12 Lesser-Known Facts About Shaheed Bhagat Singh That Will Inspire You

12 Lesser-Known Facts About Shaheed Bhagat Singh That Will Inspire You

Bhagat Singh – The Revolutionary Icon of India’s Freedom Struggle

The Indian freedom struggle was marked by the sacrifices of many fearless revolutionaries. One such iconic figure is Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh, whose unwavering patriotism and ultimate sacrifice made him a legend in India’s history. Here are 12 lesser-known facts about the young martyr that will leave you inspired.

1. The Meaning Behind His Name

Bhagat Singh’s name was derived from the word “Bhagwala”, meaning fortunate. His grandmother suggested this name because, on his birth, his father Kishan Singh and uncles, Swarn Singh and Ajit Singh, were released from jail.

2. He Dreamt of a Free India at Just 8 Years Old

Even as a child, Bhagat Singh was deeply moved by India’s struggle for independence. At the age of 15, he left home for Kanpur to escape an arranged marriage, declaring that his only bride would be freedom. He later joined the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) to fight British rule.

3. A Passionate Writer and Journalist

While in Kanpur, Bhagat Singh worked for the newspaper ‘Pratap’ under the guidance of Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi. He was also a regular contributor to the magazine ‘Kirti’, writing in Urdu, Gurmukhi, and Hindi.

4. He Requested to Be Shot, Not Hanged

Bhagat Singh requested the British government to execute him by firing squad instead of hanging, considering himself a war prisoner. However, his request was denied.

5. Kartar Singh Sarabha Was His Role Model

Bhagat Singh deeply admired Kartar Singh Sarabha, a fellow revolutionary. Sarabha’s martyrdom at just 19 years old had a profound impact on Bhagat Singh’s life, inspiring him to continue the fight for India’s freedom.

6. He Penned the Theme of the Book ‘Dreamland’

While imprisoned, Bhagat Singh wrote about the theme of the book ‘Dreamland’ by Ramsaran Das, which covered topics such as violence, non-violence, and religion.

7. A Multilingual Scholar

Bhagat Singh was highly intellectual and had a command over Hindi, Urdu, English, Punjabi, and Gurmukhi from a young age.

8. His 116-Day Hunger Strike Shocked the British

During his time in jail, Bhagat Singh fasted for 116 days, demanding better treatment for political prisoners. Despite his hunger strike, he continued his daily activities, including reading, writing, and attending court hearings.

9. He Coined the Term ‘Political Prisoner’

Bhagat Singh and his comrades were among the first to raise awareness about the term ‘political prisoner’, demanding that freedom fighters be treated differently from ordinary criminals.

10. His Execution Was Rushed Out of Fear

Bhagat Singh was sentenced to be hanged on March 24, 1931, but fearing public outrage, the British authorities secretly executed him on March 23, 1931, at 7 PM in Lahore Central Jail. His body was later cremated near the Ravi River.

11. He Walked to the Gallows With a Smile

As Bhagat Singh approached his execution, he remained fearless, smiling and shouting ‘Down with British imperialism!’ before being hanged.

12. Even British Officials Feared His Influence

It is believed that no British magistrate was willing to oversee Bhagat Singh’s hanging. Ultimately, an honorary judge was forced to sign and supervise his execution.

 Bhagat Singh’s Legacy Lives On

Bhagat Singh’s sacrifice at just 23 years old continues to inspire generations. His bravery, intellect, and revolutionary ideas remain a guiding force for those who dream of a just and free society. His legacy reminds us that true patriotism is about standing up for what is right, no matter the cost.

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