Wednesday, September 18, 2019
Lala Lajpat Rai life:
Lala Lajpat Rai, also known as Punjab Kesari (Lion of Punjab), was an influential Indian nationalist leader and a key figure in the Indian independence movement.
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| Lala Lajpat Rai |
Here is an overview of Lala Lajpat Rai's life:
Early Life:
Born: January 28, 1865, in Dhudike, Punjab, British India (present-day Punjab, Pakistan).
Education: Lajpat Rai studied law at Government College in Lahore and later qualified for the legal profession.
Political and Social Activism:
Founding of Arya Samaj: Lajpat Rai was associated with the Arya Samaj, a Hindu reform movement. He worked towards social and educational reforms in Punjab.
Political Career: Lajpat Rai entered politics and became a prominent leader in the Indian National Congress. He advocated for self-rule and opposed British colonial policies.
Role in Swadeshi Movement:
Lajpat Rai actively participated in the Swadeshi Movement, encouraging Indians to promote indigenous industries and boycott British-made goods.
Opposition to Simon Commission:
In 1928, the British government appointed the Simon Commission to review and suggest constitutional reforms for India. Lajpat Rai strongly opposed the commission, as it did not include any Indian members. He led a non-violent protest against the commission in Lahore.
Death and Consequences:
During the protest against the Simon Commission on October 30, 1928, Lajpat Rai was injured in a lathi (baton) charge by the police led by James A. Scott.
Lajpat Rai succumbed to his injuries on November 17, 1928.
In retaliation for Lajpat Rai's death, Bhagat Singh and his associates planned to assassinate James A. Scott. However, the plan went awry, and J.P. Saunders was mistakenly shot and killed.
The death of J.P. Saunders led to the trial of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev, known as the Lahore Conspiracy Case.
Legacy:
Lala Lajpat Rai is remembered as a fearless and dedicated freedom fighter who made significant contributions to the Indian independence movement.
His death became a rallying point for nationalists, and the slogan "Inquilab Zindabad" (Long Live the Revolution) gained popularity.
The Lajpat Rai Market in Delhi is named in his honor.
The Lala Lajpat Rai Institute of Engineering and Technology in Punjab is also named after him.
Lala Lajpat Rai's sacrifice and commitment to the cause of Indian independence continue to inspire generations of Indians. His contributions are remembered with respect and admiration in the annals of India's struggle for freedom.