PERSONALITY IN NEWS :  BHAGAT  SINGH

Birth and Childhood

  • Born: September 28, 1907, in Banga, Punjab (now in Pakistan).
  • Family: Deeply involved in the freedom struggle, influenced by the Ghadar Movement and Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

Involvement in Freedom Struggle

  • Joined HSRA: Hindustan Socialist Republican Association to fight British rule.
  • Simon Commission Protest (1928): Protested against the Commission; Lala Lajpat Rai was killed during the protest.
  • Assembly Bombing (1929): Threw non-lethal bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly to protest repressive laws.
  • Lahore Conspiracy Case: Arrested for killing J.P. Saunders to avenge Lala Lajpat Rai's death.
  • Hunger Strike: Fought for better treatment and rights for political prisoners in jail.

Martyrdom

  • Executed: On March 23, 1931, along with Rajguru and Sukhdev.
  • Impact: Their sacrifice inspired a stronger push for India’s independence.

Ideology and Legacy

  • Socialist and Secular: Believed in equal wealth distribution and harmony among religions.
  • Committed to Non-Violence: Personally committed to non-violence, despite violent protests.
  • Icon of Sacrifice: His slogan "Inquilab Zindabad" still resonates today.
  • Role Model: Continues to inspire youth to bring change to society.
  • Cultural Impact: His life has been depicted in books, films, and documentaries.

Notable Writings

  • Why I Am an Atheist: Explained his atheistic beliefs and rejection of religious dogma.
  • To Young Political Workers: Encouraged discipline and dedication in the freedom struggle.
  • Jail Notebook: Reflections, quotes, and thoughts during imprisonment.
  • Other Writings: Letters from jail expressing love for his country and the freedom movement.

Legacy in Literature

  • Influence: Inspired many literary works, books, poems, and plays.