Lala Lajpat Rai Biography

Lala Lajpat Rai, popularly known as the “Punjab Kesari” and the “Lion of Punjab,” was one of the most courageous leaders of India’s freedom struggle. His fearless leadership, sacrifices, and powerful writings inspired countless Indians to fight against British rule.

Early Life and Education

Lala Lajpat Rai was born on 28 January 1865 in Dhudike village, Punjab (now in Moga district). His father, Munshi Radha Kishan Azad, was a teacher, and his mother, Gulab Devi, was deeply religious. Lajpat Rai studied law at Government College, Lahore, and soon developed a strong sense of nationalism.

Role in Freedom Struggle

Lajpat Rai was an active leader in the Indian National Congress and one of the prominent members of the extremist faction, along with Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal, famously known as Lal-Bal-Pal. He believed in self-reliance, Swadeshi, and direct action against British policies.

  • He strongly opposed the partition of Bengal in 1905.
  • He founded and supported several institutions like the Dayanand Anglo-Vedic (DAV) Schools to promote education.
  • He traveled abroad, especially to the United States, to gather international support for India’s independence.

Contribution as a Writer and Reformer

Lajpat Rai was also a prolific writer and social reformer. He wrote extensively to awaken political consciousness among Indians. Some of his notable works include Young India, England’s Debt to India, and The Story of My Deportation. Through his writings, he exposed the exploitation of India by the British and inspired youth to join the struggle.

Simon Commission Protest and Martyrdom

In 1928, the British government sent the Simon Commission to India, which did not include a single Indian member. This caused widespread outrage. Lala Lajpat Rai led a massive non-violent protest against the Commission in Lahore on 30 October 1928. During the protest, he was brutally lathi-charged by the police under James A. Scott’s orders.

Although he was injured, Rai famously declared, “Every blow on my body will prove a nail in the coffin of British rule.” He succumbed to his injuries on 17 November 1928, becoming a martyr for India’s independence.

Legacy

Lala Lajpat Rai is remembered as a symbol of courage and sacrifice. His leadership not only strengthened the freedom movement but also inspired revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh and Chandrashekhar Azad to intensify the struggle against colonial rule. He is honored as the “Punjab Kesari” and the “Lion of Punjab” for his indomitable spirit.

Learn More

For more detailed information, visit Lala Lajpat Rai’s Wikipedia page.