Bhagat Singh Biography: Life, Freedom Struggle, and Legacy of a Revolutionary Hero.
Bhagat Singh: The Revolutionary Who Shook British Rule.
Early Life and Background
Bhagat Singh was born on 28th September 1907 in Banga, a small village in the Lyallpur district of Punjab, which is now in Pakistan. He came from a patriotic Sikh family deeply involved in the freedom struggle. Bhagat Singh was deeply inspired by his father, Kishan Singh, and his uncle, Ajit Singh, both of whom were freedom fighters.
As a child, Bhagat Singh witnessed the aftermath of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919, which deeply disturbed him and sowed the seeds of revolution in his heart. At a young age, he was already dreaming of a free India, free from British oppression.
Table of Contents
Education and Rise of Revolutionary Spirit
Bhagat Singh was an intelligent student who had a sharp mind and a strong interest in reading books, especially on literature and history. He joined National College in Lahore, where he came in contact with revolutionary leaders and ideas. He was heavily influenced by the works of Marx, Lenin, and Mazzini, shaping his socialist and anti-imperialist ideology.
Rejecting Gandhi’s non-violent approach after the Chauri Chaura incident, Bhagat Singh believed that only armed struggle could overthrow British rule. In 1924, he joined the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) and began organizing young revolutionaries.
Major Revolutionary Acts
Bhagat Singh’s revolutionary activities began to gain national attention with two major events:
1. Killing of John Saunders (1928)
After the death of Lala Lajpat Rai, who was beaten by police during a protest, Bhagat Singh and his associates plotted revenge. Mistakenly targeting James Scott, they assassinated Assistant Superintendent John Saunders in Lahore. To avoid being caught by the British, Bhagat Singh shaved his beard and cut his hair, giving up his Sikh appearance and going into hiding.
2. Bombing of Central Legislative Assembly (1929)
To protest British laws curbing civil liberties, Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt threw harmless bombs inside the Central Assembly in Delhi. The bombs were not intended to harm anyone but to “make the deaf hear.” After throwing the bombs, they surrendered willingly, shouting “Inquilab Zindabad” (Long Live the Revolution).
Trial, Writings, and Execution
During his time in jail, Bhagat Singh wrote several letters, articles, and even a powerful essay titled “Why I Am an Atheist.” His writings revealed his deep understanding of politics, philosophy, and revolution.
In 1931, Bhagat Singh, along with his companions Rajguru and Sukhdev, was given the death sentence for the assassination of British officer John Saunders. Despite widespread protests and appeals for clemency, the British authorities carried out the sentence.
Date of Execution
March 23, 1931, at Lahore Central Jail. Bhagat Singh was only 23 years old.
This date is now observed as Shaheed Diwas (Martyrs’ Day) in his memory.
5 Life Lessons from Bhagat Singh
1. Stand for what you believe in
Bhagat Singh stood firm in his beliefs, even when it meant death. True courage lies in conviction.
2. Knowledge is power
He educated himself on revolutionary ideologies, proving that books and ideas can shape revolutions.
3. Actions speak louder than words
Bhagat Singh didn’t just talk of revolution-he lived it, acted on it, and sacrificed everything for it.
4. Age is just a number
At 23, he achieved what many fail to in a lifetime-an eternal place in history.
5. Selfless service to nation
He never sought fame or power-only freedom for India. A true patriot always puts the nation’s welfare above everything else.
Final Thoughts
Bhagat Singh’s life stands as a powerful example of youthful energy, clear thinking, and extraordinary bravery. He continues to inspire generations to stand against injustice and work for a better world. In a time when India’s freedom was just a dream, Bhagat Singh helped turn that dream into a fiery vision of revolution. His story is not just history—it is a call to action for every Indian.