, literature, religion and social institutions experienced remarkable growth. This era saw the emergence of Indian national sentiment and the concept of national unity that enriched Indian society.
The golden age elevated Indian history to its highest peak on the global stage. Various kings and great warriors of this period composed their tales of valor, which are still revered in Indian history. In the golden age of India, there were several great kings and warriors, among them Chandragupta Maurya, who was one of the renowned rulers in Indian history and established the Mauryan dynasty. He created a vast empire in the Indian subcontinent through his military strategies and valor. Emperor Ashoka was another important ruler who transformed India into a prosperous and peaceful empire during the golden age He expanded the boundaries of his empire with military prowess and promoted Indian culture to convey religious messages. Samudragupta united the Indian subcontinent and expanded the empire's boundaries. King Harsha is famous in Indian history for his religious and cultural dissemination. Rulers like Mihir Bhoj and Rajendra Chola contributed to the development of various arts, literature, science, and religion, making them great rulers and warriors of India's golden age. These rulers and warriors influenced India's politics and culture during the golden age, earning recognition for their valor and warrior skills. They are remembered as great rulers and warriors in Indian history."
Sculpture | Name | Description as given on the plaque |
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Raja Porus | King Porus was a great ruler of the Porus dynasty. He ruled from 340 BCE to 315 BCE. His empire was spread between the Jhelum and Chenab rivers in Punjab. When the Greek ruler Alexander attempted to invade India, he encountered King Porus. While many Indian rulers had surrendered before the invading Alexander, King Porus, being a proud warrior, did not accept defeat.
Eventually, a fierce battle took place between them on the banks of the Jhelum river. This battle, which occurred in 326 BCE, is also known as the Battle of Hydapses. Despite having a relatively smaller army, King Porus displayed extraordinary bravery and inflicted heavy losses on Alexander's forces. Alexander was impressed by Porus's valor. He returned his kingdom to Porus and, after this battle, Alexander abandoned his plans for further conquest in India. Greek historical sources mention the period of King Porus's death between 321 BCE to 315 BCE. | |
Chanakya and Chandragupta | Chanakya was the prime minister of emperor Chandragupta Maurya. His real name was Vishnugupta. He was also known by the name Kautilya. Due to being the son of Shri Chanak, he was called Chanakya. However, due to the cunning use of his intelligence for creative works, he was called Kautilya.
Chanakya (375-283 BCE) was a great scholar of diplomacy, economics and politics. He composed the famous Indian political treatise called "Arthashastra." Therefore, he is considered a pioneer in the field of political science and economics in India. "Chanakya Neeti" is another famous book written by him. It is said that Chanakya went to Emperor Dhanananda of Magadha requesting his contribution to the establishment of a unified India. When insulted there, he made a vow that he would not tie his tuft until he destroyed the Nanda dynasty. Eventually, he played a significant role in placing Chandragupta Maurya on the throne of Magadha, replacing the Nandas. Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Maurya Empire, was one of the most courageous rulers of India. During the time of Chandragupta Maurya, India was a powerful nation. | |
Ashoka | Emperor Ashoka, also known as Ashoka the Great, was the third emperor of the Maurya dynasty. He ruled from 268 to 232 BCE. His empire extended from the present-day Afghanistan in the west to present-day Bangladesh in the east, with its capital at Pataliputra (present-day Patna). Ashoka, the protector of the Buddhist faith, is credited with the spread of Buddhism throughout Asia.
Most of the information about Ashoka is derived from his Brahmi inscriptions. According to his inscriptions, in the eighth year of his reign, Ashoka achieved victory over Kalinga after a brutal war. The destruction caused by the war prompted him to embrace remorse for violence. A few years later, he gradually became attracted to the teachings of Buddhism and dedicated himself to the propagation of "Dharma", or righteous conduct. In Sarnath, Ashoka erected a pillar known as the Lion Capital. At the top of this sculpture, there are four Indian lions seated back to back. After independence, this Lion Capital was adopted as the national emblem of India. Based on this emblem, the Ashoka Chakra, a depiction of the wheel of Ashoka, was placed in the centre of the white stripe of the Indian national flag. | |
Samudragupta | Samudragupta was the second and greatest emperor of the Gupta dynasty. He ruled from 335 to 375 CE. His reign is considered the beginning of the golden age for India. The capital of his empire was Pataliputra (present-day Patna).
Samudragupta's father was Emperor Chandragupta I of the Gupta dynasty, and his mother was Kumaradevi, a princess of the Lichchhavi Clan. A eulogy composed by his courtier Harisena called the Allahabad pillar inscription provides information about Samudragupta's extensive military conquests. According to it, his empire extended from the Ravi River in the west to the Brahmaputra River in the east and from the foothills of the Himalayas in the north to central India in the south. To establish his imperial sovereignty, he organized the Ashvamedha yajna (horse sacrifice). Samudragupta fought nearly a hundred battles and remained undefeated throughout his reign. While Samudragupta adhered to Vedic religion, he was tolerant towards other religions. He provided protection to the renowned Buddhist scholar Vasubandhu. Due to his devotion to righteousness, he is referred to as "Dharma-Bandhu" in the Allahabad pillar inscription. Samudragupta's gold coins and inscriptions indicate that he was a skilled poet and musician. He played the veena, a stringed musical instrument. | |
Harshavardhana | Harshavardhana was an emperor of the Pushyabhuti dynasty, who ruled from 606 to 647 CE. Harsha Vardhan was born in 590 CE in Thaneshwar. As soon as he became emperor, he expanded the Pushyabhuti Empire, also known as the Vardhana Empire, in a short span of time. He established dominance over almost the entire northern and northeastern parts of India.
He made Kannauj his capital city. Harsha Vardhan was a patron of art and literature. Scholars and artists from far and wide used to visit his court. The famous Chinese traveler Xuanzang also visited Harsha's court and praised him openly for his justice and generosity. Similarly, the Sanskrit poet Bana Bhatta has vividly described his life in his written work called "Harshacharita." Harshavardhana himself was well-versed in art and literature. He was fond of playing the veena (a musical instrument) himself, his three written plays, named Nagananda, Ratnavali and Priyadarshika, are invaluable treasures of Sanskrit literature. | |
Mihir Bhoj | Mihir Bhoj was the illustrious king of the Gurjara Pratihara dynasty. He ruled most of North India between 836 CE to 885 CE His capital was Kannauj.
Mihir Bhoj had a major role in preventing Arab attacks on India. According to an Arab historian, his cavalry was the most powerful at that time. The popular name of Mihir Bhoj is Bhoj. But to differentiate from other kings of the same name, he is called Pratham Bhoj, or Mihir Bhoj by adding his first name Mihir. Mihir Bhoj was a devotee of Vishnu. He assumed the title of 'Adi Varaha' which is also found inscribed on the coins of that period. | |
Rajendra Chola | Rajendra Chola was born in Thanjavur. The year of his birth is considered to be 971 CE. He was the son of the renowned ruler Rajaraja I, who commissioned the construction of the Rajarajeshwaram Temple in Thanjavur. His mother's name was Mahadevi. Rajendra Chola was the greatest ruler of the Chola dynasty. Through his conquests, he established the Chola Empire as the most powerful kingdom in South India. He is also known by the names Rajendra Chola I and Rajendra the Great.
He ruled from 1014 CE to 1044 CE. Due to his role in preserving the arts, promoting trade, and expanding the Chola Empire, he was considered the most important ruler of Southeast Asia in the 11th century. Rajendra Chola had a powerful navy that made significant contributions to the conquest of Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. Due to the dominance of his navy, the Bay of Bengal was referred to as the "Chola Lake" during his reign. After his victory over the Ganges river, he assumed the title of "Gangaikonda" (Conqueror of the Ganges), on the other hand, his title "Kadaramkonda" (Conqueror of Kadaram) was associated with his campaigns in Southeast Asia. |
The wars against foreign invaders
[edit]The section is located in the same area as the golden age of India. Similar to the section of Indian scientists, the description of this section is also only provided in Hindi and not in English. However, the description before all the sculptures are provided in both Hindi and English. The description reads as follows:
"When the power of Indian rulers started decreasing, foreign powers started looking for an opportunity to attack India. Indian people fought against foreign invasions and challenged them with their amazing courage and strength. In which Maharana Hamir Dev was on the throne of Mewar. Maharana Hamir Dev enriched Indian history with his bravery and war skills during his reign. Apart from this, the reign of Rana Kumbha is an important chapter in the history of Rajasthan which is appreciated for his bravery, art, culture and valor. Harihar and Bukka established the Vijay Nagar Empire. The Vijay Nagar Empire protected India against foreign invasions. Rana Sanga enriched Indian history with his bravery, courage and war skills during his rule. Hemu's adventurous nature and his struggle to become a powerful emperor are memorable in Indian history.
Their lives full of valor and war skills have given them a place as a heritage of Indian history. Raja Chhatrasal was a great king and warrior in Indian history. He created a big empire from a small state of Bundelkhand and became famous for his war skills. The biggest contribution in this was made by Prithviraj Chauhan, who is remembered as a brave warrior in Indian history. His courage, war skills and leadership are indelible marks on the pages of Indian history. However, the defeat in the double war against him became the beginning of the end of his reign. Maharana Pratap never compromised with Akbar to maintain his independence.
Maharana Pratap is remembered in Indian history as a brave warrior, freedom fighter and patriotic king. Despite many conflicts during his reign, he made an incredible place in Indian history with his war skills and amazing courage. During this period, Indian kingdoms fought against foreign invasions with great struggle and struggled to save their country. This period in Indian history is considered a symbol of prosperity and patriotism of brave warriors."
Sculpture | Name | Description as given on the plaque |
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Prithviraj Chauhan | Prithviraj III, also known as Prithviraj Chauhan (reign: 1178-1192), was a valiant king of the Chauhan dynasty. He held control over a significant territory in present-day Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. His capital was Ajmer, and he is credited with the construction of the Qila Rai Pithora in Delhi. Emperor Prithviraj Chauhan was born in 1166 in the royal household of King Someshwar Chauhan on Ajmer. His mother was Queen Karpuri Devi, the only daughter of Delhi's King Anangpal II. Prithviraj Chauhan's talents started to manifest from his childhood. After his father's demise, he ascended to the throne of the Rajgad of Ajmer at the age of 13. By 1190, the ruler of Ghazni, Mohammad Ghori, had already conquered Lahore, Peshawar and Sialkot. Meanwhile, the power of the Chauhans had grown, and they had successfully defeated or repelled several invading Turkic forces. In this context, a battle occured in Tarain (near modern-day Karnal) between Mohammad Ghori and Prihviraj Chauhan in 1191 This battle, known as the First Battle of Tarain, was fought due to the territorial claims of both parties on Tabarhind. According to historians, Mohammad Ghori's army suffered a devastating defeat, and he barely managed to escape with his life. Following this, Prithviraj Chauhan advanced further and achieved victory at Tarain after a year-long siege. The Second Battle of Tarain took place in 1192, during which Ghori prevailed due to the superiority of his forces. Prithviraj managed to escape from the battlefield but was captured near Sirsa. The Turkish forces then attacked and captured Ajmer as well. Prithviraj was granted permission to rule over Ajmer for some time, but then he was executed on charges of alleged conspiracy. Prithviraj Chauhan's childhood friend and court poet, Chand Bardai, composed the epic poem "Prithviraj Raso," which vividly describes his life and character. | |
Rana Kumbha | Kumbhakarna Singh (reign 1433-1468), also known as Maharana Kumbha, or Rana Kumbha, was a ruler of the Mewar Kingdom in present-day Rajasthan. He belonged to the Sisodia branch of Rajputs and is renowned for his military successes against foreign invasions and his patronage of art, music and architecture.
During his reign, Rana Kumbha achieved victory over Sultan Mahmud Khiji and not only secured Mewar but also expanded his territory. He accomplished this feat during a time when he was surrounded by enemies such as Mahmud Khilji of Malwa, Qutbuddin Ahmad Shah II of the Gujarat Sultanate, Shams Khan of Nagpur, and Rao Jodha of Marwar. The significance of Rana Kumbha lies in his cultural contributions. His reign is considered the golden age of architectural art. He constructed numerous forts, temples, and reservoirs and embellished Chittorgarh in various ways. The famous fort of Kumbhalgarh is his unique creation. His victory pillar in Chittorgarh is counted among the finest sculptures in the world. Each stone of the pillar bears the imprint of his artistic passion, intellect and personality. | |
Maharana Pratap | Maharana Pratap Singh (9 May 1540 - 19 January 1597) was the ruler of the Sisodia Rajput dynasty in Mewar. His name is immortalized in history for his valour, bravery, sacrifice, heroism, and unwavering resolve. He refused to accept the sovereignty of Mughal emperor Akbar and fought against him for years. He waged guerrilla warfare against the Mughals, inspiring many patriots, including Shivaji, to resist the Mughal rule. Pratap was born in the house of Maharana Uday Singh and Queen Jaiwanta Bai in the present-day Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan. From childhood, Prince Pratap was courageous and proud. The local people affectionately addressed him as "Kika". After the death of Maharana Uday Singh, he ascended to the throne as the 54th ruler of Mewar in 1572. When Maharana Pratap took charge of the kingdom, the economy of Mewar had suffered due to the constant truffles with the Mughals. Most parts of Mewar, including Chittorgarh, had already come under the control of the Mughal Sultanate. Akbar wanted to establish his authority over the remaining territories of Mewar of create a secure trade route to Gujarat. Akbar proposed Maharana Pratap to accept Mughal sovereignty, but it was unacceptable to the proud Pratap. And finally, Akbar sent a massive Mughal army of 90,000 soldiers, led by Man Singh, to subdue Maharana Pratap. The great warrior Maharana Pratap was already prepared for the battle. His army consisted of approximately 20,000 Rajputs, Bhils, and Pathan warriors. And On 18 June 1576, a fierce battle took place between the Mughals and the forces of Mewar. The battlefield, located near Haldighati in present-day Rajasthan is known as the Battle of Haldighati. Mounted on his famous horse Chetak, Maharana Pratap displayed unmatched valour in this battle. However, due to the overwhelming numerical superiority of the Mughal army, they eventually gained the upper hand. Even then, they did not achieve success in capturing Maharana Pratap. Returning safely to the jungles, Maharana Pratap continued his fight. Now, he adopted a guerrilla warfare strategy. With him in command, the Mughal army could never find peace in Mewar. During a hunt while pulling the bowstring during a tiger hunt, Maharana Pratap passed away at the age of 57 and ascended to heaven. | |
Harihara and Bukka | Harihara and Bukka (reign 1336-1377) were two brothers who established an independent Hindu empire in Vijayanagara. Located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, Vijayanagara was the most renowned empire in the history of South India. Harihara (also known as Hakka) and Bukka were sons of Sangama Yadav, a noble in the court of the Hoysala rulers. They founded the Sangama dynasty, which was the first among the four dynasties to rule over the Vijayanagara Empire.
Harihara was crowned in April 1336, and soon with the assistance of his brother Bukka, he began the rapid expansion of their kingdom. In 1346, they assimilated the Hoysala Kingdom of Madurai into Vijayanagara. Harihara extended his empire from the eastern to the western coast, and from the northern to the southern region between the Krishna and Kaveri rivers. After Harihara's death in 1356, his brother Bukka ascended the throne of Vijayanagara. Bukka's reign lasted until 1377. | |
Maharana Sanga | Maharana Sangram Singh (1482-1528), also known as Rana Sanga or Maharana Sanga, was a renowned ruler of the Sisodia dynasty. He ruled over the traditional region of Mewar in present-day Rajasthan. Due to his capable governance during the beginning of the 16th century, Mewar started to be counted among the most powerful states in North India. He extended his rule not only over his capital, Chittorgarh but also over certain parts of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh along with present-day Rajasthan.
Throughout his long military career, Rana Sanga achieved several victories against neighboring invaders, particularly against the Lodhi dynasty of Delhi. He decisively defeated Sultan Ibrahim Lodhi of Delhi in the battles of Khatoli and Dholpur. Rana Sanga was such a valiant warrior that despite losing one arm, one eye, one leg, and sustaining countless wounds, his valor remained unparalleled. | |
Raja Hemu | ||
Maharaja Chhatrasal | Maharaja Chhatrasal Judev Bundela (1649-1731) was a renowned warrior of medieval India who fought against the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and established his kingdom in Bundelkhand. Popularly known as Shivaji of Bundelkhand, Chhatrasal strategically challenged the Mughal rulers and inflicted significant losses upon them. Through his warfare tactics and guerrilla warfare, he fought battles at various locations against the Mughal army and successfully ended Mughal dominance in Bundelkhand. Chhatrasal was only 12 years old when the Mughals killed his father, Champat Rai of Mahora. Inspired by the ideals of Chhatrapati Shivaji, Chhatrasal embarked on a journey to Maharashtra and sought his guidance.
In the 1720s, Maharaja Chhatrasal expelled the Mughals from Bundelkhand. In December 1728, Chhatrasal sought assistance from Maratha Peshwa Bajirao I against the army of Mughal subedar Muhammad Bangash. Bajirao I led his army towards Bundelkhand and launched attacks on several Mughal outposts. Disrupting Bangash's forces. Ultimately, Bangash was allowed to retreat safely on the condition that he would never launch aggression against Bundelkhand again. Maharaja Chhatrasal was not only a courageous warrior but also a patron and lover of literature and art. Many renowned poets and artists, including Kavi Bhushan, adorned his court. These lines resonate with pride regarding the valor of Maharaja Chhatrasal: "It Yamuna ut Narmada it Chambal ut Tons, Chhatrasal so laran ki rahi na kahu hauns." | |
Raja Surajmal | Raja Surajmal or Sujan Singh (February 13, 1707 - December 25, 1763) was the Jat king of Bharatpur in present-day Rajasthan. His domain included regions from Delhi and Agra to Aligarh, Bulandshahr, Faridabad, Hathras, Mathura, Mewat, Muzaffarnagar, Meerut, and Palwal. Raja Surajmal embodied the virtues of valour, courage, farsightedness, diplomacy, and astuteness. A contemporary historian referred to him as the "Plato of the Jats." Surajmal, the son of Raja Badan Singh, gained popularity in the Braj region from his youth due to his bravery.
He established the Bharatpur Principality in 1733. Raja Surajmal is remembered with great respect and honor among the North Indian kings who gave a resounding response to foreign invasions. When Maratha leader Sadashivrao Bhau was advancing to defeat Ahmad Shah Abdali, the Peshwa Balaji Bajirao advised him to seek the support of Raja Surajmal. In the third battle of Panipat, which took place on January 14, 1761, the Marathas suffered a defeat. If there had been no disagreement between Maharaja Surajmal and Sadashivrao Bhau, the outcome of this battle would have been highly favourable for India. Raja Surajmal attained martyrdom on December 25, 1763, while fighting against Nawab Najibuddaula. |
The Maratha Empire
[edit]The description of the section on the plaque reads as follows:
"The Maratha Empire was an important Indian empire until 1694 AD. It was established by Chhatrapati Shivaji and was expanded over various regions of the Maharashtra state. The Maratha Empire was renowned for its cleverness, military prowess, and administrative capabilities. This period was also crucial for the development of Marathi culture and language in Indian history. Chhatrapati Shivaji was a great Indian warrior and ruler who founded the Maratha Empire in the 17th and 18th centuries. He gained fame for his valor, military skills, and political acumen. Due to Shivaji's efforts, the Maratha Empire grew to become a significant state, creating a distinct identity in Indian history. Chhatrapati Shivaji's eldest son, Sambhaji Maharaj, continued his father's legacy and played a key role in solidifying the Maratha Empire. He was known for his warrior spirit and political acumen. Under his leadership, the Maratha Empire reached new heights.
Sambhaji Maharaj's reign was followed by several important rulers. Sahuji Maharaj made significant contributions to the development and consolidation of the Maratha empire. His reign saw the construction of large forts and imperial symbols. He maintained friendly relations with various emperors and rulers of his time and was considered a shining star of the empire.
Balaji Vishwanath, one of the prominent ministers of the Maratha Empire, served as the first Peshwa of Maharashtra and was the grandson of Shivaji. He played a crucial role in elevating the Maratha Empire to greater heights. Peshwa Bajirao I was a notable Peshwa who contributed significantly to the empire's growth and strengthening. He organized the Maratha Army, expanded the empire's territories and was known for his strategic acumen. He is remembered for his contributions to making the Maratha Empire robust.
Mahadji Shinde expanded the Maratha Empire's territories and made significant contributions to trade, cultural development, and foreign relations during his reign. The Marathas were renowned for their military strength and innovative warfare techniques. They employed guerrilla warfare and organized their cavalries by units efficiently. The Marathas were skilled administrators, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is revered as a national hero in India. His visionary leadership, administrative skills, and courage continue to inspire people today. The impact of the Maratha Empire and contributions of its leaders have deeply influenced India's culture, politics, and identity. The legacy of these rulers is held in high regard."
Sculpture | Name | Description as given on the plaque |
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Chhatrapati Shivaji | Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (February 19, 1630 - April 3, 1680) was one of the great warrior kings of India. Along with being an extremely brave warrior, he was also a skilled ruler and strategist. He laid the foundation of the Maratha Empire in Western India in 1674. Shivaji was born on February 19, 1630 near Pune at the Shivneri Fort. His father, Shahaji Bhosale, was among the powerful Maratha nobles of the Bijapur Sultanate. His mother, Jijabai, was the daughter of Yadava rulers of Devagiri. Shivaji's childhood was shaped under the guidance of his mother. He was inherently talented with sharp intellect and exceptional abilities. At a young age, he had mastered sword fighting, warfare, and horse riding. He used to engage in battles and castle conquest games with his friends.
During his adolescence, the responsibility of managing the Pune Estate fell upon him. At that time, Bijapur was troubled by internal conflicts and Mughal invasions. When Adil Shah fell ill, Bijapur was engulfed in chaos, and Shivaji Maharaj seized the opportunity to challenge Bijapur. He adopted a policy of capturing forts of the Bijapur Sultanate one by one, bringing several forts in the Pune region under his control. Shivaji foiled Adil Shah's conspiracy in time. Adil Shah's forces failed to capture him, but they managed to imprison Shivaji's father, Shahaji. However, through his wit, Shivaji not only freed his father from Adil Shah's captivity but also captured the forts of Purandar and Javali. The most famous and significant event of Shivaji's life was his encounter with Afzal Khan in 1659. Ali Adil Shah II, the young sultan of Bijapur, had sent his trusted commander Afzal Khan with a large army to attack Shivaji. When Afzal Khan confronted Shivaji in battle, Shivaji displayed his exceptional fighting skills and outsmarted Afzal Khan. Sensing danger, Afzal Khan proposed a meeting with Shivaji to discuss peace near the Pratapgad Fort. During this meeting, Afzal Khan attempted to stab Shivaji. But Shivaji had already taken precautions by wearing armor beneath his attire. Due to his intelligence, Shivaji not only escape unharmed but also killed the treacherous Afzal Khan with his concealed weapons. Similarly, in 1666, when Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb deceitfully captured him in Agra, Shivaji managed to escape safely by hiding in a basket of fruits. After reclaiming all his forts that had come under Mughal control under the treaty of Purandar, Shivaji Maharaj assumed the title of Chhatrapati in June 1674. | |
Chhatrapati Sambhaji | Sambhaji Bhonsle (14 May 1657 - 11 March 1689) was the second Chhatrapati (emperor) of the Maratha Empire. He was the eldest son of Shivaji, the founder of the Maratha Empire. Sambhaji's rule (1681-1689) was marked by significant struggles of the Marathas against the Mughals and other neighboring powers.
Sambhaji Maharaj was born in the Purandar Fort. When he was just two years old, his mother Saibai passed away unexpectedly. Thereafter, his care was taken over by his stepmother Rajmata Jijabai. He was also addressed as "Chhava," which means "lion's cub" in Marathi. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj took Sambhaji along during his Agra campaign when Sambhaji was only nine years old. Sambhaji learned political strategies and guerrilla tactics from a young age. Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj not only defended the Maratha Empire with his valor but also expanded its territories within a short span of time. In 1689, Sambhaji was captured by the Mughal Army. He was presented before Aurangzeb's court. They put immense pressure on Sambhaji to convert to Islam, but he refused to surrender before Aurangzeb's atrocities. Ultimately, Sambhaji Maharaj met his martyrdom while in Mughal captivity. | |
Balaji Vishwanath Bhatt | Balaji Vishwanath Bhatt (1662-1720) was the first hereditary Peshwa (prime minister) of the Maratha Empire. He was appointed as Peshwa by the young Maratha emperor, Shahu, in November 1713. Pehswa Balaji Vishwanath is regarded as the "second founder of the Maratha Empire" for his extraordinary contributions in establishing a strong foundation for the empire.
Balaji Vishwanath was born in Shrivardhan in present-day Maharashtra. His father, Vishwanath Pant Bhatt, was a hereditary Deshmukh of Shrivardhan. When Shahu, the son of Sambhaji, was released from Mughal captivity after Aurangzeb's death, Balaji motivated Dhanoji Jadav to support Shahu as the rightful claimant to the Maratha throne. Subsequently, when a brief power struggle arose between Shahu and his aunt Tarabai for control of the Maratha throne, Balaji Vishwanath aided Shahu by organizing the army. Balaji Vishwanath was also a skilled administrator. He introduced the system of granting jagirs (land revenue assignments) to Maratha chiefs to keep them satisfied. He also formed a cooperative council of all the chiefs and appointed Shahu as its Chhatrapati (emperor). Due to the shrewd strategies of Balaji Vishwanath, the Maratha Empire achieved considerable success in reclaiming its glorious past within a few years. As a reward for his significant services, Emperor Shahu made the position of Peshwa hereditary in the Vishwanath family. | |
Peshwa Bajirao | Peshwa Bajirao I (1700-1740), also known as Bajirao Ballal, was a great military leader of the Maratha Empire After the death of Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath Bhatt in 1720, Chhatrapati Shahuji Maharaj appointed his son Bajirao as the next Peshwa and made this position hereditary as the prime minister.
During his two-decade-long tenure, Bajirao elevated the power and influence of the Peshwa to unprecedented heights. With his skilled leadership and military prowess, he significantly expanded Maratha dominance, particularly in the Malwa region and Gujarat. His victorious campaigns are considered instrumental in the decline of the Mughal Empire. Bajirao I became Peshwa at the young age of twenty, and he participated in a total of 41 battles, emerging victorious in all of them. His first major victory came in 1728 when he decisively defeated the army of Nizam Asaf Jah in the battle of Palkhed. The following year, Peshwa Bajirao successfully aided Maharaja Chhatrasal of Bundelkhand against Muhammad Khan Bangash. Grateful for his assistance, Maharaja Chhatrasal arranged the marriage of his daughter Mastani to Bajirao and also bestowed upon him a significant estate. | |
Sadashivrao Bhau | Sadashivrao Bhau (August 3, 1730 - January 14, 1761) was a commander of the Maratha Army. He was the younger brother of Peshwa Bajirao I and the son of Chimaji Appa. Sadashivrao Bhau led the Maratha Army in the third battle of Panipat.
Born into the Peshwa family, which played a crucial role in the expansion of the Maratha Empire, Sadashivrao Bhau was brave and visionary from his childhood. His first significant achievement was establishing Maratha dominance in western Karnataka in 1746. When news of Ahmad Shah's advances towards Delhi and the death of Dattaji Scindia in the battle of Burari Ghat reached the Marathas, Peshwa Balaji Rao chose Sadashivrao Bhau to lead the fight against Ahmad Shah. After a siege of two and a half months, the third battle of Panipat, one of the bloodiest battles in Indian history began on January 14, 1761. Displaying extraordinary valor, Sadashivrao Bhau attained martyrdom. | |
Mahadji Shinde |
The Sikh Empire
[edit]The section is located in the same area as the Maratha Empire, with no physical boundary between the two. The description of the section on the plaque reads as follows:
"Sikh Empire, also known as the "Empire of Sikhism," existed in India during the 18th and 19th centuries. This empire developed based on the principles of Sikhism, a religious faith founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469-1539) and further developed by the 10th guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji (1666-1708). Guru Gobind Singh Ji established the Khalsa Army in 1699, creating a military organization for the Sikh community. The Khalsa Army played a significant role in defending Sikhism and displayed valor in various battles.
In the 18th century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh emerged as a prominent Sikh leader. In 1799, he consolidated most of the Punjab region under his rule, establishing the Sikh Empire. Under his leadership, the Sikh Empire reached its zenith and experienced a period of prosperity. Maharaja Ranjit Singh implemented reforms to promote peace, justice, and prosperity in Punjab. His rule saw the rise of the Sikh faither, and the Sikh soldiers, known as "Sant Sipahi," were know for their commitment to both religion and service.
Banda Singh Bahadur was a notable Sikh warrior who fought alongside Guru Gobind Singh Ji to defend Sikhism. His name is commemorated as a symbol of religious and freedom struggles. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia established a Sikh state in 1753 at the village of Gulabgarh in Sirhind, contributing to the growth of the Sikh Empire. Baba Deep Singh was a revered Sikh warrior who actively participated in battles. He exemplified courage and sacrifice and inspired fellow Sikhs with his heroic actions. Mai Bhago was a Sikh woman warrior who displayed courage in defending the Sikh faith. Her story particularly inspires Sikh female warriors who fought with valor.
Hari Singh Nalwa was instrumental in expanding the Sikh Empire's territories and led victorious campaigns, including battles in Afghanistan. He played a crucial role in Maharaja Ranjit Singh's administration and helped integrate Peshawar and Attock into the Sikh Empire. These Sikh warriors made significant contributions to Indian history. They demonstrated valor, courage, and selfless service in defense of their faith, rights, and the independence of their nation. Their actions left a deep impact on Sikh society, enhancing its strength, capabilities, and dignity. Their bravery, heroism, and service continue to be honored and respected in Indian history."
Sculpture | Name | Description as given on the plaque |
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Maharaja Ranjit Singh | Maharaja Ranjit Singh (13 November 1780 - 27 June 1839) was the first maharaja of the Sikh Empire. Due to his bravery, he was known as the lion of Punjab. Ranjit Singh first entered the battlefield at the tender age of 10, accompanying his father. After his father's demise, he had to engage in several battles at a young age to fend off Afghan invasions. After displaying valor in these battles, Ranjit Singh was proclaimed the Maharaja of Punjab at the age of only 20. During his 40 year reign, he prevented the British from encroaching upon his empire.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh's empire extended from the Khyber Pass in the west to the Hindukush in the south and the Hazara Valley in the north. Additionally, regions such as Kashmir, Ladakh, Patiala, Jind, and Nabha Valley were also part of his dominion. Ranjit Singh was born into the family of Mahan Singh and Raj Kaur in Gujranwala, Punjab (now in Pakistan). During his childhood, he lost vision in one eye due to smallpox. At that time, Punjab was divided into several misls, which were ruled by Sikh chieftains. Ranjit Singh's father, Sardar Sukharchand Misl, was a prominent leader with his headquarters in Gujranwala. On 12 April 1801, Ranjit Singh was crowned as the Maharaja of Punjab. He established the powerful indigenous army called the Sikh Khalsa Fauj. In 1802, he annexed Amritsar into his empire. Subsequently, he defeated Afghan ruler Qutb-ud-Din and incorporated Kasur in 1807, Multan in 1818, and Kashmir in 1819 into his Sikh Empire. Ranjit Singh also gained control over the Pashtun region, including Peshawar, becoming the first non-Muslim ruler to do so. Under his leadership, Punjab was a highly powerful province. His modern and formidable army prevented the British from conquering Punjab for decades. Punjab was the only province in India that did not fall under British rule. Maharaja Ranjit Singh established law and order and upheld secular administration in his empire. Ranjit Singh adorned the Golden Temple in Amritsar with marble and gold. Since then, this sacred Sikh shrine came to be known as the Golden Temple. The priceless Koh-i-Noor diamond was a prized possession in Maharaja Ranjit Singh's treasury. In his final years, Maharaja Ranjit Singh suffered from illness and passed away in 1839. | |
Banda Singh Bahadur | Banda Singh Bahadur (27 October 1670 - 9 June 1716) was a Sikh warrior and the commander-in-chief of the Khalsa Army. His original name was Lachman Dev. He was the first Sikh military commander to wage war against the Mughal rulers of India. He shattered the illusion of the invincibility of the Mughals, avenged the martyrdom of the younger Sahibzadass, and laid the foundation of the sovereign Khalsa Raj in the fortress of Lohgarh.
Banda Singh Bahadur was born in a Rajput family in Rajouri, present-day Jammu and Kashmir. At a very young age, he renounced his home, became a Bairagi, and he started to be known as Madho Das Bairagi. He established his ashram on the banks of the Godavari River in Nanded, Maharashtra. It was in Nanded that he had a meeting with Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, in 1708. Influenced by the guru, Madho Das embraced the Khalsa Panth and became a disciple of the guru. The guru gave him the name "Gurubaksh Singh," but due to his valor, he became famous as Banda Singh Bahadur. In 1710, Banda Bahadur killed Wazir Khan, the Mughal faujdar of Sirhind, who had ordered the execution of Guru Gobind Singh's sons. Banda Bahadur's army captured the fortress of Lohgarh. Proclaiming Lohgarh as the capital, Banda Bahadur issued coins in the name of the Guru. After the death of Bahadur Shah, his nephew Farrukhsiyar became the Mughal emperor. He ordered an expedition against Banda Singh Bahadur. After three years of his campaign, Banda Bahadur was captured. Finally, Banda Bahadur and his companions were arrested in the fort of Gurdas Nangal. After an eight-month siege, in December 1715, Banda Bahadur and his companions were captured. They were brought to Delhi, subjected to severe torture and martyred. | |
Baba Deep Singh | Baba Deep Singh (whose real name was Bhag Mal) is one of the heroes in Indian history who initiated the Sikh uprising and made significant contributions to strengthen the Sikh faith. Baba Deep Singh was born on November 13, 1757, in Punjab. Throughout his life, he struggled for the Sikh religion and fought to ensure the safety of his fellow devotees. He worshipped and followed the teachings of the tenth Sikh guru, Guru Gobind Singh.
Due to his exceptional military qualities and courage from a young age, Baba Deep Singh came to be known as "Baba." He became an ideal figure for many people during his lifetime and served as a source of inspiration for his fellow Sikh soldiers. Baba Deep Singh embarked on a significant journey of struggle for the Sikh faith, displaying valor in the fight for their freedom through sacrifice, dedication, and perseverance. He assisted in the establishment of the Sikh Empire under the guidance of Banda Singh Bahadur and set high standards of sacrifice and service in his own life. Baba Deep Singh passed away on February 25, 1788. He sacrificed his life in defense of the Sikh faith during the battle with Mughal rulers. His head was separated from his body, but his spirit for protecting the Sikh religion arose and his body stood upright. He lifted his head and completed a symbolic circumambulation of the revered Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar before finally surrendering his life. His martyrdom remains an exemplary sacrifice for the Sikh faith to this day. | |
Jassa Singh Ahluwalia | Jassa Singh Ahluwalia was a prominent Sikh leader and maharaja who played a crucial role during the struggle of the Sikh Empire. He contributed to the fight against oppression and British imperialism during the 18th century. Jassa Singh Ahluwalia was born in 1718 CE. He devoted himself to the Sikh faith and aided in the establishment of the Sikh Empire by joining forces with Banda Singh Bahadur. Due to his abilities and administrative skills, Jassa Singh Ahluwalia held a significant position as the chief leader of Sikh organizations He organized the Sikh community, built political and military organizations, and formed an alliance with the Sikh emperor, Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
In 1762 CE, Jassa Singh Ahluwalia declared his independence and sovereignty near the Red Fort, earning him the recognition of the "Maharaja of the Sikhs". He was the first maharaja of the Sikh Empire and united the Sikh community, establishing a powerful and autonomous kingdom. After his death in 1783c CE, Jassa Singh Ahluwalia left behind a remarkable legacy as an important and prominent Sikh leader. His literary, political and military contributions remain alive in the Sikh community to this day. | |
Mai Bhago | Mai Bhago was born in Jhabal Kalan (now Amritsar). Her parents followed the Sikh faith and used to take young Bhag Kaur to meet Guru Gobind Singh Ji in Anandpur. Mai Bhago desired to learn weaponry and martial arts there, but her father brought her back home. At home, she received training in archery, horse riding, and martial arts from her father. Her sole aspiration was to join Guru Gobind Singh Ji's army.
Mai Bhago always kept a spear with her and continued her practice in her village. She got married to Nidhan Singh. Around 1704-05, with the help of some hill chiefs from Himachal Pradesh, the Mughals attacked Anandpur. The forty Sikhs from Mai Bhago's village were not granted permission to fight with the Mughals, so they returned to the village. Mai Bhago's husband and two brothers were among them. Mai Bhago couldn't believe that some people had returned, leaving their Guru behind. She and other women scolded these Sikhs for their cowardice. Mai Bhago reignited bravery and devotion to the Guru in these Sikhs. Mai Bhago adopted male attire. Guru Gobind Singh had promised his men that they would all be safe, but in the chaos and confusion, many of his sons and followers were killed. A few survivors reached the village of Khidrana in present-day Firozpur, Punjab, where Mai Bhago also arrived with those forty Sikhs. In 1705, with the strength of 250 Sikhs and 40 followers, Mai Bhago confronted the Mughal forces in a battle. In this battle, only Mai Bhago survived, and all other Sikhs attained martyrdom. Guru Gobind Singh was left grief-stricken by the sacrifice of those forty Sikhs, and he called them "Chali Mukte." Today, near the Khidrana Pond, there is a Gurdwara known as "Sri Muktsar Sahib" in their honor. | |
Hari Singh Nalwa | Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa (1791-1837) was the commander-in-chief of the Sikh Khalsa Army under Maharaja Ranjit Singh. He is regarded as one of the finest military leaders in India in terms of strategy and battlefield prowess. Following the instructions of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, Hari Singh expanded the boundaries of the Sikh Empire, reaching from Punjab to Kashmir and the Khyber Pass.
Hari Singh was born in Gujranwala, Punjab. His father's name was Gurdayal Singh Uppal, and his mother's name was Dharam Kaur. In 1805, during a festival called Vasantotsav, Hari Singh showcased his extraordinary talent in wrestling, spear throwing, and archery. Impressed by his skills, Maharaja Ranjit Singh recruited him into his army. Soon, he became one of the trusted military commanders of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. During the three decades of Maharaja Ranjit Singh's reigh, Hari Singh Nalwa continuously fought against the Afghans. In these fierce battles, he achieved victories and established Sikh rule in places like Kasur, Multan, Siyalkot, Attock and Peshawar. Maharaja Ranjit Singh appointed Hari Singh Nalwa as the governor of Kashmir and Peshawar. While fighting in the battle of Jamrud against the Afghans, Hari Singh Nalwa attained martyrdom in 1837. |
First War of Independence
[edit]Just like Indian scientists and the wars against foreign invaders, this section only has the description given in Hindi. The description of the sculptures, however, is available in both Hindi and English. The description of the section on the plaque can be roughly translated as follows:
"The First War of Independence has been an important chapter in Indian history from 1818 to 1858 AD, in which many warriors fought for the independence of their nation with great valor and determination. During this time, Rani Chennamma, playing the role of a warrior who changed the walls of Indian independence, fought against the British Empire with great war skills. She faced the rebellion through her patriotism and courage. At the same time, the Ahom rebellion in 1857[a] demonstrated its amazing bravery in the form of the freedom struggle of Assam. The Ahom rebellion was carried out against the British Empire. Mangal Pandey was a brave soldier of the Veer Indian Army, who rebelled in Barrackpur and set an example of Indian heroes by firing the first bullet of Indian independence.
Rani Laxmibai was a great warrior and Indian freedom fighter who challenged the British invaders in the battles of Jwara and Kanpur. Laxmibai defended the capital of Jhansi with her valor and amazing war skills and fought against the British. Tatya Tope also fought for Indian independence with his determination and war skills and inspired his countrymen with his bravery.
The valour and sacrifice of these two heroes took the Indian independence movement to a new height. Veer Kunwar Singh fought valiantly in the freedom struggle of 1857 and struggled for his country. These great heroes fought for the independence of the country by sacrificing their lives and gave the message of a new struggle. Inspired by their sacrificial valour, today India has become an independent and prosperous nation. The sacrifice of these heroes makes us feel proud and reminds us that we must fulfill our duties towards our country and always be ready to protect our freedom."
Sculpture | Name | Description as given on the plaque |
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Mangal Pandey | Mangal Pandey (19 July 1827 - 8 April 1857) is known as one of the prominent warriors of the Indian independence struggle. He blew the bugle for the first battle of freedom in 1857. His immense patriotism and fearless personality made the British authorities realize the strength of the common Indians for the first time. Mangal Pandey was born in the village of Nagwa in the present-day Gazipur district of Uttar Pradesh. He was posted in the 34th infantry regiment in Barrackpore. In 1857, the British East India Company introduced the new Enfield rifle. It required biting off the cartridge that was filled with gunpowder using one's teeth. To prevent any tampering, animal fat was used to grease the cartridge's outer covering. A rumor spread among the soldiers that the grease used in the cartridge was made from cow and pig fat. This rumor further fueled the common belief among Indian soldiers that the British intentionally humiliated them. Mangal Pandey became so infuriated by this that he took an oath to eliminate the British.
On 29 March 1857, at the parade ground of Barrackpore, Mangal Pandey openly rebelled. Shouting the slogan "maro firangi ko" (kill the British), he fired a shot at regiment officer Lieutenant Baugh. Later, the British somehow managed to capture Mangal Pandey. Following a hasty court-martial, he was hanged on 8 April. However, the spark ignited by Mangal Pandey's rebellion had already spread, Just a month later, on 10 May, Indian soldiers revolted in Meerut cantonment. | |
Rani Chennamma | Rani Chennamma (23 October 1778 - 21 February 1829) was the queen of the princely state of Kittur, in present-day Karnataka. She led an armed resistance against the British East India Company in 1824. She was the first and prominent among the women rulers to lead a rebellion against British colonialism. The story of Rani Chennamma is similar to the tale of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi. Therefore, she is also called the "Lakshmibai of Karnataka".
After marrying Raja Mallasaraja, she became the queen of Kittur. However, soon fate started playing cruel jokes on her. First, her husband passed away, followed by the death of her only son in 1824. After the death of her son, she adopted a child named Shivalingappa and declared him the heir to her throne. But the British East India Company did not approve of this. The British set their eyes on the wealth of Kittur and ordered the removal of Shivalingappa. Rani Chennamma politely refused their order. This led to a conflict between Rani Chennamma and the British, in which the British Army suffered heavy losses. Many British officers were either killed or captured. Compelled by circumstances, the British had to make a treaty with Kittur, promising not to engage in war with them again. However, a few months later, the British broke their promise and launched another attack on Rani Chennamma. Once again, Rani Chennamma fought bravely, but due to the limited number of soldiers and resources compared to the British, she was defeated. She was captured and imprisoned in the Belgaum Fort. It was in captivity that she achieved martyrdom. | |
The Ahom rebellion | The Ahom Rebellion (1828) was a significant uprising against the British in present-day Assam. It holds an important place in the series of tribal resistances against the British rule. The roots of the Ahom Rebellion can be traced back to the first Anglo-Burmese War (1824-26). The British East India Company had assured the Ahom king and chiefs that their soldiers would withdraw from the Ahom territories after the conclusion of the war with Burma. However, the British reneged on their promise. The Ahom people expressed their displeasure and asked the East India Company to leave Assam.
When dissatisfaction among the Ahom people grew, Gomdhar Konwar, an Ahom prince, initiated the rebellion against the British. The key leaders who supported Gomdhar were Dhanjoi Borgohain and Jayram Kharagoria Phukan. Under the leadership, a rebel group advanced towards the British fort in Rangpur. However, their plan was exposed, and the British suppressed the rebellion. Although Gomdhar and some of his companions managed to escape and hide in the Naga hills, the British exerted pressure and forced their surrender. Gomdhar was declared a traitor and sentenced to death. Later, as a gesture of reconciliation, the British reduced his death sentence to seven years of exile. Eventually, the British East India Company opted for a conciliatory approach in the region to maintain peace. They handed over a portion of the traditional Ahom kingdom to the local Ahom ruler Purandar Singh. | |
Tatya Tope | Tatya Tope (16 February 1814 - 18 April 1859) was a prominent military leader of India's first struggle for independence. Inspired by the great rebellion of 1857, Tatya Tope and his comrades led the freedom fighters who fought for the next 90 years and eventually secured independence for the country.
Tatya Tope's real name was Ramachandra Pandurang Tope. He was born in the village of Yeola near Nashik in Maharashtra. His father, Pandurang Rao, served in the service of Bajirao II, the Peshwa of Maratha Empire. Due to his devotion to Bajirao, they started living with him in Bithur near Kanpur in 1818. Under a treaty, the Peshwa received a pension from the British. After the death of Bajirao in 1851, Nana Sahib became the ruler of Bithur. However, the British deprived him of the position of Peshwa and refused to grant him a pension. When the waves of the 1857 rebellion reached Kanpur, the soldiers there declared Nana Sahib as their leader. Nana Sahib approached Tatya Tope as his military advisor. Tatya Tope continuously inflicted blows on the British Army using guerrilla warfare tactics. Seeing the weakened position of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi, he came to her aid and faced numerous dangers. Finally, in April 1859, the British deceitfully captured Tatya Tope, and he attained martyrdom. | |
Rani Lakshmibai | Rani Lakshmibai (19 November 1828 - 18 June 1858) was the queen of the Maratha-ruled princely state of Jhansi. She raised the flag of rebellion in the first struggle for India's independence. The British considered her as one of the most dangerous leaders of the 1857 uprising. Lakshmibai was born in Varanasi. Her childhood name was Manikarnika. But she was affectionately called Manu. Her father, Moropant, served in the service of the Maratha Peshwa Bajirao II. He provided her with education in scriptures as well as in the art of warfare. At the age of seven, Manu learned horse riding, and she soon became skilled in swordsmanship and archery. At the age of 14, Manu was married to Maharaja Gangadhar Rao of Jhansi. With this, she became the queen of Jhansi and was given the name Lakshmibai. Rani Lakshmibai gave birth to a son, but he passed away after three months. Subsequently, Maharaja Gangadhar Rao adopted a child from his family, Damodar Rao. When Maharaja Gangadhar Rao passed away in 1853, Lord Dalhousie, the Governor-General of India, refused to recognize Damodar Rao as the rightful heir and annexed Jhansi under the doctrine of lapse. Rani Lakshmibai protested against this injustice and initiated a struggle against the British. With extraordinary courage, the valiant queen Lakshmibai fought on the battlefield and attained the status of a warrior. "Khoob ladi mardaani woh toh Jhansi wali rani thi..." these lines by poet Subhadra Kumari Chauhan immortalize her bravery and continue to inspire the youth with a sense of patriotism. | |
Birsa Munda | Birsa Munda (15 November 1875 - 9 June 1900) was a brave warrior, freedom fighter, and tribal leader in the Indian independence movement. He was born in the Ulihatu village of present-day Khunti district in Jharkhand state. Birsa's early education took place in the village, as the son of Sugna Munda and Karmai Munda. He completed his further schooling in Chaibasa. Birsa raised awareness among the indigenous people about the exploitation they were facing through the British Empire's occupation of their agricultural lands. To counter the efforts of missionaries trying to convert tribal people to Christianity, he established the 'Birsait' movement. Due to his opposition to the missionaries and the British government, Birsa was arrested in August 1895 and imprisoned. After his release from jail in January 1898, he once again started mobilizing his followers for the struggle. He encouraged indigenous people to understand their cultural roots and foster unity among themselves. Under his leadership, the Munda rebellion, known as the 'Ulglulan,' began in 1899 for land rights and freedom from oppressive policies. Birsa Munda was arrested by the British again and remained in jail until his untimely demise. The tribal people of the Chota Nagpur region consider Birsa as a divine figure and remember him as Dharti Aba (father of the earth). | |
Veer Kunwar Singh | Veer Kunwar Singh (13 November 1777 - 26 April 1858) was a soldier and a great leader of the first Indian independence struggle. He led the command of the rebellion against the British in Bihar in 1857. Known by the name of Babu Kunwar Singh, this skilled general earned a place in folklore for his bravery and victory even at the age of 80.
Veer Kunwar Singh was born into a Zamindar (landlord) family in the village of Jagdishpur in the Bhojpur district of Bihar. On 25 July 1857, Kunwar Singh took command of the soldiers who raised the flag of rebellion in Danapur cantonment. Babu Kunwar Singh, in his guerrilla warfare style, fought as a proven warrior with his brave soldiers for almost a year, traveling through places like Banda, Rewa, Azamgarh, Varanasi, Ballia, Ghazipur, and Gorakhpur, sounding the triumph of the revolution. When Kunwar Singh was crosing the Ganges river on 21 April 1858, he was shot in his right hand by a bullet fired by a British soldier. In response, he cut off his right arm with his famous sword and offered it to the river Ganges as a dedication. Two days later, on 23 April, Babu Kunwar Singh fought his final battle. Despite being severely wounded, he managed to bring down the Union Jack of the British from the Jagdishpur Fort before succumbing to his injuries. Due to the worsening infection of his wounds, he attained martyrdom on 26 April. |
People's movement, cultural and social awakening, Swadeshi movement
[edit]This section is located in the same place as First War of Independence, having no physical boundary separating the two sections. As in the case of the previous section, the description on the plaque for the section is only given in Hindi. The description, however, just like the previous section, is given in both Hindi and English. The description for the section can be roughly translated as follows:
"This period witnessed cultural and social awakening in Indian society. During this time, great thinkers, social reformers and literary instigators like Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Swami Dayanand Saraswati, Swami Vivekananda, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar inspired Indian social awakening. They actively worked to change the caste and varna structure, education and women empowerment. The Jan Andolan was a movement of social and political consciousness, this movement was driven by Indian anti-establishment officials, youth organizations and nationalist leaders, which influenced society and politics and strengthened the demands of Indian nationalism and independence. Sanyasi rebellion was an important event in Indian history, which took place around 18th century. This rebellion took place against the rule of the British Empire during the Indian freedom struggle.
This rebellion was the first attempt of the freedom struggle, which was a symbol of the national sentiment aroused by the Indians against British Imperialism. This rebellion took place against the British Empire during the partition period. This rebellion was the first attempt of the freedom struggle, which was a symbol of the national sentiment aroused by the Indians against British Imperialism. The Sanyasi rebellion was widely seen as the Sanyasi movement in different regions of the country. This rebellion revealed the unity of the Indian people and through this Indians protected their heritage, freedom and self-respect against foreign rule.
Additionally, tribal rebellion refers to various movements and protests among tribal communities in India. These movements took place to raise the demand for recognition of rights, equality, and social justice of tribal communities. These rebellions were the precursor to the Indian freedom struggle. Loknayak Birsa Munda protected his tribal rights against the British government. Swami Vivekananda's thoughts promoted the values of Indian life and culture, the importance of unity and harmony, social and spiritual aspects. His life and teachings still inspire people and his thoughts are still known as a high level activity of thought."
Sculpture | Name | Description as given on the plaque |
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Sanyasi rebellion | After the establishment of the East India Company's power in Bengal, the first major uprising against the power came in the form of the Sanyasi rebellion. In the last decades of the 18th century (1770-1800), Sannyasis (ascetics) in certain parts of British-ruled India launched fierce movements against the English rule. Bankim Chandra's novel "Anandamath" is based on this rebellion.
This rebellion primarily involved three groups. Firstly, it included the farmers of Bengal and Bihar who had been ruined by the company's commercial policies. Secondly, it involved unemployed and famine-stricken former soldiers of the Mughal Empire, who themselves belonged to the families of the farmers. The third group involved in the rebellion consisted of the Sannyasis and Fakirs (Muslim ascetics) of Bengal and Bihar. The Sannyasis and Fakirs were leading this rebellion although the main force included the farmers, artisans, and former soldiers of the Mughal Empire. During their attacks, these warrior ascetics would chant the battle cry of "Vande Mataram" (I bow to thee, mother). Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, a renowned Bengali novelist, composed a complete song based on the victorious chant of the ascetics, "Vande Mataram," in his novel "Anandamath." This song was later recognized as the national song of independent India. Even today, this song fills people with patriotic fervor for their motherland. | |
The Santhal rebellion | The Santhal Rebellion (1855-56) was a widespread movement carried out by the Santhal tribes in the hilly regions of present-day Jharkhand and West Bengal against the British East India Company and the Santhal Zamindari system. It is remembered by local people as the "Paharia Jagada" or the Santhal Hul, and Karl Marx referred to it as the first peasant rebellion in India.
On approximately June 30, 1855, around 6,000 tribal people participated in a public meeting in Bhagni Dihi. Led by four brothers named Siddhu, Kanhu, Chand, and Bhairav, along with their two sisters, Phulo and Jhano, they began attacking British offices, institutions, police stations, post offices, and all such places they saw connected to the oppressors. All government services were suspended in the regions of Bhagalpur and Rajmahal. To suppress the Santhal rebellion, martial law had to be imposed in the affected areas. The British managed to quell the rebellion through the brutal use of ten military detachments. Most of the rebellion leaders were captured and killed. Although the Santhal Rebellion was suppressed, it played a significant role in raising awareness among the tribal communities and preparing the ground for future movements. | |
Raja Ram Mohan Roy | Raja Ram Mohan Roy (May 22, 1772 - September 27, 1833) is known as the pioneer of the Indian Renaissance and the father of modern India. He was the founder of the Brahmo Samaj, the initiator of the Indian vernacular press and a leader of the awakening and social reform movements, as well as the grandfather of the Bengal Renaissance. His social reform movements not only brought brilliance to journalism but also served as a beacon of light for social movements. The contemporary Mughal Emperor Akbar II bestowed upon him the title of "Raja" (king).
Raja Ram Mohan Roy believed that the atonement for sin should be sought through self-purification and repentance, rather than through ostentation and rituals. He believed in social equality for all human beings and strongly opposed the caste system. He believed that until women were liberated from inhuman practices such as illiteracy, child marriage, and the practice of sati (widow burning), Hindu society could not progress. In 1815, Raja Ram Mohan Roy founded the Atmiya Sabha, then in 1821 the Calcutta Unitarian Association, and in 1828, the Brahmo Sabha (which later became the Brahmo Samaj). In 1825, he established the Vedanta College, where both Indian education and western curriculum were taught. Raja Ram Mohan Roy edited and published prestigious newspapers and journals such as the Brahmanical Magazine, Samvad Kamaudi, Mirat-ul-Akhbar, and Bangadoot . Bangadoot was a unique newspaper that used a combination of Bengali, Hindi, and Persian languages. | |
Swami Vivekananda | Swami Vivekananda (12 January 1863 - 4 July 1902) was a great scholar, philosopher, and spiritual guru of Vedanta. In the World Parliament of Religions held in Chicago, USA, in 1893, through his historic speech, he presented India to the world as a country that takes pride in its culture and Sanatana Dharma while respecting all the religions of the world. He established the Ramakrishna Mission in 1897, which has been actively engaged in humanitarian and social service activities worldwide. His childhood name was Narendra Nath Datta. He studied at the prestigious Presidency College in Kolkata. Apart from the Vedas and Hindu scriptures, he had a deep interest in philosophy, history, and social sciences. With a desire to know God, Vivekananda became associated with the Brahmo Samaj. Eventually, he became a disciple of Ramakrishna Paramahansa. Vivekananda made significant contributions to the concept of nationalism in modern India. He is remembered as a patriotic saint, and his birthday, 12 January, is celebrated as National Youth Day. | |
Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar | Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar (September 26, 1820 - July 29, 1891) was a renowned philosopher, educator, social reformer, and author of 19th-century Bengal. He was one of the pillars of the Bengal Renaissance. Due to his profound knowledge of Sanskrit language and philosophy, he was conferred wit the title "Vidyasagar" by Sanskrit College during his student life. Ishwar Chandra is considered the successor of Raja Ram Mohan Roy as a social reformer. He campaigned for widow remarriage and his efforts led to the passage of the Widow Remarriage Act in 1856.
He himself married his only son to a widow. He also opposed child marriage. Ishwar Chandra made efforts for women's education and established several girls' schools. In the field of literature, he was one of the pioneers of Bengali prose. He wrote 52 books in Sanskrit, English, and Bengali. His work in simplifying and modernizing Bengali prose is still remembered. He simplified the Bengali alphabet and made it logical and consistent. | |
Bipin Chandra Pal | Bipin Chandra Pal (7th November 1858 - 20th May 1932) was a great freedom fighter who is considered the father of revolutionary thoughts in India. During the Bengal partition, he was a significant member of the Lal-Bal-Pal trio, which gave a new direction to the freedom struggle with their revolutionary ideas. The other two members of this trio were Lala Lajpat Rai and Bal Gangadhar Tilak.
Bipin Chandra Pal joined the Indian National Congress in 1886 and began popularizing the concept of "Swaraj" (self-rule). He actively participated in the Swadeshi movement and the non-cooperation movement. However, he was a staunch critic of Mahatma Gandhi's nonviolent methods. Bipin Chandra Pal, along with Lala Lajpat Rai and TIlak, advocated for an aggressive form of nationalism, which involved boycotting British goods and stores, burning western clothing, and advocating strikes and boycotts of British factories. Bipin Chandra Pal was also a brilliant orator, writer, and journalist. He edited the newspapers "The Democrat" and "The Independent." He authored several books, including "Indian Nationalism," "Swaraj and the Present Situation," "Nationality and Empire," "The Basis of Social Reform," "The New Spirit and Studies in Hinduism," and "The Soul of India." | |
Maharishi Swami Dayanand Saraswati | Maharishi Swami Dayanand Saraswati (February 12, 1824 - October 30, 1883) was a great thinker, social reformer, and patriot of modern India. He established the renowned social reform organization, Arya Samaj. It was he who first raised the slogan of "Swaraj" (self-rule) in 1876, which was later carried forward by Lokmanya Tilak. His version of an undivided India included a casteless and classless society, and a free India from foreign rule, where Arya Dharma (Vedic religion) would be the common religion for all. He drew inspiration from the Vedas, considering them the "cornerstone of the Indian age" and the "undisputable and true seed of Hinduism". He advocated the slogan "Go back to the Vedas". Satyarth Prakash (the light of Truth) is a major book of the Arya Samaj, authored by Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati.
There are countless great personalities who have been influenced by the ideas of Swami Dayanand, among whom prominent figures include Madam Bhikaji Cama, Shyamji Krishna Varma, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, Lala Hardayal, Madan Lal Dhingra, Ram Prasad Bismil, Mahadev Govind Ranade, and Lala Lajpat Rai. One of Swami Dayanand's chief disciples, Lala Hansraj, established the Dayanand Anglo-Vedic College in Lahore in 1886, and Swami Shraddhanand founded gurukuls in Kangri near Haridwar in 1901. | |
Mahatma Jyotirao Govindrao Phule | Mahatma Jyotirao Govindrao Phule (April 11, 1827 - November 28, 1890 was a great thinker, social reformer, and writer. He is also known by the names Mahatma Phule and Jyotiba Phule. He made invaluable contributions to various fields of social reform, including the eradication of untouchability, caste system, and efforts to educate women and marginalized communities.
Jyotiba and his wife, Savitribai Phule, were pioneers of women's education in India. In 1848, this couple established the first indigenous school for girls in Pune, where they both worked as educators. In 1873, Jyotiba formed the Satyashodhak Samaj (society of seekers of truth) with his followers to fight for equal rights for the so-called lower castes. People from all religions and castes could become members of this organization. Mahatma Gandhi and B.R. Ambedkar incorporated Jyotiba's ideas on social reform into their work. It is believed that Jyotiba Phule was the first to use the term "Dalit" to depict the portrayal of the oppressed class. For his insignificant contribution to women's education, the British Indian government bestowed upon him the title of "the father of women's education" in 1883. Whereas the renowned Marathi social worker, Vithalrao Krishanji Vandekar, first referred to Jyotiba as "Mahatma" in 1888. |
First phase of the revolutionary movement and the non-cooperation movement
[edit]The description of the section is only given in Hindi. However, just like all such sections, the description on the plaques next to the sculptures are given in both Hindi and English. The description given on the plaque of the section can be roughly translated as follows:
"Indians launched various movements and revolutionary programs against the British. This changed the thinking of the people and developed political awareness. Through movements and revolutionary programs, the Indian people united against the British and fought for independence and struggled for their rights. The Swadeshi movement was created to boycott foreign goods and promote Indian products in India. Lala Bal Pal was a prominent leader of the Indian independence movement, who protested against the British government and strengthened the Indian National Movement. Lala Lajpat Rai was one of the prominent revolutionary leaders of Indian independence. And was also a supporter of the Swadeshi movement. He played a key role in the Agrawal rebellion, the Indian children's section against the Simon Commission, and the peaceful protest at Jallianwala Bagh. Bal Gangadhar Tilak founded the Swaraj Party and encouraged the Swadeshi movement through the slogan "Swaraj is my birthright, and I will have it". He also contributed to the support of the Khilafat Movement in rural areas. The three leaders worked together to achieve Indian independence. Due to his efforts, his name is addressed as Lal Bal Pal in the Indian National Movement.
Chapekar Bandhu was an important person who contributed to the Indian freedom movement and was a supporter of the Swadeshi movement. He inspired the people of his village for various Swadeshi campaigns and awakened the national spirit among them. During the freedom struggle, Chapekar Bandhu also participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement and Satyagraha for Indian Independence. Khudiram Bose who dedicated his life in the service of the Indian freedom movement. Veer Savarkar was an Indian freedom fighter, politician, philosopher and litterateur. Savarkar had a great contribution in the Indian movement and is considered a leading soldier of Indian independence against a foreign rule. He supported nationalism, religion, culture, language and society and inspired the Indian people for unity. Rash Bihari Bose founded the Indian Students Union and tried to organize the Indian youth power through it. Mahatma Gandhi adopted the principles of non-violence, Satyagraha and civil disobedience as a supporter of the Indian freedom movement. Mahatma Gandhi is remembered in Indian history as a great leader, ideologist, and peacemaker. His contribution in the creation of independent India will remain unforgettable and his words, principles and messages inspire people even today."
Sculpture | Name | Description as given on the plaque |
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The Chapekar brothers | The three close brothers from Maharashtra, collectively known as the "Chapekar brothers," dedicated their lives to freeing the country from British rule and sacrificed themselves at the feet of Mother India. The eldest among the three was Damodar Hari Chapekar, followed by the younger brothers Balakrishna Hari Chapekar or Bapurao and Vasudev Hari Chapekar. They were greatly inspired by the nationalist Bal Gangadhar Tilak. Motivated by his ideals, they actively participated in patriotic activities and made the ultimate sacrifice of their lives.
Charles Rand, the chairman of the Plague Eradication Committee in Pune, was tormenting the common people instead of reaching out for relief. The Chapekar brothers got angry. Lieutenant Ayert, the security officer of Rand, also showed disrespect towards the sentiments of Indians. The Chapekar brothers decided to teach these officers a lesson. On 22nd June 1897, after the conclusion of Maharani Victoria's diamond jubilee celebrations at the government house in Pune, the Chapekar brothers and their friend Mahadev Vinayak Ranade launched a fierce attack on Rand and Ayerst. Ayerst died immediately, and Rand passed away in the hospital three days later. Damodar was soon arrested and sent to jail, where he was sentenced to death. He was hanged on 18th April 1898. Balakrishna Chapekar, Vasudev Chapekar, and Mahadev Ranade were also captured later. They kissed the gallows in May 1899. | |
Lala Lajpat Rai | Lala Lajpat Rai (28th January 1865 - 17th November 1928) was one of the greatest freedom fighters of India. He was also known as the "Lion of Punjab" and the "Sher-e-Punjab." He was one of the three prominent leaders of the Lal-Bal-Pal trio, known for their radical ideology within the Indian National Congress.
Lala Lajpat Rai became a member of the Arya Samaj at the age of 17 in 1882, and actively engaged in social service. He worked with Swami Dayanand Saraswati to popularize the Arya Samaj and to promote the Dayanand Anglo-Vedic (D.A.V.) schools in Punjab. On 30th October 1928, Lala Lajpat Rai was leading a silent protest march against the Simon Commission in Lahore when he was brutally lathi-charged by police superintendent James Scott and his assistant John Saunders. He was severely injured and succumbed to his injuries a few weeks later. Lala Lajpat Rai's death sparked outrage across the nation, and the nationalist revolutionaries decided to revange of his death. On 17th December 1928, Saunders was shot dead. The case of his murder led to the sentencing of Rajguru, Sukhdev, and Bhagat Singh to the gallows. | |
Bal Gangadhar Tilak | Bal Gangadhar Tilak (23 July 1856 - 1 August 1920) was a great nationalist, social reformer, and leader who influenced multiple generations with his ideas and awakened public consciousness. Tilak, a staunch supporter of Swaraj (self-rule), was a strong pillar of the Lal-Bal-Pal trio, which consisted of passionate freedom fighters with radical ideologies. His famous slogan, "Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it," inspired millions of people during the fight for independence. Tilak was a great scholar and visionary known as "Lokmanya" (beloved leader) by the nation.
Tilak actively participated in the Swadeshi movement and encouraged people to boycott foreign goods. He also published newspapers named "Kesari" in Marathi and "Maratha" in English. In Kesari, he criticized the policies of the British government, which led to his arrest on charges of sedition in 1908. After his release from prison, he joined the Home Rule League led by Annie Besant, which aimed to establish self-rule in India. Tilak had a deep understanding of Hindu scriptures. His written works include "Gita Rahasya" and "The Arctic Home in the Vedas." | |
Khudiram Bose | Khudiram Bose (3 December 1889 - 11 August 1908) was a leading young revolutionary in India who raised the flag of rebellion against British rule. Public speeches by Aurobindo Ghosh and Sister Nivedita inspired him to join the freedom struggle. DUring the partition of Bengal in 1905, He became actively involved in the freedom movement as a volunteer. Khudiram was only 15 years old when he was first arrested on charged of distributing leaflets against the British administration. At that time, Douglas H. Kingsford was the Presidency Magistrate of Calcutta. He was determined to impose harsh punishments on freedom fighters. Khudiram Bose and Prafulla Kumar Chaki were given the responsibility to execute Kingsford.
On 30 April 1908, Khudiram threw a bomb at Kingsford's carriage. Later, it was discovered that on that day, an English barrister's wife and daughter were riding in the carriage and were killed in the attack. Both revolutionaries managed to escape from the scene. To avoid capture later, Prafulla Kumar Chaki shot himself. Khudiram Bose was apprehended. After being sentenced to death, Khudiram Bose was hanged at the young age of 18 years and 8 months. The sacrifices of Bose and his patriotism have become popular folklore in Bengal. Poet Pritambar Das immortalized his sacrifice in the popular Bengali song "Ek Bar Bidaye De Ma." | |
Rasbihari Bose | Whenever the mention of revolutionaries who selflessly sacrificed everything for the country's independence, the name of Rasbihari Bose (25 May 1886 - 21 January 1945) will always be taken with respect. Rasbihari Bose was among those leaders of the freedom struggle who believed that it was only through armed revolution that the British could be driven away.
He not only led revolutionary activities within the country but also actively participated in efforts to achieve independence while travelling abroad. Rasbihari Bose played a significant role in planning the bombing of Lord Charles Hardinge, the Viceroy of Delhi, conspiring in the Gadar Movement, and later, going to Japan to establish the Indian Independence League and the Indian National Army. He never fell into the hands of the British and eventually left India and went to Japan in 1915. Rasbihari Bose also had a crucial role in aligning Japanese officials in support of Indian nationalists and actively advocating for the Indian independence movement. In March 1942, he organized a conference in Tokyo where the Indian Independence League was founded, and a proposal was presented to form the Indian National Army as its military branch. In June 1942, Rasbihari Bose held a second conference of the league in Bangkok, where Subhas Chandra Bose was appointed as the commander of the Indian National Army, which later became famous as the Azad Hind Fauj (Indian National Army). | |
Vinayak Damodar Savarkar | Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (28 May 1883 - 26 February 1966) was a great revolutionary, social reformer, historian, and nationalist thinker of India. He is often remembered as Swatantryaveer or Veer Savarkar. Savarkar was the leader of the Hindu Mahasabha. He is credited with developing the political ideology of Hindu nationalism (Hindutva). From his student days, he began delivering powerful speeches filled with patriotism. In 1904, he founded a revolutionary organization called Abhinav Bharat.
On 10 May 1907, during the golden jubilee celebration of India's first war of independence in London, he presented evidence in his speech to prove that the 1857 rebellion was not just a mutiny but the first struggle for India's independence. Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was arrested in London in connection with the assassination of the collector of Nasik in 1910 and was sent back to India for trial. While en route, he managed to escape from the ship in the port of Marseilles, France. However, he was captured again by the French police. For the next 25 years, he remained a prisoner of the British in various forms and was sent to the Cellular Jail in the Andaman Islands, also known as the "Black Waters," to serve his sentence. After returning from the Cellular Jail, Savarkar wrote a book called "Hindutva: Who is a Hindu?" where he used Hindu nationalism as a political ideology for the first time. | |
Mahatma Gandhi | Mahatma Gandhi (2nd October 1869 - 30 January 1948) was a prominent leader of the Indian Independence Movement. Mahatma Gandhi, popularly known by the name Gandhi Ji, had the full name Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. He transformed the world's thinking with his extraordinary actions and principles of non-violence. Freedom and peace were the sole objectives of his life. Through the means of Satyagraha (nonviolent resistance) and civil disobedience, he successfully led several historic movements in India and South Africa, countering injustice. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born on 2nd October 1869 in Porbandar, Gujarat. His father's name was Karamchand Gandhi, and his mother's name was Putlibai. Putlibai was a very virtuous and religious person, which had a profound impact on Gandhi Ji's personality.
In 1893, Gandhi Ji went to South Africa to work as a legal advisor for a businessman. There, he witnessed racial discrimination against Indians and Africans. Gandhi Ji also experienced firsthand the discrimination faced by Indians in South Africa. In response, he made a resolve to struggle against racial discrimination alongside Indians residing there. During this struggle, he adopted non-violent means to express opposition, which later came to be known as "Satyagraha." After a successful stay in South Africa, Gandhi Ji returned to India. In January 1915, he decided to travel through different regions of the country and listen to the people's voices. After traveling across the country for a year, Gandhi Ji established an ashram on the banks of the Sabarmati River near Ahmedabad, which he named the Satyagraha Ashram. It was from this ashram that he undertook the famous Dandi March in 1930 as part of the Salt Satyagraha. Gandhi Ji initiated his first Satyagraha in Champaran, Bihar, in 1917, where the British officials were exploiting Indian farmers engaged in indigo cultivation. The success of this movement made Gandhi Ji popular throughout India. The Gandhian era in the Indian Independence Movement began with the non-cooperation movement in 1920, led by Gandhi Ji and the Indian National Congress. During the movement, people returned their titles, lawyers gave up their legal practices, and students boycotted schools and colleges. Non-violence and the message of civil disobedience were discussed everywhere. Gandhi Ji also spread the message of nationalism through his two weekly newspapers, "Young India" and "Navajivan". In 1942, Gandhi Ji gave the slogan "Quit India," which symbolized the end of British rule in India. The tireless struggle led under Gandhi Ji's leadership resulted in India's independence on 15th August 1947. However, the partition of India and the subsequent horrific violence deeply affected Gandhi Ji. While the whole country was busy celebrating independence, Gandhi Ji was engaged in efforts to improve the situation of the victims of communal riots in Noakhali. | |
Champaran Satyagraha | The Champaran Satyagraha was an important chapter in the Indian freedom movement, which took place under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi in the Champaran district of Bihar in 1917 & 1918. The movement aimed to defend the rights of farmers and was an example of the newly organized form of the Indian freedom struggle. The primary objective of the Champaran Satyagraha was to fight for the rights of Indian farmers.
The British government had imposed excessive land taxes on the farmers of Champaran and forced them to work in the fields for long hours with little compensation, especially in the search for indigo plantations. Gandhiji extended his support to the rural areas of Bihar during the Champaran Satyagraha and inspired them to fight for their rights. In this Satyagraha, the farmers stood up for their rights against corrupt British officials. They demanded their rights through fasting and non-violent resistance. The Champaran Satyagraha brought the issues of the farmers of Champaran to the attention of the British government and compelled them to address their grievances temporarily through a judicial commission. This movement laid the foundation for a judicial resolution of issues and put forward the demand for justice. The Champaran Satyagraha played a significant role in making the British government pay attention to the issues of the farmers of Champaran and led to a brief resolution of their rights through judicial process. It marked an important phase in the Indian freedom struggle and is considered as a significant chapter in the history of India's struggle for independence. | |
Jalianwala Bagh massacre | The Jallianwala Bagh massacre on April 13, 1919, was the most heinous massacre committed by the British government on the soil of India. On that day, British soldiers indiscriminately fired upon a large gathering of unarmed Indians in Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar, Punjab, resulting in a brutal bloodbath. According to unofficial figures, more than 1,500 people were killed and over 2,000 were injured in the indiscriminate firing. This massacre proved to be a crucial milestone in India's modern history, weakening the India-British relations permanently and strengthening Mahatma Gandhi's commitment to achieving complete independence for India.
The Rowlatt Act was passed on March 10, 1919. This repressive legislation empowered the government to arrest and detain any individual without trial under the pretext of sedition. This led to widespread unrest across the country. As symbols of Hindu-Muslim unity, two nationalist leaders, Dr. Saifuddin Kitchlew and Dr. Satyapal, organized peaceful protests against the Rowlatt Act in Amritsar. On the day of Ram Navami, April 9, 1919, General Dyer ordered the arrest of both leaders. The following day, when the demonstrators took out a procession demanding their release, some incidents of violence occurred against Europeans. On the day of Baisakhi, April 13, 1919, a large number of people gathered in Jallianwala Bagh for a peaceful discussion, disregarding the ban imposed on public gatherings. When this news reached Brigadier General Dyer, he ordered his troops to open fire without any warning. People tried to escape, and some jumped into the only well in the field in an attempt to save their lives. But the sight of the corpses piled up with each passing moment |
Second phase of the revolutionary movement, Dandi March and the Azad Hind Fauj
[edit]Similar to the previous section, the description given on the plaque for the section is only available in Hindi, while the description for the sculptures is given in both Hindi and English. The description of the section can be roughly translated as follows:
"The second phase of the revolutionary movement (1917 to 1947 AD) refers to the second phase of the Indian independence movement. During this period, the struggle and fight for Indian independence continued and the cost of political, social, and economic change increased. The Khilafat Movement was an important movement in which the Muslim community protested against the British government. During this movement, Muslim leaders along with the Indian National Congress demanded independence and tried to make the Indian independence movement more widespread and Gandhi Ji started the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922 AD) during this time, in which Indian people fought against the British government through Satyagraha and non-violence. However, violent incidents increased during the movement, due to which Gandhi Ji put the movement on hold.
Swaraj Party (1923 AD): There was a split in the Indian National Congress and Swaraj Party was formed. It was led by great freedom fighters like Subhas Chandra Bose, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Chakravarti Rajagopalachari.
Boycott of Simon Commission (1928 AD): In this movement, Indian leaders demanded Indian independence against the British government. During the movement, Indian people boycotted foreign goods, services and administrative facilities. This movement gave rise to the demand for Indian independence and finally India got independence in 1947 AD. This phase is important for the Indian freedom movement in which Indian people continuously struggled for their independence."
Sculpture | Name | Description as given on the plaque |
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Kakori Kand | The Kakori train action is one of the significant events of the Indian freedom struggle. It was a historic incident that took place on August 9, 1925, where revolutionaries of the Indian freedom struggle looted the British government's treasury to acquire weapons for their fierce battle against British rule. During the Kakori incident, some revolutionary members of the Indian National Congress were working as officers in the railway. They were trying to organize their revolutionary struggle against the railway factories. In the process, they attempted to loot a train. However, the attempt was unsuccessful, and subsequently, the authorities arrested them for legal action.
Prominent freedom fighters who were arrested in the Kakori case included Rajendra Lal Bajaj, Ashfaqullah Khan, Ram Prasad Bismil, Rajendra Nath Lahiri, and Chandrashekhar Azad. The case involved 43 accused individuals. The verdict was delivered on April 6, 1927. Ram Prasad Bismil, Rajendra Lahiri and Thakur Roshan Singh were sentenced to death. Sachindra Sanyal received a life sentence, while Manmath Nath Gupta was sentenced to 14 years of rigorous imprisonment. Asfaqullah Khan was given the death penalty shortly after. After fourteen others received long sentences, the Kakori incident strengthened the Indian freedom movement and gained popularity. It marked a new phase in the Indian national struggle for independence. | |
Dandi March | The Dandi March or Salt Satyagraha (March-April 1930) was a significant action of the Indian Independence Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi. It is considered as an extremely successful precursor to the civil disobedience movement.
For a long time, the production of and distribution of salt in India was monopolized by the British. Through various laws, Indians were prohibited from making or selling salt independently. As a result, the Indian population had to buy salt at exorbitant prices, often imported. In early 1930, Gandhi launched a public campaign against the unjust salt policy of the British and decided to connect the common people with the nationalist movement. According to the predetermined plan, the Dandi March or Salt March started on March 12, 1930, from Sabarmati Ashram. Along with Gandhi, there were 79 of his supporters accompanying him on this foot journey. They covered a distance 390 kilometers to reach Dandi in 24 days. During the march, Gandhi addressed crowds wherever they took breaks. His speeches created an atmosphere against British oppression. On April 6, at the seashore of Dandi, Gandhi broke the law by picking up a handful of salt. Inspired by this act, common Indians also started disregarding various laws in different places. In response, thousands of nationalist leaders and activists were arrested. Eventually, Gandhi himself was also arrested on charges of breaking British laws. | |
Chandrashekhar Azad | Chandrashekhar Azad (23 July 1906 - 27 February 1931) was a great revolutionary who organized and led daring campaigns against the oppressive British rule during India's struggle for independence.
Chandrashekhar Azad's mother wanted him to become a great Sanskrit scholar, so she sent him to study at the Kashi Vidyapeeth in Varanasi. At the age of just 15, in 1921, he started participating in the non-cooperation movement. In the same context, he was arrested on 20 December. When he appeared in court, he declared his name as "Azad" (meaning "free"), his father's name as "Swatantra" (meaning "Independence"), and his residence as "Jail". This angered the magistrate, who sentenced him to be whipped. After Mahatma Gandhi called off the non-cooperation movement following the violent incident at Chauri Chaura in February 1922, Azad, like many other young nationalist, became disillusioned with the Congress. Therefore, when Ram Prasad Bismil, Sachindranath Sanyal, and Yashpal formed the Hindustan Republican Association in North India in 1924, Chandrashekhar Azad joined them. As a member of the Hindustan Republican Association, Chandrashekhar Azad's first major action was the Kakory train robbery (1925), in which they looted the British treasury. After four prominent revolutionaries associated wit the Kakori incident were hanged and sixteen others were given harsh prison sentences, Azad took upon himself the responsibility of keeping the flame of revolution alive. He brought together leading revolutionaries from North India in Delhi and, with the help of Bhagat Singh, established the "Hindustan Socialist Republican Association." Subsequently, he participated in the Lahore conspiracy case (1928), involving the assassination of British police officer Sanders in retaliation for the death of Lala Lajpat Rai. On 27 February 1931, Chandrashekhar Azad was present at Allahabad's Alfred Park with his fellow revolutionaries when a contingent of British police surrounded them. Azad first ensured the safe escape of his comrades and then engaged in a fierce battle with the British alone. He sustained severe injuries from police bullets. Since he had resolved never to be captured alive, he fired his last bullet at himself and sacrificed his life for the motherland. | |
Bhagat Singh | Bhagat Singh (28 September 1907 - 23 March 1931) is considered one of the most influential revolutionaries of the Indian nationalist movement. Working alongside revolutionary leaders like Chandrashekhar Azad and various revolutionary organizations, he carried out extraordinary acts of bravery against British rule. Bhagat Singh coined the term "Inquilab Zindabad" (Long Live the Revolution), which later became the most popular slogan of India's armed struggle against the British. Bhagat Singh, who kissed the gallows with a smile at the young age of 23 for the sake of the motherland, is referred to as "Shahid-e-Azam" (the crown of martyrs). The Jallianwala Bagh massacre that took place on 13 April 1919 had a profound impact on Bhagat Singh's thinking. He was greatly influenced by the ideas of Kartar Singh Saraba and Lala Lajpat Rai. In 1923, Bhagat Singh enrolled in the National College in Lahore, which was founded as an alternative to government colleges by Lala Lajpat Rai and Bhai Parmanand. Later, Bhagat Singh joined the Hindustan Republican Association established by Sachindranath Sanyal and fellow revolutionaries in Kanpur. He became very close to the association's main organizer, Chandrashekhar Azad. He considered armed revolution as the only effective weapon against British imperialism.
In 1928, Bhagat Singh and fellow revolutionaries conspired to assassinate Police Superintendent James Scott in retaliation for the death of Lala Lajpat Rai. However, in the attack, Assistant Police Superintendent J.P. Saunders was mistakenly killed. The following year, Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt threw bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in opposition to the passage of repressive bills. Instead of fleeing, both revolutionaries decided to surrender themselves so that they could effectively communicate their messages to the public during the trial process. Under various charges, the British government convicted Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru, and they were hanged in Lahore on 23 March 1931. 23 March is observed as Martyrs' Day in memory of these immortal revolutionaries. | |
Subhash Chandra Bose & Azad Hind Fauj | Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose was one of the prominent leaders of the Indian freedom struggle, and his contribution to Indian history is significant. He was a dedicated leader who devoted himself to India's independence and actively participated in the freedom struggle with his organization "Azad Hind Fauj."
Subhash Chandra Bose was born on January 23, 1897, in Cuttack (now Odisha), Uttar Pradesh. His father's name was Janakinath Bose, and his mother's name was Prabhavati Devi. He received his education in Calcutta (now Kolkata) and obtained Master's degree in agriculture, philosophy, and political science. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose made a name for himself as one of the key leaders of the Indian freedom struggle. He worked tirelessly to free India from British rule and garnered support from foreign countries. In 1943, Netaji established the Azad Hind Fauj. It was a freedom army under the Indian National Congress, which struggled against British rule to liberate India. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose led this organization and made it an essential element of the Indian freedom struggle. The primary objective of Azad Hind Fauj was to fight for India's independence. It had both soldiers and officers as its members. The members of this organization showed self-sacrifice and a spirit of selfless service. It operated under the umbrella of the Indian National Congress during the freedom struggle and worked under the leadership of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. The members of Azad Hind Fauj went abroad to foreign countries to fight for Indian independence and sought support from various nations. They remained dedicated to Netaji's vision and were determined to fight for it. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose was a resolute, courageous, and dedicated leader who made the Indian freedom struggle strong and empowered it for the cause of Indian independence. His inspiration, courage, and sacrifice hold a significant place in Indian history. Netaji's death remains a mysterious event. After being seen at the Taipei Airport in Taiwan on August 18, 1945, news of his death emerged. However, the circumstances of his death have not been entirely clarified to this day. | |
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel | Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (31 October 1975 - 15 December 1950) was a great freedom fighter, architect of national integration, and the founding father of modern India. He played a significant role in the fight for independence and as the first Deputy Prime Minister of independent India. He led the task of integrating more than 500 princely states with India. The foundation of the unified and integrated India that the world knows today was laid by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. His determination was unparalleled, and his administrative capabilities were extraordinary, which is why he was known as the "iron man."
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's first and major contribution to the freedom movement came during the Kheda Satyagraha in 1918. The region of Kheda was severely affected by a devastating famine during those days. The farmers demanded relief from the British government in the form of tax exemption. When their demand was not accepted, the farmers, under the leadership of Vallabhbhai Patel, Gandhi, and other leaders, launched a movement. In the end, the government relented and provided relief to the farmers that year. Vallabhbhai Patel again led the farmers' movement in the Bardoli Satyagraha of 1928. At that time, the government had increased the land tax up to 30 percent. Patel spearheaded the farmers' agitation against this decision. After the success of Bardoli Satyagraha, the women of the region conferred the title of "Sardar" upon Vallabhbhai Patel. After the country gained independence, Sardar Patel was appointed the Deputy Prime Minister of India. He also held the responsibility of the Minister of Home Affairs. With the help of his strong determination, he worked towards integrating more than 500 princely states of various sizes into India, laying the foundation of a unified India. Sardar Patel's birth anniversary on 31 October is celebrated as National Unity Day. | |
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar | Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (14 April 1891 - 6 December 1956) was a renowned freedom fighter, eminent scholar, jurist, economist, and popular leader. His full name was Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, and due to the immense respect for him, he is remembered by the name Babasaheb. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution. He became the first Law and Justice Minister of independent India. He is considered one of the key architects of the Indian Constitution and the chief architect of the Indian Republic. He is regarded as a symbol of the struggle for social justice.
In 1912, he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and Political Science from the University of Bombay. The following year, under a scholarship from the Gaekwad rulers, he enrolled for postgraduate studies in the United States at Columbia University. From there, he went to London to pursue higher education in Law and Economics. During his travels in America and Britain, he studied various subjects and completed his research for a Ph.D. After India gained independence, Ambedkar became the Law Minister of the Indian government in 1947. As the Chairman of the Drafting Committee, he played a pivotal role in the formation of the Indian Constitution and became immortalized for his contributions. | |
Jawaharlal Nehru | Jawaharlal Nehru was India's first Prime Minister and a prominent statesman who played a crucial role in shaping modern India. He served as the Prime Minister from 1947, when India gained independence from British rule, until 1964. Nehru's leadership had a significant impact on India as a national leader and politician, greatly influencing the nation. Nehru is often hailed as the architect of modern India. During his tenure as Prime Minister, he implemented various policies and initiatives to promote social justice, economic development, and democratic governance. Nehru believed in the principles of secularism and socialist India, and he laid the foundation for a democratic government. His role in the drafting of the Indian Constitution was crucial. He played a significant role in shaping the principles and provisions of the constitution. Nehru advocated for fundamental rights, social justice, and the rights of minorities, which are enshrined in the Indian Constitution.
Nehru also focused on industrialization and economic development. He implemented planned economic development policies known as the "Five-Year Plans," which aimed at self-reliance and reducing poverty. His government established various industries, such as steel plants, dams, and scientific research institutions, which laid the foundation for India's industrial development. In addition, Nehru played an important role in India's foreign policy. He advocated for non-alignment and worked to safeguard India's independence and minimum impariality within the United Nations. Nehru's policy of non-alignment, which refrained from aligning with any major power bloc, influenced international relations and policies that have no contact with any major power block. Nehru's leadership and vision established India as a democratic and secular nation. However, during his tenure, India also faced challenges such as the partition of India and Pakistan, the integration of princely states, and conflicts with neighboring countries like China and Pakistan. Overall, Nehru's contribution as India's first Prime Minister and statesman was highly significant. His belief in democratic values, secularism, and social justice, along with his efforts to promote economic development and pursue an independence foreign policy, continue to shape India's identity as a nation to this day. | |
State integration | After India's independence, the process of integrating various states and princely states in India has been a significant historical process. The main objective of this process was to unify the different parts of the country into a prosperous nation.
Following India's independence and the partition in 1947, the country underwent tremendous social and cultural changes. As a result, various states and provinces were established, divided upon language, culture, religion and history. The process of state integration took place from 1947 to 1950. During this time, several states and princely states were merged into others, which became integrated into other states. Through this process, India's executive, legislative, and judicial systems were determined and as a result of Indian struggles and negotiations, states were brought under a uniform constitutional and judicial system. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first Home Minister of independent India, is often referred to as the "Iron Man of Integration." After India's independence, the country was divided and the campaign for the integration of Indian states began. Sardar Patel worked in collaboration with Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru for the integration of various states and princely states. Sardar Patel made remarkable efforts towards the integration of India by establishing a national unity. He was a prominent advocate of the Indian Union and convinced rulers and leaders of different states and provinces to join the Union. His leadership and support paved the way for these states to be integrated. Sardar Patel played a crucial role in integrating various states and provinces like Kashmir, Junagadh, Hyderabad, Patiala, and East Punjab. He negotiated various agreements for the operation of the Union, enabling the integration of these states. Sardar Patel ensured the unity and integrity of the Indian Union. His efforts aimed to provide all citizens of the states with an equal experience as citizens of the nation, strengthening the unity and Indian sentiment of the nation. Sardar Patel's endeavors contributed significantly to the integration of India and brought together the diverse parts of the country into an organized, united, and prosperous nation. | |
Drafting Committee of Constitution | The Constitution of India is the greatest document of Indian democracy. The Constitution Assembly of India established the Drafting Committee on 29 August 1947 through a proposal. The committee was responsible for examining the draft of the Constitution prepared by constitutional advisors, making necessary amendments, and presenting the modified version to the Constituent Assembly.
The Drafting Committee consisted of seven members: Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar, N. Gopalaswami, B.R. Ambedkar, K.M. Munshi, Mohammed Saadulla, B.L. Mitter and D.P. Khaitan. In its first meeting on 30 August 1947, the Drafting Committee began the process of examining the draft prepared by the constitutional advisor B.N. Rau. Several changes were made, and on 21 February 1948, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the Prsident of the Constituent Assembly, was handed the first draft of the Constitution. Many amendments and modifications were made thereafter. Finally, on 26 November 1949, the Constituent Assembly passed the amended version of the Constitution. Our Constitution came into effect on 26 January 1950. While 26 November is observed as Constitution Day in India, 26 January is celebrated as Republic Day. The Constitution of India is the world's longest written constitution. According to the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, India is a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic. |
Children, women and poets played important roles in Indian history
[edit]Similar to the previous section, the description given on the plaque for the section is only available in Hindi, while the description for the sculptures is given in both Hindi and English. The description of the section can be roughly translated as follows:
"There are many girls, women and poets in Indian history who have made an important place in society, culture and art through their courage and contribution.
There are many girls, women and poets in Indian history who have played an important role which is memorable and praiseworthy for India.
Leaders like Jhalkari Bai, Durga Bhabhi, Matangini Hazara, Bhikaji Cama and poets like Rabindranath Tagore, Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, Hasrat Mohani, Pingali Venkayya, Subramaniam Bharati, Makhanlal Chaturvedi, Shyamlal Gupta, Jyotiprasad Agarwa and Ramdhari Singh Dinkar who have played an important role in the independence of India through their dedication, courage, and literary contribution.
By honoring them we can remember their literary contribution and patriotism".
Sculpture | Name | Description as given on the plaque |
---|---|---|
Kuyili | Kuyili was a military commander under Queen Velu Nachiyar of the Sivaganga estate. She participated in campaigns against the East India Company in the 18th century. She is considered the first female martyr and female suicide bomber in Indian history.
Kuyili was born in the 18th century near Kudanchavadi in Sivaganga district. Her mother was also known for her bravery and was said to have sacrificed her life while fighting a wild bull to save her fields from destruction. Kuyili herself was a dedicated military commander under Velu Nachiyar several times. On one occasion, when she learned that her Silambam teacher was actually a spy, she took immediate action to save the queen. On another occasion, when an attack was launched on the queen during her sleep, Kuyili retaliated and got injured in the process. Her loyalty and bravery earned her the position of the commander-in-chief of the women's wing of Queen Nachiyar's army. Kuyili later played a crucial role in the Sivaganga campaign led by the queen. | |
Jhalkari Bai | Jhalkari Bai, whose real name was Lakshmibai, was a renowned queen in Indian history. She belonged to the royal family of Jhansi, in the Maratha Empire's Maharashtra region. Jhalkari Bai earned fame during the 1857 Indian rebellion for her bravery and courage. She is best known for an incident in which she disguised herself as Bajrangbali and appeared before the British Army during the rebellion. Due to her similarities with Rani Lakshmibai, she is also known as "Veeraangana Jhalkari Bai."
During the Indian freedom struggle in 1857, Jhalkari Bai assisted Rani Lakshmibai and actively participated in her indigenous army. She took on Rani's appearance and tried to protect her. For this courageous act, she was credited as Bajrangbali. Jhalkari Bai played a significant role as a woman warrior in Indian history and is remembered as a brave and determined female figure. Her courageous deeds earned her respect, and she made a significant contribution during the Indian freedom struggle. Jhalkari Bai's bravery, determination, and loyalty have earned her a prominent place in Indian history. Her example of courage and valor continues to inspire people today. Her resolute spirit and valor added strength to the Indian freedom struggle. Honoring her reminds us of her support and inspiration, showing us that even small steps of bravery can make a significant impact on the history. | |
Bhikaji Cama | Madam Bhikaji Rustom Cama was an Indian freedom fighter and social worker. She played a crucial role in the Indian freedom struggle and worked for the empowerment of women. She is well-known for hoisting the first tricolour flag of India on August 22, 1907, during the 7th International Socialist Congress in Stuttgart, Germany. At that time, the Indian flag was different from its current design. Cama co-founded the Paris Indian Society, while she was exiled for her nationalist activities. She wrote, published and distributed revolutionary literature for the movement, including a publication called 'Bande Mataram', while in Paris.
Bhikaji was born in Bombay to a well-known Parsi family. Her father's name was Sorabji Framji Patel. She received her education in London and returned to India with her father. She established the "Arya Mahila Samaj" in Mumbai, which focused on the education, health, and self-reliance of women. During the freedom struggle, Bhikaji Rustom Cama played an important role. She led movements against foreign companies and demanded rights for the people. She worked with Gandhi Ji and even contributed to the Satyagraha movement. Her significant contributions to India's struggle for freedom earned her the title "Veerangana" (meaning 'brave woman'). Madam Cama's services and sacrifices are highly respected and her name is held in high esteem for her efforts towards Indian independence. | |
Matangini Hazra | Matangini Hazra (October 19, 1870) was a revolutionary in India and was known as 'Gandhi Budi' (old lady Gandhi). She was born in a very poor family in the Hugli district of East Bengal (present-day Bangladesh) in the village of Hogla. Due to her constant involvement in the joys and sorrows of the villagers, she became revered like a mother by the entire village.
In 1932, under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, the freedom movement was spreading throughout the country. Processions were held daily, chanting Vande Mataram. When such a procession passed by Matangini's house, she welcomed it with the sound of a conch shell, as per Bengali tradition, and joined the procession. In Tamaluk, a meeting was organised where Matangini took an oath with everyone to struggle for independence with all her strength and resources. On January 17, 1933, the governor of Bengal, Anderson, arrived in Tamaluk to suppress the 'carbonandolan.' In protest, a demonstration was organized. Brave Matangini Hazra was leading with a black flag in hand. She marched towards the darbar (court) chanting against British rule. The police arrested her and sentenced her to six months of rigorous imprisonment in Murshidabad Jail. In 1935, Tamaluk was struck by a severe famine, affecting haizah and chechak, Matangini got involved in relief work without worrying about her life. In 1942, when the 'Quit India Movement' gained momentum, Matangini jumped into it. On September 8, during a demonstration in Tamaluk, three freedom fighters were killed by police bullets. In protest, people decided to hold a bigger rally on September 29. Matangini rallied through villages, mobilizing 5,000 people for the demonstration. They reached the government dak bungalow (guest house) in the afternoon. The police aimed their guns. Matangini stood on a platform, raising slogans. A bullet hit her left hand, but she held the tricolor in her right hand before it fell. Then another bullet hit her right hand, and a third hit her forehead. Matangini's lifeless body collapsed right there. Her sacrifice sparked so much enthusiasm in the entire region that within ten days, people had overthrown the British and established a provisional government, which operated for 21 months. | |
Rani Gaidinliu | Rani Gaidinliu or Rani Gidalu (1915-1993) was a Naga spiritual and political leader in India who led a rebellion against British rule. She had a strong sense of independence and self-respect from her childhood. At the age of 13, she came into contact with the Naga leader Jadonang, who was actively involved in driving the British out of Manipur. Before her movement could gain significant momentum, the British arrested her and hanged her on August 29, 1931.
Rani Gaidinliu led a revolutionary movement in Nagaland for India's independence. She is often referred to as the "Rani Lakshmibai of Nagaland" for her courageous actions akin to Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi. In recognition of her contributions, the Government of India honored her with the Padma Bhushan in 1982. | |
Durga Bhabhi | Durga Bhabhi was born on October 7, 1907, in Shahzadpur village, now in Kaushambi district, to Pandi Banke Bihari. Her father was a clerk in Allahabad collectorate, and her grandfather served as a police officer in Jalaun district. At the age of ten, she got married to Bhagwati Charan Vohra in Lahore. Although her father-in-law, Shiv Charan Vohra, held a high position in the railways, both Bhagwati Charan Vohra and Durga Bhabhi wanted to liberate the country from British rule. They were actively involved in revolutionary activities.
In March 1926, Bhagwati Charan Vohra and Bhagat Singh jointly prepared the blueprint of the Naujawan Bharat Sabha and established it along with Ramchandra Kapoor. Hundreds of young revolutionaries took an oath to sacrifice their lives for the freedom of the country. Despite Bhagwati Charan's martyrdom during a bomb-making experiment on the banks of the river Ravi on May 28, 1930, Durga Bhabhi remained active with other revolutionaries. On October 9, 1930, Durga Bhabhi shot Governor Hailey, injuring him but failing to kill him. She also attempted to shoot the Mumbai Police commissioner, and as a result, the British police started chasing her. Durga Bhabi and her companion Yashpal were eventually arrested from a flat in Mumbai. The pistol with which Chandrashekhar Azad shot himself while fighting the British, was given to him by Durga Bhabhi. She had received training in shooting in Lahore and Kanpur. When Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt planned to throw bombs in the Central Assembly, Durga Bhabhi and Sushila Mohan cut their arms, used their blood for 'tilak', and bid them farewell. After India gained independence, unlike other freedom fighters, Durga Bhabhi chose to live in peaceful anonymity in Ghaziabad as an ordinary citizen. Later, she opened a school for underprivileged children in Lucknow. Durga Bhabhi passed away on October 15 1999, in Ghaziabad at the age of 92. | |
Tara Rani Srivastava | Tara Rani Srivastava was an Indian freedom fighter and a participant in Mahatma Gandhi's Quit India Movement. On August 12, 1942, in response to Mahatma Gandhi's call, she and her husband organized a march to hoist the Indian flag in front of the Sevagram police station, an act that was seen as a significant act of disobedience.
The police resorted to baton charging the protesters to prevent them from hoisting the flag. When their attempts to control the situation failed, the police opened fire, resulting in injuries, including Tara Rani's husband, Fulendu Babu. Despite the danger, Tara Rani used torn pieces of her saree to bandage her husband's wounds and continued her march to the police station where she attempted to hoist the flag. Upon her return, she learned that her husband had died. She remained a part of the freedom struggle until August 15, 1947, when India gained independence. | |
Bina Das | She was the daughter of renowned Brahmo Samaj teacher Benimadhavdas and social worker Sarla Devi. She was a student at St. John's D' Souza Girls Higher Secondary School. Bina Das was a member of the revolutionary organization Chhatri Sangh, run by women in Kolkata. For this, she was sentenced to rigorous imprisonment for nine years.
On February 6, 1932, the convocation ceremony was being held at Calcutta University. Sir Stanley Jackson, the Governor of Bengal, was the chief guest. On this occasion, Kumari Bina Das, who had gone to receive her degree, fired a shot at the Governor. The bullet missed and grazed the Governor's ear, and he fell to the floor. In the meantime, Lieutenant Colonel Suhrawardy rushed and grabbed Bina Das by her neck with one hand and held her pistol-wielding hand towards the Senate Hall's roof. Still, Bina Das kept firing shots, but all five bullets missed. She threw the pistol away. In court, Bina Das gave a daring statement, but it could not be published due to a censorship imposed on newspapers. She was sentenced to ten years of imprisonment. After being released in 1939, Das joined the Indian National Congress. In 1942, she participated in the Quit India Movement and was imprisoned again from 1942 to 1945. From 1946 to 1947, she was a member of the Bengal Provincial Assembly, and from 1947 to 1951, she was a member fo the West Bengal Legislative Assembly. In 1947, she married Jatish Chandra Bhaumik, a freedom fighter from the Yugantar Group. After her husband's death, she began living a secluded life in Rishikesh until she passed away in anonymity. | |
Kanaklata Barua | Kanaklata Barua was born on December 22, 1924 in the village of Borangabari in the undivided Darrang district of Assam. Unfortunately, she met her demise on September 20, 1942. Her parents were Karneshwari and Krishna Kanta Barua. Her grandfather, Ghanta Kanta Baruah, was a renowned hunter in Darrang. Her ancestors were associated with the Dolakasharia Barua family, the former Chutia Jagirdars of the Ahom Kingdom, who abandoned the Dolakasharia title and retained the Barua title.
During the Quit India movement, Barua joined the Mrityu Bahini, a death squad comprising group of youth from the Gohpur sub-division in Assam. On September 20, 1942, the squad decided to hoist the national flag at a local police station. Barua led a procession of unarmed villagers to accomplish this. However, the police, under the leadership of sub-inspector Rebati Mahan Som, warned them of serious consequences if they proceeded. Despite the warning, the procession continued to advance, and the police resorted to firing. Barua was shot, and the flag she was carrying was taken by Mukund Kakoti, who was also shot. Both Barua and Kakoti succumbed to their injuries. At the time of her death, Barua was only 17 years old. In 1997, the Indian Coast Guard named the fast patrol vessel ICGS Kanaklata Barua in her honour. | |
Adi Shankaracharya | Shankaracharya was born in the village of Kalpi or 'Kashal' in Kerala around 507-508 BCE.[b] His father's name was Shivguru, and his mother's name was Ayamba. After worshipping Lord Shiva for a long time, Shivguru was blessed with a son, and he named him Shankar. When Shankar was just three years old, his father passed away. Despite his young age, he displayed great intellect and brilliance. At the age of six, he became a profound scholar, and at eight, he took sannyasa (renunciation).
The story of his renunciation is quite peculiar. It is said that his mother was hesitant to grant him permission to become a sannyasi. One day, while standing near a river, a crocodile caught Shankaracharyaji's foot. Taking advantage of the situation, he told his mother, "If you don't permit me to take sannyasa, this crocodile will devour me." Fearful of her son's life, his mother immediately gave her consent, and astonishingly, as soon as she did so, the crocodile released his foot. Shankaracharya then took sannyasa from Govind Nath. Initially, he stayed in Kashi for a few days and then defeated Mandan Mishra in a philosophical debate at the banks of the river Vishalbindu. He traveled across the entire Indian subcontinent, proving the falsehood of Buddhism and reviving the Vedic religion. Some Buddhists consider him their adversary because he defeated them in several debates and reestablished the Vedic faith. At the young age of 32, in 477 BCE, he attained Samadhi near Kedarnath. | |
Shivaji and Jijabai | ||
Chandrashekhar Azad | ||
Bhagat Singh | ||
A.P.J. Abdul Kalam | ||
Shahadat Divas | ||
Shyamlal Gupta | ||
Ramdhari Singh 'Dinkar' | ||
Makhanlal Chaturvedi | ||
Pingali Venkayya | ||
Hasrat Mohani | ||
Jyotiprasad Agarwal | ||
Subramanyam Bharti | ||
Bankim Chandra | ||
Rabindranath Tagore |
References
[edit]- ^ Sharma, Sheenu; News, India TV (2023-08-10). "Shaheedi Park, India's first outdoor museum, opens in Delhi: Know ticket prices and how to reach there". www.indiatvnews.com. Retrieved 2024-10-01.
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has generic name (help) - ^ "15 अगस्त के दिन दिल्ली के इस पार्क में अवश्य जाइये, दिल बोलेगा- जय हिंद..." www.haribhoomi.com (in Hindi). 2024-07-28. Retrieved 2024-10-01.
- ^ "इस पार्क में टूरिस्ट देख सकते हैं कबाड़ से बनी मूर्तियां, 4.5 एकड़ में है फैला, एंट्री फीस 100 रुपये". www.india.com (in Hindi). Retrieved 2024-10-01.
- ^ "Delhi LG Saxena, CM Kejriwal inaugurate Shaheedi Park, India's first outdoor Waste to Art museum". ANI News. Retrieved 2024-10-01.
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