Shaheed Diwas 2024 | Bhagat Singh Death Anniversary : Lesser-known facts about India's most revered freedom fighter

Bhagat Singh Death Anniversary: Bhagat Singh- a prominent figure in India's struggle for independence known for his bravery, patriotism, and commitment to the cause of freedom death anniversary is observed on March 23rd every year. 

Born on September 28, 1907, in Banga, Bhagat Singh was a revolutionary leader who fearlessly challenged British colonial rule. He believed in the power of youth and actively participated in various acts of resistance against the oppressive British regime.

One of the most iconic moments in Bhagat Singh's life was the Lahore Conspiracy Case, where he and his comrades were accused of involvement in the killing of British police officer John Saunders. 

Every year, March 23 is observed as Shaheed Diwas to pay tribute to Indian revolutionaries Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev, who were hanged by the British Government in 1931. The trio was found guilty of the murder of deputy police superintendent JP Saunders in 1928, to avenge the death of Lala Lajpat Rai. Bhagat Singh was 23, Rajguru was 22 and Sukhdev was 23 when they were hanged to death at Lahore Central Jail. 

Lesser-known facts about Bhagat Singh 

• Bhagat Singh was proficient in multiple languages, including Urdu, Punjabi, Hindi, and English. His linguistic abilities allowed him to communicate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and regions.
• In his early days, Bhagat Singh was a supporter of Mahatma Gandhi's ideals of non-violence.
• Bhagat Singh was a Marxist, influenced by the writings of Vladimir Lenin, Leon Trotsky, and Mikhail Bakunin

• During his imprisonment in Lahore Jail, Bhagat Singh undertook a 116-day hunger strike along with other political prisoners to protest against the inhumane treatment meted out by the British authorities.
• Bhagat Singh often wrote under various pseudonyms, including names like Balwant, Ranjit, and Vidhrohi. This allowed him to evade British surveillance while spreading his revolutionary ideas through pamphlets and newspapers.
• Singh and Dutt did not flee after throwing the bombs but stood there shouting 'Inquilab Zindabad.' They were arrested and sentenced to life in prison. Singh, along with Rajguru and Sukhdev, were executed on March 23, 1931. The 23rd of March is designated as 'Shaheed Diwas' to honour the trio. 

Bhagat Singh's legacy lives on as a symbol of courage, patriotism, and sacrifice. His martyrdom continues to inspire millions of Indians to uphold the values of freedom, justice, and equality.