Chandrashekhar Azad, born as Chandrashekhar Tiwari on July 23, 1906, was one of the most prominent figures in the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule. He is remembered for his unwavering courage, fierce patriotism, and commitment to the cause of freedom.
Azad’s early life saw him deeply affected by the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919 and the Non-Cooperation Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi. He became involved in the freedom struggle at a young age, joining various revolutionary groups.
Azad is perhaps best known for his role in the Kakori Conspiracy of 1925. This was a train robbery organized by a group of revolutionaries to fund the armed struggle against British rule. Although the robbery itself was not entirely successful, it brought Azad to the forefront of national attention.
He was a key member of the Hindustan Republican Association (later renamed Hindustan Socialist Republican Association) and worked closely with other notable revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh. Azad was instrumental in organizing and leading several acts of resistance against British authorities.
Chandrashekhar Azad’s commitment to the cause of Indian independence was unwavering. He believed in armed struggle as a means to achieve freedom and was known for his fearlessness in the face of danger. He adopted the pseudonym “Azad,” meaning “free” in Urdu, to symbolize his defiance against British rule.
Azad met his tragic end on February 27, 1931, during a shootout with British police in Alfred Park (now Chandrashekhar Azad Park) in Allahabad. Rather than surrendering to the British authorities, he chose to die fighting, upholding his vow never to be captured alive.
Chandrashekhar Azad remains an enduring symbol of courage, sacrifice, and determination in the Indian independence movement. His legacy continues to inspire generations of Indians in their pursuit of justice and freedom.
