Chandrasekhar Azad: The Fearless Revolutionary Who Never Surrendered

Chandrasekhar Azad, a name synonymous with unwavering patriotism, audacious bravery, and unyielding commitment to India's freedom struggle, remains an iconic figure etched in the annals of Indian history. His life, though tragically short, was a whirlwind of revolutionary fervor, inspiring generations with his indomitable spirit and his famous pledge: “Azad hun, azad rahunga aur azad hi marunga” (I am free, I will live free, and I will die free). Born Chandrasekhar Tiwari on July 23, 1906, in Bhabra village in present-day Madhya Pradesh, Azad's early life was steeped in the socio-political unrest brewing in British-ruled India. His father, a poor Brahmin, Sitaram Tiwari, moved to Alirajpur seeking employment and stability. While Azad received initial schooling, his heart yearned for something more than formal education. He was drawn to the burgeoning nationalist movement, witnessing firsthand the injustice and oppression meted out by the British Raj.

Early Exposure to Nationalism and the Incident That Defined Him:

During Mahatma Gandhi's Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920, Azad was introduced to the revolutionary movement. Even at the age of 14, he took an active part in anti-British protests and demonstrations. Authorities soon became aware of his ferocious enthusiasm and candid demeanor. After being arrested for taking part in a protest, he was brought before a magistrate who inquired about his name, address, and father's name. In addition to angering the magistrate, Azad's belligerent response, "My name is Azad (Free), my father's name is Swatantrata (Freedom), and my residence is jail," earned him 15 lashes of flogging. This event turned out to be a turning point in his life, strengthening his commitment and giving him the moniker "Azad," which he would always go by.

Joining the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA):

Disillusioned by the suspension of the Non-Cooperation Movement after the Chauri Chaura incident, Azad sought a more radical path. He was drawn to the ideologies of other revolutionaries advocating for complete independence through armed struggle. This led him to join the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA), a revolutionary organization founded by Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, and other like-minded patriots. The HRA aimed to establish a "Republic of the United States of India" through armed revolution. Under the guidance of senior revolutionaries, Azad immersed himself in the HRA's activities, learning the intricacies of weaponry, bomb-making, and guerrilla warfare. He quickly demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, strategic thinking, and unwavering courage, earning the trust and respect of his comrades.

The Kakori Train Robbery: A Bold Declaration of Intent:

In 1925, the HRA planned and executed the audacious Kakori Train Robbery. The objective was to loot government money being transported by train to finance their revolutionary activities. Azad played a crucial role in the robbery, demonstrating his tactical acumen and bravery. The robbery sent shockwaves through the British administration and galvanized support for the revolutionary movement. However, it also triggered a massive crackdown by the British police, leading to the arrest and execution of key HRA leaders like Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, and Roshan Singh.

Rebuilding and Restructuring: The Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA):

The Kakori Conspiracy Case dealt a severe blow to the HRA. However, Azad, along with Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Rajguru, and other surviving revolutionaries, vowed to keep the flame of revolution burning. They recognized the need to restructure the organization and broaden its appeal. In 1928, at a meeting held at Feroz Shah Kotla in Delhi, the HRA was renamed the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA). The addition of "Socialist" reflected the organization's commitment to social justice and economic equality alongside political independence.

Azad became the commander-in-chief of the HSRA, responsible for planning and executing its operations. He instilled discipline, strategic thinking, and a strong sense of purpose among the cadre. He emphasized the importance of connecting with the masses and raising awareness about the exploitative nature of British rule.

Avenging Lala Lajpat Rai's Death: The Killing of Saunders:

The HSRA's next significant action was in response to the death of Lala Lajpat Rai, a prominent nationalist leader, who succumbed to injuries sustained during a police lathi charge. Azad, Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev vowed to avenge Lajpat Rai's death. They identified Superintendent of Police James Scott as the officer responsible for the lathi charge. However, in a case of mistaken identity, they ended up killing Assistant Superintendent of Police John Saunders in Lahore in 1928.

The assassination of Saunders further intensified the British government's pursuit of the HSRA revolutionaries. Azad became the most wanted man in British India, with a hefty reward placed on his head. Despite the intense pressure, he managed to evade capture, moving from one hideout to another, organizing and motivating his comrades.

The Central Assembly Bombing: A Powerful Symbolic Protest:

The HSRA believed in using dramatic and symbolic acts of defiance to capture public attention and raise awareness about their cause. In 1929, Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt threw bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi while shouting slogans of "Inquilab Zindabad!" (Long Live Revolution!). The bombs were deliberately designed to cause minimal harm, and their primary purpose was to create a symbolic disturbance and spread their message. While Bhagat Singh and Dutt courted arrest, Azad remained at large, continuing to organize the movement from underground.

The Final Stand in Alfred Park:

After Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru were arrested, Azad worked tirelessly to secure their release. He was constantly on the move, organizing support and planning strategies. On February 27, 1931, he met with a comrade, Sukhdev Raj, in Alfred Park (now Chandrasekhar Azad Park) in Allahabad. However, their meeting was betrayed to the police by an informant.

The park was surrounded by a large contingent of police led by Superintendent of Police J.R.H. Nott-Bower. Azad and Sukhdev Raj found themselves trapped in a desperate situation. Determined not to be captured alive, Azad engaged in a fierce gun battle with the police. He fought valiantly, protecting Sukhdev Raj and allowing him to escape. However, vastly outnumbered and running out of ammunition, Azad remained defiant. He had vowed to never be captured alive by the British, and he was determined to keep his word. In a final act of unwavering self-determination, Chandrasekhar Azad shot himself with his last bullet, fulfilling his lifelong pledge. He died a free man, never surrendering to the enemy he had fought so relentlessly.

Legacy and Inspirations

Chandrasekhar Azad's enduring legacy stems from his absolute dedication to Indian independence. A symbol of unwavering patriotism and self-sacrifice, he fearlessly led the revolutionary movement, demonstrating an indomitable spirit and strategic brilliance. His commitment to social justice, as reflected in his association with the HSRA, further solidified his position as a leader who fought not only for freedom but also for a just society. He remains an inspiration, embodying courage and principle, having lived and died without surrendering his ideals.

Chandrasekhar Azad's story serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals in the struggle for India's independence. His life and legacy continue to inspire us to strive for a better world, one where freedom, justice, and equality prevail. He remains an eternal symbol of resistance against oppression and a beacon of hope for generations to come.

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