Bhagat Singh was a prominent freedom fighter who was born on September 27, 1907 and he died on March 23, 1931. His death anniversary is observed to honour the sacrifice of one of India’s most influential freedom fighters. He was executed by the British on March 23, 1931, along with Rajguru and Sukhdev, for their involvement in the freedom struggle. His martyrdom continues to inspire generations.
Why is Martyrs’ Day observed on March 23?
Martyrs’ Day on March 23 is dedicated to the memory of these young revolutionaries who fearlessly fought against British colonial rule. They were sentenced to death in connection with the Lahore Conspiracy Case for the assassination of British police officer John Saunders, a retaliation for the brutal police assault on Lala Lajpat Rai.
Despite global protests and appeals for clemency, the British government executed them a day earlier than scheduled, fearing massive unrest. They were hanged on March 23, 1931, and their bodies were secretly cremated near the Sutlej River to avoid public outrage.
History of Bhagat Singh
Bhagat Singh was born on September 28, 1907, in Banga, Punjab (now in Pakistan). He was deeply influenced by the Jallianwala Bagh massacre (1919) and the non-cooperation movement (1920-22) led by Mahatma Gandhi. However, after witnessing the violence and brutality of British rule, he adopted revolutionary means to fight for India’s independence. He was associated with the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) and believed in radical measures to overthrow British rule. Some of his notable acts include:
Lala Lajpat Rai’s revenge (1928): Bhagat Singh, along with Shivaram Rajguru and Chandrashekhar Azad, plotted to assassinate British officer James A. Scott, who was responsible for the lathi charge that led to Lala Lajpat Rai’s death. However, they mistakenly killed John Saunders instead.
Assembly Bombing (1929): Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt threw non-lethal bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi to protest against repressive laws. They surrendered voluntarily and used the trial as a platform to spread their revolutionary ideas.
Significance of Bhagat Singh’s Martyrdom
Symbol of Resistance: He inspired the youth of India to fight against British rule.
Ideological Legacy: His ideas on socialism and revolution continue to be studied and followed.
Nationalism and Patriotism: His famous slogan “Inquilab Zindabad” (Long Live the Revolution) became a rallying cry for independence.
Inspiration for Future Movements: His writings and thoughts influenced several post-independence movements in India.
Commemoration
March 23 is observed as Shaheed Diwas (Martyrs’ Day) in honour of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev.
Various programs, rallies, and seminars are held across India to remember his contributions.
Statues and memorials of Bhagat Singh continue to stand as a testament to his bravery.
Bhagat Singh’s life and sacrifice remain an enduring symbol of courage, patriotism, and revolutionary zeal in India’s history. His dream of an independent, socialist India still resonates today. Inquilab Zindabad!
