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Chandra Shekhar Tiwari, famously known as Chandrashekhar Azad, played a pivotal role as an Indian revolutionary leader and freedom fighter. He stepped up to lead the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) after the demise of its founder, Ram Prasad Bismil, along with three other prominent party leaders – Roshan Singh, Rajendra Nath Lahiri, and Ashfaqulla Khan. Recognizing the need for change, he rebranded the organization as the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA).
Chandra Shekhar Tiwari’s roots trace back to Bardarka village in the Unnao district of the United Provinces. Born to Sitaram Tiwari and Jagrani Devi on July 23, 1906, he was a passionate freedom fighter who went by the alias “Balraj” when signing pamphlets as the commander-in-chief of the HSRA. His dedication to the cause and his leadership were instrumental in the HSRA’s mission to secure India’s independence.
Chandra Shekhar Azad Biography
| Chandra Shekhar Azad Biography | |
| Particular | Details |
| Birth | July 23, 1906 |
| Parents | His father Sitaram Tiwari was a gardener, while his mother Jagrani Devi was a homemaker |
| Original Name | Chandra Shekhar Tiwari After joining the movement, he was arrested by the British police and when he was presented before a magistrate, he declared his name to be ‘Azad’, his father’s name as ‘Swatantra’, and his residence as ‘prison’ |
| Revolutionary Organisation he was associated with | Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) |
| Revolutionary Activities he was involved | Kakori Train Robbery on August 9, 1925 Shooting of JP Saunders at Lahore in 1928 |
| Death | He died at Azad Park in Allahabad on 27th February 1931 |
Chandra Shekhar Azad: Revolutionary Activities
The Hindustan Socialist Republic Association
Chandrashekhar Azad played a pivotal role within the Hindustan Socialist Republic Association (HSRA), an organization established by Ram Prasad Bismil in 1928. His primary task was to gather financial support for HSRA’s cause. Azad staunchly advocated for armed resistance as the means to liberate India from British colonial rule.
Role in Kakori Train Robbery
One significant episode in Azad’s revolutionary journey was his involvement in the Kakori Train Robbery on 9th August 1925, near Lucknow. The objective of this daring act was to secure funds for HSRA’s activities and mission. This audacious act catapulted both Azad and HSRA into the spotlight, prompting intensified British efforts to apprehend them.
Other Revolutionary Activities
Azad’s commitment to the revolutionary cause extended beyond this event. In 1928, he participated in the assassination of John P. Saunders in Lahore as retribution for the killing of Lala Lajpat Rai. In 1929, he even attempted to sabotage the Viceroy of India’s train.
Activities in Jhansi
During this time, Azad strategically utilized Jhansi as the central hub for his organization. Located approximately 15 kilometers from Jhansi, the Orchha forest served as a training ground for shooting practice and the preparation of his group members. Furthermore, Azad undertook the noble task of educating children from the nearby village of Dhimarpura, fostering positive relationships with the local community.
It was during this period that individuals like Sadashivrao Malkapurkar, Vishwanath Vaishampayan, and Bhagwan Daas Mathur became closely associated with Azad, becoming integral members of his revolutionary cadre.
Encounter at Alfred Park (Company Bagh)
Azad’s impact on the British Raj law enforcement faction was evident from how much effort they put into capturing him dead or alive. They even announced a reward of Rs.30,000 on his head, which led to vital information on the whereabouts of Azad. At Alfred Park in Allahabad on 27 February 1931, Azad fought valiantly and single-handedly against a large number of police officers and chose to die as a free man rather than surrender.
Chandra Shekhar Azad and Bhagat Singh
The Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) was founded in 1923 by Jogesh Chandra Chatterjee, Bismil, Sachindra Nath Bakshi, and Sachindra Nath Sanyal. In 1925, following the Kakori train robbery, the British authorities made efforts to suppress the activities of the revolutionaries. Ashfaqulla Khan, Prasad, Rajendra Nath Lahiri, and Thakur Roshan Singh were condemned to death for their involvement in revolutionary actions.
Meanwhile, Murari Lal Gupta, Chakravarthy, Azad, and Keshab managed to evade capture. They received assistance from fellow revolutionaries like Mahavir Singh and Shiv Verma, which enabled Chandrashekhar Azad to reorganize the association.
In 1928, Chandrashekhar Azad, Bhagat Singh, and other revolutionaries clandestinely revamped the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) and gave it a new name – the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) on 8-9 September. Their main objective was to work towards an independent India founded on socialist principles.
Manmath Nath Gupta, a member of HSRA, chronicled Azad’s revolutionary activities in multiple writings. Gupta dedicated a section in his book titled “History of the Indian Revolutionary Movement” to elucidate Azad’s contributions, aptly naming it “Chandrashekhar Azad.”
Chandra Shekhar Death
- After being cornered by the police and exhausting his ammunition, Chandra Shekhar Azad took his own life on February 27, 1931, in what is now known as Azad Park in Allahabad.
- Prior to this tragic event, their former comrade, Veerbhadra Tiwari, who had later become a traitor, informed the authorities about Azad’s presence in the park. Consequently, the police swiftly encircled him.
- In the midst of defending himself, Azad sustained injuries, while Sukhdev Raj managed to eliminate three police officers and wound others. Thanks to his actions, Sukhdev Raj was able to escape.
- With minimal public awareness, Azad’s body was quietly taken to Rasulabad Ghat for cremation. However, as word spread, people started to gather at the park where the incident occurred. They raised anti-British slogans and expressed their gratitude to Azad.
Chandra Shekhar Azad Legacy
Numerous schools, roads, colleges, and various public institutions in India bear his name. Starting with Jagdish Gautam’s 1963 film “Chandrashekhar Azad” and followed by Manoj Kumar’s 1965 production “Shaheed,” many movies have depicted the life of Azad on screen. Bollywood actor Manmohan took on the role of Azad in the 1965 film, while Sunny Deol portrayed him in “23 March 1931: Shaheed.” Akhilendra Mishra also brought Azad to life in “The Legend of Bhagat Singh,” and Raj Zutshi assumed the character in “Shaheed-E-Azam.” In Rakesh Omprakash Mehra’s film “Rang De Basanti,” Aamir Khan stepped into Azad’s shoes.
In his autobiography, Jawaharlal Nehru recounts a meeting with Azad shortly before his demise, during which they discussed the impact of the Gandhi-Irwin pact. Nehru perceived the limitations of Azad’s approach and remained somewhat skeptical of his nonviolent methods.
The lives of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Azad, and Ashfaq found representation in the 2006 film “Rang De Basanti,” featuring Aamir Khan as Azad. This movie aimed to showcase the experiences of these young revolutionaries, offering inspiration to today’s youth.
In the 2018 television series “Chandrashekhar,” the journey of Chandrashekhar Azad’s transformation from a young boy to a revolutionary leader was portrayed. Ayaan Zubair depicted Azad’s early life, while Dev Joshi portrayed him during his teenage years, and Karan Sharma took on the role of an adult Azad.
Chandra Shekhar Azad Jayanti
Chandrashekhar Azad Jayanti is an important day in India that commemorates the birth anniversary of one of the nation’s most iconic freedom fighters, Chandrashekhar Azad. Chandra Shekar Azad birth date is July 23, 1906, and was born in Bhavra village, Madhya Pradesh, Chandrashekhar Azad, whose original name was Chandrasekhar Tiwari, played a significant role in India’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule.
Chandrashekhar Azad was a fearless and devoted revolutionary who dedicated his life to the cause of Indian independence. He is primarily remembered for his role in the Kakori Conspiracy of 1925, in which he and his associates attempted to loot a train carrying government funds. The incident was a symbol of resistance against British oppression and marked Azad as a prominent figure in the fight for freedom.
Key aspects of Chandrashekhar Azad Jayanti
- Tributes and Celebrations: On Chandrashekhar Azad Jayanti, the nation pays homage to this fearless patriot. Various events and programs are organized across the country to celebrate his life and contributions. Schools, colleges, and institutions often hold special assemblies or functions to educate students about his sacrifices and commitment to the nation.
- Remembering His Sacrifices: Chandrashekhar Azad’s unwavering commitment to India’s freedom struggle is remembered with great reverence. His sacrifices, including his refusal to surrender to the British, even in the face of capture, serve as a source of inspiration for generations.
- Inspiration for Youth: Chandrashekhar Azad’s life story continues to inspire the youth of India. His determination, courage, and dedication to the cause of freedom encourage young people to value their independence and work towards a better future for the nation.
- Tribute at Jallianwala Bagh: One notable location for Chandrashekhar Azad Jayanti celebrations is Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar. This historic site, where hundreds of innocent Indians were killed by British troops in 1919, holds special significance as Azad paid his respects here. People gather at this memorial to remember both the tragedy and the brave souls who fought for India’s freedom.
- Educational Initiatives: Chandrashekhar Azad Jayanti also serves as an opportunity to promote educational initiatives that highlight the contributions of freedom fighters like Azad. Documentaries, seminars, and discussions are organized to spread awareness about his life and the broader struggle for independence.
Chandrashekhar Azad Jayanti is not just a day to remember a courageous freedom fighter but also a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals in the fight for India’s independence. It encourages citizens to cherish the hard-earned freedom and to work towards a brighter and more prosperous future for the nation, in line with the ideals upheld by Chandrashekhar Azad and other freedom fighters.
FAQs on Chandra Shekhar Azad Biography
What is the famous slogan of Chandrashekhar Azad?
The famous slogan associated with Chandrashekhar Azad is Dushman ki goliyon ka hum samna karenge, Azad hi rahein hain, Azad hi rahenge, which translates to We will face the enemy's bullets; we are free, and we will remain free.
What was the contribution of Chandrashekhar Azad in the freedom struggle?
Chandrashekhar Azad was a prominent freedom fighter in India's struggle for independence. He played a crucial role in various revolutionary activities and is best known for his participation in the Kakori Conspiracy of 1925, as well as for his unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom.
What are the lines of Chandrashekhar Azad?
Chandrashekhar Azad's famous lines include: Dushman ki goliyon ka hum samna karenge, Azad hi rahein hain, Azad hi rahenge, which translates to We will face the enemy's bullets; we are free, and we will remain free.
Where was Chandra Shekhar Azad born?
Chandrashekhar Azad was born in Bhavra village, in the present-day Alirajpur district of Madhya Pradesh, India.
How Did Chandrashekhar Azad Die?
Chandrashekhar Azad died on February 27, 1931, in Alfred Park, Allahabad (now Prayagraj), during a shootout with the British police. Rather than surrendering to the authorities, he chose to uphold his pledge of never being captured alive and took his own life.
What is Chandrashekhar Azad's Birth Date?
Chandrashekhar Azad was born on July 23, 1906.
