Bhagat Singh, the name resonates with patriotism, sacrifice, and revolutionary zeal. Often remembered as Shaheed Bhagat Singh (Martyr Bhagat Singh), he was one of India’s most iconic and influential freedom fighters. His bold defiance against British colonial rule and his ultimate martyrdom at a young age made him a symbol of resistance.
In this long-form biography, we’ll delve deep into Bhagat Singh’s life story, from his birth and early years, to his family background, writings, and his ultimate sacrifice for India’s independence. Whether you’re a student seeking a short note for an assignment or a history enthusiast wanting an in-depth perspective, this article serves all user intents.
Bhagat Singh Wiki Data Table
Field | Details |
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Full Name | Bhagat Singh Sandhu |
Date of Birth | September 28, 1907 |
Place of Birth | Banga, Punjab Province, British India |
Date of Death | March 23, 1931 |
Age at Death | 23 years old |
Father’s Name | Kishan Singh Sandhu |
Mother’s Name | Vidyavati Kaur |
Known For | Revolutionary Activities, Anti-British Movements |
Ideologies | Socialism, Marxism, Anti-Colonialism |
Famous Slogan | “Inquilab Zindabad” (Long Live the Revolution) |
Books Written | “Why I Am an Atheist”, Jail Diary, Essays |
Executed By | British Government (Hanged) |
Death Place | Lahore Central Jail, British India (Now in Pakistan) |
Early Life of Bhagat Singh
Childhood and Birthplace
Bhagat Singh was born on September 28, 1907, in the village of Banga in Lyallpur district, Punjab (now in Pakistan). His birth coincided with a time when the country was already stirring with nationalist sentiments. The soil he was born into had long been soaked with revolutionary ideals.
Family Background
Bhagat Singh hailed from a Sikh Sandhu Jat family known for its patriotic involvement. His father, Kishan Singh Sandhu, and uncles, Ajit Singh and Swaran Singh, were active in the freedom movement even before his birth.
His household wasn’t just a family; it was a crucible of revolution. Stories of bravery and the ongoing Indian resistance against the British Raj were part of his daily upbringing.
Education and Ideological Awakening
Schooling
Bhagat Singh was a bright student from a young age. He was initially enrolled at District Primary School in Banga and later attended Dayanand Anglo Vedic High School in Lahore. His studies exposed him to the ideas of Arya Samaj, which shaped his thinking.
Later, he joined the National College in Lahore, founded by Lala Lajpat Rai, where he came into contact with nationalist leaders and began engaging in political activism.
Turning Point: Jallianwala Bagh Massacre
At just 12 years old, the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919) deeply shook Bhagat Singh. He visited the site the very next day and collected blood-soaked soil as a souvenir, a moment that sealed his destiny as a revolutionary.
Bhagat Singh’s Revolutionary Activities
Formation of Naujawan Bharat Sabha
In 1926, Bhagat Singh founded the Naujawan Bharat Sabha, an organization that inspired the youth with socialist and anti-British ideas. The Sabha was instrumental in spreading political awareness and urging Indians to demand independence, not just reforms.
Association with Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA)
Later, he became a key member of the HSRA, a revolutionary group that believed in armed resistance as a legitimate method to achieve freedom.
Some of the key events during his HSRA involvement:
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Lahore Conspiracy Case (Saunders’ Assassination)
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Central Legislative Assembly Bombing
The K*lling of British Officer John Saunders
Bhagat Singh, along with Shivaram Rajguru, plotted and executed the assassination of British police officer John Saunders in December 1928. The intent was not random violence but a response to the brutal lathi charge that killed Lala Lajpat Rai, a respected nationalist leader.
This act brought him into the national spotlight and made him a wanted man.
Central Assembly Bombing (1929)
In 1929, Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt threw non-lethal bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi to protest against repressive laws. The act was symbolic, they intentionally did not kill anyone.
While being arrested, they shouted the famous slogan:
“Inquilab Zindabad!” 🇮🇳
This slogan continues to be a symbol of protest and youth revolution in India.
Trial and Execution
Bhagat Singh used the trial as a platform to spread his ideologies and expose the cruelty of British imperialism. Despite international appeals for clemency, the British colonial government remained firm.
He was sentenced to death by hanging, along with Rajguru and Sukhdev.
Date of Death: March 23, 1931
On March 23, 1931, Bhagat Singh was executed at the Lahore Central Jail at just 23 years of age. His last words are believed to be:
“Down with British Imperialism!”
His body was secretly cremated by the British authorities at Hussainiwala on the banks of the Sutlej River.
Bhagat Singh’s Family Now
Many descendants of Bhagat Singh’s family are still active in Punjab, India. Some have engaged in politics, social work, or preserving his legacy.
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His niece, Jagmohan Kaur, and other relatives continue to oppose the commercialization of his name.
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His ancestral home has been converted into a museum and memorial in Pakistan.
Books by and About Bhagat Singh
Writings by Bhagat Singh
Bhagat Singh was not just a man of action but also of deep intellect. Even in prison, he wrote extensively. Some of his key works include:
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“Why I Am an Atheist”
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“Letters from Jail”
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“Jail Diary”
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“To Young Political Workers”
His writings reflect Marxist ideology, atheism, and strong anti-colonial sentiments.
Notable Books About Him
Here are some must-read books about Bhagat Singh:
Book Title | Author |
---|---|
“Shaheed Bhagat Singh: Select Speeches” | Bhagat Singh |
“The Martyr: Bhagat Singh’s Experiments” | Kuldip Nayar |
“Without Fear: The Life and Trial…” | Kannan M |
“Bhagat Singh: The Eternal Rebel” | Malwinder Jit Singh Waraich |
“Inquilab: Bhagat Singh on Religion…” | S. Irfan Habib |
Short Note on Bhagat Singh
Bhagat Singh (1907–1931) was a revolutionary Indian freedom fighter known for his fierce resistance to British rule. Born in Punjab, he was deeply influenced by nationalist movements and the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. He played a vital role in the HSRA and participated in the killing of John Saunders and the Central Assembly bombing. A gifted writer, he penned “Why I Am an Atheist” and other powerful essays. At age 23, he was executed by the British, becoming a martyr and an enduring symbol of courage, intellect, and patriotism.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What was the date of birth and death of Bhagat Singh?
Bhagat Singh was born on September 28, 1907, and was executed on March 23, 1931, at the age of 23.
Who was Bhagat Singh’s father?
His father’s name was Kishan Singh Sandhu, a freedom fighter who actively supported the Ghadar Movement.
Is Bhagat Singh’s family still alive?
Yes, his extended family and descendants live in Punjab, India, and continue to preserve his legacy.
What books did Bhagat Singh write?
He wrote “Why I Am an Atheist,” “Jail Diary,” and several letters and essays from prison.
Can you give a short note on Bhagat Singh?
Bhagat Singh was an Indian revolutionary and martyr who opposed British colonialism through radical activism. He was hanged at age 23 but continues to inspire generations.
Conclusion
Bhagat Singh wasn’t just a fighter with a gvn, he was a thinker, writer, and ideologue. His life was a blend of intellectual brilliance and courageous resistance. Even decades after his death, his writings, actions, and ideals remain relevant in India’s socio-political discourse.
From school textbooks to political speeches, Bhagat Singh lives on as a timeless symbol of youth power, patriotism, and fearless sacrifice. By understanding his life deeply, we honor not just a man, but a movement.