India’s independence movement was a series of historic events and sacrifices by thousands of freedom fighters. Undoubtedly, Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhash Chandra Bose, Rani Lakshmi Bai and many more are amongst the famous freedom fighters and have got spotlight, but there are so many freedom fighters who contributed to the struggle for independence. But their names faded into the darkness and we call them “the unsung heroes of India”.
These heroes were the backbone of the freedom movement, working tirelessly behind the scenes to make it a success. They were the ones who organised protests, strikes, and boycotts, and they were often the ones who faced the most brutal repression by the British authorities. Some of the most notable unsung heroes include the following:
(1) Matangini Hazra: She was an Indian revolutionary who became actively interested in the Indian independence movement as a Gandhian. She was a part of the Quit India Movement and was known for her courage and determination.
(2) Peer Ali Khan: He was one of the initial rebels of India, who participated in the Indian independence movement, yet unknown to many.
(3) Khudiram Bose: He was one of the youngest revolutionaries.
(4) Lakshmi Sahgal: She was an officer of the Indian National army and the minister of women’s affairs in the Azad Hind government.
(5) Tantia Tope: He was a general in the Indian rebellion of 1857 and one of its notable leaders.
These are just a few examples among many forgotten heroes who contributed to India’s struggle for freedom.
Today, it’s our duty to resurrect their stories from the shadows, to honor their memory and acknowledge their contributions. Each forgotten hero deserves a place in our hearts and our narratives. Their struggles and sacrifices, though buried beneath the weight of time, continue to echo through the tapestry of India’s journey towards independence.
Let us remember those whose names may have been lost in the pages of history, but whose spirits live on in the spirit of a free India. Let us shed tears not of sorrow, but of gratitude and admiration for their unwavering commitment to the cause of liberty. May their sacrifices never be forgotten, and may their stories inspire generations to come.
– The writer is a BA 5th Semester student at Govt. Degree College Sogam (Lolab), Kupwara