As we commemorate India's Independence Day, the thoughts turn to Chandrashekhar 'Azad', the valiant commander-in-chief of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association. His sacrifice and the sacrifices of numerous revolutionaries remind us of their relentless pursuit of liberating the nation from colonial oppression.
Azad and his compatriots dreamt of a free India, unafraid to make any sacrifice for their motherland. However, the present raises poignant questions: Have their dreams been fulfilled? How did we reach a point where the aspirations of these revolutionaries seem distant from the priorities of those leading our nation today?
These questions often leave us in a thoughtful silence or overwhelmed by disillusionment. Azad, on the other hand, remained undeterred even in the face of the martyrdom of his closest allies after the Kakori train robbery. Amidst the British government's crackdown, he added 'socialist' to his organization's name, underscoring his commitment to the cause. As the commander-in-chief of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association, he proclaimed that their fight would persist until victory or death.
Azad's martyrdom prevented him from realizing his vision of a socialistic society alongside his comrades like Bhagat Singh, Ramprasad Bismil, Rajguru, and others. However, the course taken by the nation after 16 years of his sacrifice diverged from those ideals. The realization of Azad's dreams of a socialistic society seemed to fade into insignificance.
Azad's legacy lives on, as evident in his birthplace, Bhambri village, renamed Chandrashekhar Azad Nagar, and the recognition of his ancestors' village, Badarka. Yet, there's been a distinct lack of earnest efforts to acknowledge and fulfill Azad's hopes for his nation.
His journey began in response to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919. In 1922, he altered his path after Mahatma Gandhi's withdrawal of the non-cooperation movement, redirecting his struggle. Azad's activities included the Kakori train raid, targeting Saunders in Lahore, and operations in Delhi's Central Legislative Assembly.
After Azad's martyrdom, his mother Jagrani Devi suffered due to society's disregard. She found solace in Sadashiv Malkapurkar, Azad's loyal follower, who became her steadfast support. A mother's unending tears and Malkapurkar's care epitomize the complexities of sacrifice and legacy.
As we mark another Independence Day, we're reminded of Azad's undying spirit. His memorial, much like his dreams of a just society, remains overlooked. Let's use this occasion to reflect on the struggles of these valiant revolutionaries and recommit ourselves to upholding the values they fought for—a free and just India.
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