Table of Contents

Tribute to Bravehearts of Martyrs of March 17th

Introduction to the Epochs of Bravery and Sacrifice

The struggle for India’s independence from British colonial rule spanned over a century, encapsulating various periods marked by distinct forms of resistance, uprisings, and revolutionary movements. Each epoch, with its unique characteristics and challenges, contributed significantly to the freedom struggle, ultimately culminating in India’s independence in 1947. This narrative begins with the uprising of 1857, moves through the establishment and battles of the Indian National Army (INA) during World War II, and highlights the relentless efforts of individuals during the Quit India Movement and other significant protests. Understanding the context of these periods sheds light on the sacrifices made by countless Indian martyrs.

The Uprising of 1857: The First War of Independence

Often hailed as the First War of Independence, the uprising of 1857 was a major but ultimately unsuccessful rebellion against the British East India Company’s rule. It marked the first large-scale and concerted effort to rid India of colonial rule, uniting soldiers, civilians, and nobility across various regions. The rebellion was characterized by fierce battles, sieges, and acts of valour in different parts of India, with Delhi becoming a significant battleground. The brutal suppression of the uprising by British forces led to widespread martyrdom and suffering, but it also planted the seeds of resistance that would grow over the following decades.

The Indian National Army and World War II

The formation of the Indian National Army (INA) by Subhas Chandra Bose during World War II represented a significant chapter in India’s freedom struggle. Disillusioned with the pace and strategies of the mainstream independence movement led by the Indian National Congress, Bose sought to leverage the global conflict to India’s advantage. The INA allied with Axis powers to fight against the British Army, mainly in Southeast Asia and the Burma front. Despite facing formidable challenges, including harsh terrain and limited resources, the INA became a symbol of courage and a rallying point for Indian nationalism, although its military campaigns ultimately did not succeed in their primary objectives.

The Quit India Movement and Beyond

The Quit India Movement, launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1942, called for an end to British rule in India. This period was marked by mass protests, strikes, and acts of civil disobedience across the country. The British response was swift and severe, with thousands arrested, including key leaders of the Indian National Congress, and a clampdown on civil liberties. Despite the leadership vacuum, grassroots resistance continued, showcasing the depth of the desire for freedom among the Indian populace. Parallel to this were other significant protests and acts of rebellion, such as the Royal Indian Navy ratings’ rebellion in 1946, which demonstrated the widespread unrest and contributed to the British decision to leave India.

The Legacy of March 16th

Within these broader narratives, March 17th emerges as a day of particular significance, witnessing acts of supreme sacrifice across these varied phases of the freedom struggle. From the gallant efforts of individuals in the face of the 1857 Uprising’s despair, through the determined resistance of the INA against overwhelming odds, to the defiant protests and movements against British rule leading up to independence, the sacrifices on this day are emblematic of the enduring spirit of the Indian freedom struggle. Each martyr’s story is a testament to their unwavering commitment to India’s freedom, their actions forever enshrined in the nation’s collective memory.

The struggle for India’s independence was marked by numerous acts of bravery, sacrifice, and martyrdom. On March 17th, across different years, several freedom fighters made the ultimate sacrifice for their motherland. Their stories of valor and determination continue to inspire generations. This essay pays homage to those Indian martyrs who laid down their lives on this day, fighting against colonial rule.

The 1857 Uprising: Delhi’s Indian Martyrs

Azim Allee, a resident of Delhi, participated in the 1857 Uprising, engaging in combat against the British army within Delhi’s walls. Captured and charged with rebellion, Allee was executed on March 17, 1858.
Ellahee Bux and Fyzoola also from Delhi, took part in the defense of the city during the 1857 Uprising. After the British reoccupation, they were captured, convicted of rebellion, and hanged on the same day.
Shaiz Khan, another participant in the uprising from Delhi, faced a similar fate after being caught and convicted by the British. His life ended on the gallows on March 17, 1858.

The Indian National Army’s Martyrs in 1945

Abdul Ghani, from Sialkot, and several other valiant souls like Badan, Basu Ram, Bharat Swain, Bhim Sain, Gian Singh, Hanuman Prasad, Kopial, Ram Jashan, Ram Singh, S. Sunder Raju, Sanathan, Udham Singh, Gian Singh Bisht, and E. Ramu switched allegiances from the British-Indian Army to join the Indian National Army (INA) in 1942. They fought against British forces on the Burma front, displaying unmatched courage. Tragically, they all fell in battle on March 17, 1945.

The Quit India Movement and Beyond

Nuna Murmu participated in the Quit India Movement and the Lathi-Pahar agitation. Arrested for his activities, he died in Dumka Jail on March 17, 1944, due to harsh imprisonment conditions.
Raghoo Govind, a young revolutionary from Bombay, succumbed to injuries from police firing during the Royal Indian Navy ratings’ rebellion, dying on March 17, 1946.
Bishambar Dayal and Tarkeshwar Dastidar were involved in different acts against the British rule, leading to their arrests and eventual martyrdom. Dayal died as an under-trial prisoner, and Dastidar was executed after a series of revolutionary activities.
Raghunath Rondhari died due to adverse conditions in prison following his arrest during the Quit India Movement, illustrating the suffering endured by political prisoners.

Conclusion

The sacrifices of these Indian martyrs on March 17th, from the 1857 Uprising to the struggles of the Indian National Army and the Quit India Movement, reflect a wide spectrum of resistance against British colonial rule. Their undying spirit and ultimate sacrifice highlight the diverse and unified efforts of Indians across different regions and periods in the quest for freedom. These heroes, though from different backgrounds and fighting in different capacities, shared a common goal – the liberation of India. Their legacy is a testament to the enduring fight for freedom and justice, serving as an everlasting source of inspiration for future generations.

Feature Image: The image is a vivid tableau of India’s fight for freedom, blending elements from various eras of resistance. In the foreground, soldiers from the 1857 Uprising clash with British forces. The central figure, perhaps a leader, holds the Indian flag high atop a rocky outcrop, flanked by supporters. In the background, the Indian National Army (INA) of World War II is represented by uniformed soldiers with period-specific vehicles and armaments. The scene is charged with the intensity of battle and the fervent hope for independence, unified by the fluttering tricolor, symbolizing the continuity of struggle across the decades. (https://hinduinfopedia.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/DALL·E-2024-03-17-08.31.36_Indian_independence_Struggle_displayed_1857_1945.webp)