Lala Lajpat Rai was a prominent Indian freedom fighter and a key figure in the Indian independence movement. Here are a few key factors approximately him:

Early Life:

Birth: Lala Lajpat Rai was born on January 28, 1865, in Dhudike, Punjab, British India.

Munshi Radha Krishan Agrawal, a Persian and Urdu teacher, and Gulab Devi, a pious lady, were the parents of Lala Lajpat Rai. After obtaining his law degree, he commenced his legal practice in Hisar, Haryana.

In Hinduism, Rai believed in the potential of Hindu principles to foster nationalism and envisaged a genuinely secular nation founded on these ideals. Concurrently, he engaged with the Hindu Mahasabha.

Education:

He studied law at Government College in Lahore, where he came in contact with fellow freedom fighters like Lala Hans Raj and Pandit Guru Dutt.

Role in the Independence Movement:

Lajpat Rai played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement and was a part of the Lal Bal Pal trio, along with Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal.

He was associated with various socio-political movements and organizations, including the Arya Samaj.

His resounding slogan, “Freedom is not given; it is taken. Fight for your rights,” encapsulates his unwavering dedication to the reason for India’s independence.

Leadership in Punjab:

Lala Lajpat Rai was an ardent advocate for militant anti-British nationalism within the Indian National Congress, simultaneously being a prominent leader in the Hindu supremacy movement.

Lala Lajpat Rai, famously known as the Lion of Punjab, was a stalwart in the Indian independence movement. He earned the moniker Punjab Kesari, symbolizing his fearless spirit

Lajpat Rai also served as the President of the All India Trade Union Congress.

In 1886, Rai founded the Hisar branch of the Indian National Congress and later shifted to Lahore in 1892 to practice law at the Lahore High Court. He actively contributed to various magazines and newspapers and initiated political agitation against the government.

Deported to Mandalay in 1907 without trial, he was released due to insufficient evidence. In 1914, he abandoned law practice to devote himself to India’s liberation from foreign rule.

Living in the USA from 1917 to 1920, Rai founded the Indian Home Rule League of America to garner moral support for India’s independence struggle.

He petitioned the US Senate, depicting the dire state of Indian administration under British rule. Upon returning to India, he joined various INC movements.

Protests Against Simon Commission and Death

Lala Lajpat Rai led a protest against the Simon Commission in 1928. During the protest, he sustained injuries inflicted by the police baton charge. He later succumbed to these injuries

His death led to widespread outrage and contributed to the anti-British sentiments during the independence movement.

During the Simon Commission’s visit to Lahore on October 30, 1928, Rai led a silent march protesting its exclusion of Indian members. The Superintendent of Police, James Scott, subjected him to a brutal lathi charge. Despite the assault, Rai declared to the crowd, “I declare that the blows struck at me today will be the last nails in the coffin of British rule in India.” Martyr’s Day is celebrated on November 17 in his honor in India.

Legacy:

Lajpat Nagar, a prominent locality in Delhi, is named after him.

His contribution to India’s freedom struggle is remembered and honored nationwide.

Lala Lajpat Rai’s commitment to the cause of Indian independence and his sacrifices for the nation have secured him a revered place in India’s history.

Lajpat Rai’s notable works include:

• The Story of My Deportation
• The United States of America: A Hindu’s Impression
• Arya Samaj
• England’s Debt to India
• Unhappy India