Chandra Shekhar Azad
Source: PIB
GS I: The Freedom Struggle — important contributors from different parts of the country.
Overview
- News in Brief
- Chandra Shekhar Azad- His Legacy
- Revolutionary Contributions
- Martyrdom
Why in the News?
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi paid homage to Chandra Shekhar Azad on his birth anniversary.
News in Brief
- The Prime Minister highlighted Azad’s fearless courage and unwavering patriotism.
- He noted his role in inspiring youth to join the freedom movement.
- The occasion recalls the contribution of revolutionary nationalists in India’s struggle for independence.
Chandra Shekhar Azad – His Legacy
- Chandrashekhar Azad (born Chandra Shekhar Tiwari, July 23, 1906 – February 27, 1931) was one of the most prominent revolutionary freedom fighters.
- Adopted the name “Azad” after declaring himself free during the Non-Cooperation Movement.
- His life remains a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and commitment to national freedom.
- He vowed never to be captured alive and martyred himself in Allahabad during a police encounter.
- Inspired generations through his determination to never surrender.
Revolutionary Contributions
- He participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920–21 and was arrested at just 15 years old.
- Following the suspension of the Non-Cooperation Movement, Azad turned to armed revolution to secure India’s independence.
- He became the chief strategist and a prominent leader of the HSRA, working closely with other revolutionaries like
- Bhagat Singh
- Sukhdev Thapar
- Shivaram Rajguru
- He successfully masterminded and evaded capture in major anti-British actions, including the 1925 Kakori Conspiracy.
Kakori Conspiracy
- Also known as the Kakori Train Action, took place on 9 August 1925 near Kakori, close to Lucknow in present-day Uttar Pradesh.
- It was carried out by members of the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA).
- The revolutionaries seized government treasury money being transported by train to fund revolutionary activities against British rule.
- Key Revolutionaries
- Ram Prasad Bismil
- Ashfaqulla Khan
- Rajendra Nath Lahiri
- Roshan Singh
- Chandra Shekhar Azad (escaped arrest)
- Sachindra Nath Sanyal (founder of HRA)
Martyrdom
- On February 27, 1931, Azad was surrounded by British police at Alfred Park in Allahabad (now Prayagraj) after being betrayed by an informant.
- Refusing to surrender, he engaged in a fierce gunfight and famously chanted his motto, “We will face the enemy’s bullets; we have lived free and will remain free”.
- He ultimately used his last bullet to take his own life, fulfilling his vow.
Conclusion
As India advances towards becoming a developed nation, remembering Chandra Shekhar Azad is not merely a tribute to a national hero but a reaffirmation of the values of courage, responsibility, resilience, and selfless service.
His enduring legacy continues to inspire responsible citizenship and strengthen national unity.
Key Takeaways
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UPSC Prelims and Mains Practice Questions
With reference to Chandra Shekhar Azad, consider the following statements:
- He was associated with the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA).
- He was involved in the Kakori Conspiracy of 1925.
- He played an important role in reorganising the revolutionary movement after the Kakori Conspiracy Case.
Select the correct answer:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1 and 3 only
Answer: (b)
Mains Practice Question
Q. “Discuss the role of revolutionary leaders in India’s freedom struggle. How do their ideals continue to inspire contemporary India?” (150 Words)
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