Bhagat Singh

Bhagat Singh 1929

Bhagat Singh
Bhagat Singh in 1929
Born	Bhagat Singh Sandhu 28 September 1907 Banga, Punjab, British India
Died	23 March 1931 (aged 23) Lahore, Punjab, British India
Cause of death	Execution by hanging
Nationality	Indian
Other names	Shaheed-e-Azam
Known for	Indian independence movement
Movement	Hindustan Socialist Republican Association
Criminal charge(s)	Murder, Conspiracy
Criminal penalty	Death
Criminal status	Executed

Bhagat Singh (28 September 1907 – 23 March 1931) was an Indian revolutionary socialist who played a pivotal role in the Indian independence movement. He is often referred to as "Shaheed-e-Azam" (Great Martyr) for his contributions to the struggle against British colonial rule.

Early Life

Bhagat Singh was born into a Sikh family in the village of Banga, Punjab, in British India. His family was deeply involved in the Indian independence movement, which influenced his early life and education. He was inspired by the works of Bhagat Singh Thind, Lala Lajpat Rai, and other prominent leaders of the time.

Revolutionary Activities

Bhagat Singh became involved in revolutionary activities at a young age. He joined the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA), a radical group committed to the overthrow of British rule in India. He was influenced by the ideas of Marxism, anarchism, and socialism.

Saunders' Killing

In 1928, Bhagat Singh and his associates planned to avenge the death of Lala Lajpat Rai, who had died after being injured in a police lathi charge. They mistakenly killed John Saunders, a British police officer, in an attempt to assassinate James A. Scott, the police superintendent responsible for the lathi charge.

Assembly Bombing

On 8 April 1929, Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt threw non-lethal bombs into the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi to protest against repressive laws. They were arrested and used the court as a platform to propagate their revolutionary ideas.

Trial and Execution

Bhagat Singh, along with Rajguru and Sukhdev, was tried for the murder of John Saunders. Despite a spirited defense, they were found guilty and sentenced to death. Bhagat Singh was executed by hanging on 23 March 1931 in Lahore Central Jail.

Legacy

Bhagat Singh remains a significant figure in Indian history. His life and sacrifice have inspired generations of Indians. He is commemorated in numerous films, books, and songs. His legacy continues to be celebrated annually on his birth and death anniversaries.

See also

• Indian independence movement
• Hindustan Socialist Republican Association
• Lala Lajpat Rai
• Rajguru
• Sukhdev