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GNDU Question Paper-2024
B.A 5
th
Semester
PUNJAB HISTORY & CULTURE
(From 1849-1947 A.D.)
Time Allowed: Three Hours Max. Marks: 50
Note: Attempt Five questions in all, selecting at least One question from each section. The Fifth
question may be attempted from any section. All questions carry equal marks.
SECTION-A
1. Describe the events and consequences of the first Anglo-Sikh War.
2. Write a note on the annexation of Punjab by the British.
SECTION-B
3. Explain the British policy towards agriculture and industry in the Punjab.
4. Explain the development of modern education at Primary, Secondary and Higher levels
in the colonial Punjab.
SECTION-C
5. Discuss the origin, principles and achievements of the Namdhari Movement.
6. Explain the origin and development of Gadhar Movement in Punjab.
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SECTION-D
7. Write a note on Gurdwara Reform Movement and its consequences.
8. Discuss the career of Bhagat Singh with special reference to his role in the
Freedom Struggle.
GNDU Answer Paper-2024
B.A 5
th
Semester
PUNJAB HISTORY & CULTURE
(From 1849-1947 A.D.)
Time Allowed: Three Hours Max. Marks: 50
Note: Attempt Five questions in all, selecting at least One question from each section. The Fifth
question may be attempted from any section. All questions carry equal marks.
SECTION-A
1. Describe the events and consequences of the first Anglo-Sikh War.
Ans: Background to the War
Death of Ranjit Singh (1839): After his death, the Sikh Empire fell into political
instability. Court intrigues, weak successors, and power struggles among nobles and
the army (the Khalsa) weakened the state.
Rise of the Khalsa Army: The Sikh army had grown powerful, disciplined, and proud.
But without strong leadership, it became restless and often dictated terms to the
Lahore Darbar (the Sikh court).
British Expansion: The British East India Company had already annexed large parts of
India. Punjab was one of the last strong independent regions. The British feared the
Sikh army, while the Sikhs feared British encroachment.
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The Sutlej Frontier: The river Sutlej separated British-controlled territory from the
Sikh Empire. Both sides fortified their positions, waiting for the other to make the
first move.
This uneasy peace was like dry tinder waiting for a spark.
Events of the First Anglo-Sikh War (18451846)
The war broke out in December 1845 and lasted until February 1846. It was marked by a
series of bloody battles.
1. Crossing of the Sutlej (December 1845)
The Sikh army, frustrated with the Lahore Darbar and suspicious of British intentions,
crossed the Sutlej River into British territory.
This was seen as an act of aggression, and the British declared war.
2. Battle of Mudki (18 December 1845)
The first major clash.
The Sikhs fought bravely, but the British had better artillery and discipline.
The battle ended with a British victory, though they suffered heavy casualties.
3. Battle of Ferozeshah (2122 December 1845)
One of the fiercest battles of the war.
The Sikhs, entrenched in strong positions, inflicted severe losses on the British.
For a moment, it seemed the British might be defeated. But reinforcements and
superior firepower turned the tide.
The British narrowly won, but at a terrible cost.
4. Battle of Aliwal (28 January 1846)
Fought near the Sutlej.
The British, under Sir Harry Smith, defeated the Sikh forces.
This victory boosted British morale and weakened Sikh confidence.
5. Battle of Sobraon (10 February 1846)
The decisive battle of the war.
The Sikhs had fortified their camp on the Sutlej.
The British launched a massive assault. After hours of brutal fighting, the Sikh
defenses collapsed.
Thousands of Sikh soldiers were killed, many drowning in the Sutlej as they tried to
retreat.
This battle effectively ended the war.
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Consequences of the First Anglo-Sikh War
The war ended with the Treaty of Lahore (March 1846) and had far-reaching consequences.
1. Loss of Territory
The Sikhs had to cede valuable territories to the British, including Jullundur Doab
(between the Beas and Sutlej rivers).
Later, under the Treaty of Amritsar, Kashmir was sold to Gulab Singh, the Dogra
ruler, for 75 lakh rupees.
2. British Control Over Punjab
Although Punjab was not fully annexed yet, the British gained significant influence.
A British Resident (political agent) was stationed in Lahore to oversee Sikh affairs.
The Sikh army was drastically reduced in size.
3. Humiliation of the Lahore Darbar
The once-proud Sikh Empire was now under British supervision.
The Lahore Darbar lost its independence in decision-making.
The young Maharaja Duleep Singh, only a child, became a puppet ruler under British
guardianship.
4. Rise of Gulab Singh
Gulab Singh, a Dogra noble, was rewarded by the British.
He became the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir, laying the foundation of the
princely state that would later play a crucial role in Indian history.
5. Prelude to the Second Anglo-Sikh War
The Sikhs were not fully subdued.
Resentment simmered among the Khalsa army and the people of Punjab.
Within three years, in 1848, the Second Anglo-Sikh War broke out, leading to the
complete annexation of Punjab in 1849.
Story Analogy
Think of the Sikh Empire as a mighty lion weakened by illness after the death of its leader.
The British were like hunters waiting for the right moment. The First Anglo-Sikh War was the
struggle of this wounded lionfierce, brave, and proudbut ultimately overwhelmed by
the hunters’ strategy and weapons.
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 Conclusion
The First Anglo-Sikh War (184546) was not just a military conflict; it was a turning point in
Indian history.
It showed the bravery and discipline of the Sikh soldiers, who fought against one of
the most powerful armies in the world.
It exposed the weaknesses of internal divisions and poor leadership in Punjab.
It marked the beginning of the end of Sikh sovereignty and the rise of British
dominance in North India.
The war ended with humiliation for the Sikhs but also left behind a legacy of courage. The
sacrifices of the Khalsa army became part of Punjab’s proud history, remembered as a time
when ordinary soldiers stood like mountains against a storm.
2. Write a note on the annexation of Punjab by the British.
Ans: Annexation of Punjab by the British
When we look back at history, Punjab in the mid-19th century seems like a land full of
contrasts. On one hand, it was the proud land of the Sikhs, known for their bravery,
discipline, and sacrifices. On the other hand, it was also a land that became the center of
one of the most decisive conquests by the British in India. The story of how Punjab, once
ruled by the great Maharaja Ranjit Singh, eventually fell into the hands of the British is not
just about wars and treaties; it is about the fall of a powerful kingdom, political intrigues,
internal weaknesses, and the unstoppable ambition of the East India Company.
To make this story more engaging, let us imagine Punjab as a grand fort. The fort is built by
Maharaja Ranjit Singh with unity, bravery, and clever diplomacy. But after his death, cracks
start appearing in its wallscracks caused by greed, infighting, and weak leadership. The
British, watching carefully from outside, wait for the right moment. Slowly and strategically,
they strikeand finally, the fort of Punjab falls into their hands in 1849.
The Glory before the Fall: Rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh
Before we understand the annexation, we must go back to Maharaja Ranjit Singh, also
called the “Lion of Punjab.” He had built a strong Sikh empire that stretched from the Sutlej
to the Khyber Pass. His army was disciplined, modern, and even trained by European
officers. Ranjit Singh was not only a warrior but also a shrewd diplomat. He knew how to
balance relations with the British, Afghans, and other neighboring powers.
During his reign (17991839), Punjab remained strong and independent. The British, though
rising in power across India, never dared to attack Punjab while Ranjit Singh was alive. They
signed the Treaty of Amritsar (1809) with him, which recognized his control over Punjab
and set the river Sutlej as the boundary with British India.
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But the real trouble began after his death in 1839. The “Lion” was gone, and with him went
the unity of the Sikh empire.
After Ranjit Singh: Chaos and Instability
Imagine a ship that loses its captain in the middle of a stormthat is exactly what happened
in Punjab after Ranjit Singh’s death. The throne of Lahore saw one king after another, but
none were strong enough to control the powerful nobility, the ambitious courtiers, and the
restless army.
His son Kharak Singh took the throne but lacked leadership skills.
He was followed by Nau Nihal Singh, who died mysteriously in an accident.
After that, palace intrigues, assassinations, and conspiracies weakened the state
further.
The Sikh army, known as the Khalsa, had grown very powerful after Ranjit Singh. But
without his strong control, the army became arrogant, undisciplined, and often interfered in
politics. Ministers and courtiers used the army to support their own ambitions, which
created more chaos.
This instability gave the British exactly what they wanted: a weak neighbor, easy to
manipulate and conquer.
The First Anglo-Sikh War (184546)
The first real clash came in 1845. By this time, tensions were already high. The British had
stationed troops along the Sutlej River, right at Punjab’s doorstep. The Sikh army, restless
and suspicious, decided to cross the river, giving the British the excuse they were waiting
for.
The First Anglo-Sikh War began. The battles were fierce because the Sikh soldiers fought
bravely, but the leadership was weak and often treacherous. Some commanders even
betrayed the Sikh side by secretly working with the British. Despite their courage, the Sikhs
lost.
The war ended with the Treaty of Lahore (1846). According to this treaty:
Punjab had to give away Jammu and Kashmir to Gulab Singh (who later became the
Dogra ruler).
A huge war indemnity was imposed.
A British Resident (political agent) was placed in Lahore, giving the British direct
influence in Punjab’s affairs.
This was the first big crack in the fort of Punjab.
The British Grip Tightens
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After the first war, Punjab was still officially independent, but in reality, it had become a
puppet under British control. The young Maharaja Dalip Singh, son of Ranjit Singh, sat on
the throne, but he was just a child. The real power was in the hands of the British Resident,
Sir Henry Lawrence, and later Lord Dalhousie.
The British also stationed their troops in Lahore and began interfering in the administration.
The Khalsa army, once the pride of Punjab, was reduced in size and humiliated. Naturally,
resentment grew among both soldiers and common people.
The Second Anglo-Sikh War (184849)
The final blow came soon. In 1848, there was a rebellion in Multan, led by Mulraj, the
governor. This revolt quickly spread and turned into a larger uprising against the British
presence in Punjab. The Khalsa soldiers, who were still angry over their earlier defeat, joined
the revolt with renewed passion.
The British responded with full force. The Second Anglo-Sikh War broke out. This time, the
British were determined not just to defeat Punjab but to completely take it over. Battles like
Chillianwala (1849) showed the ferocity of Sikh resistance, but the British had better
resources, disciplined leadership, and advanced weapons. Eventually, the decisive Battle of
Gujarat (1849) sealed the fate of Punjab.
The Sikh forces were crushed, and the once-proud Sikh empire came to an end.
Annexation of Punjab (1849)
In March 1849, Lord Dalhousie, the Governor-General of India, officially announced the
Annexation of Punjab. The kingdom of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, which had once stood as the
last great independent power in India, was now absorbed into the British Empire.
Dalip Singh, the young Maharaja, was dethroned and sent away to England. The famous
Koh-i-Noor diamond, a symbol of Punjab’s glory, was taken by the British and presented to
Queen Victoria. The Sikh army was disbanded, and Punjab was placed under a Board of
Administration, headed by British officers like Henry Lawrence and John Lawrence.
Why Did Punjab Fall?
To understand this more deeply, we must ask: Why did a strong kingdom like Punjab
collapse so quickly after Ranjit Singh’s death? The reasons are clear:
1. Weak Successors None of Ranjit Singh’s heirs had his leadership qualities.
2. Internal Rivalries Nobles, courtiers, and even the army were busy fighting among
themselves.
3. Power of the Army The Khalsa army became uncontrollable and often acted
without discipline.
4. British Strategy The British used diplomacy, intrigue, and war to slowly weaken
Punjab.
5. Treachery Some Sikh leaders betrayed their own kingdom for personal gains.
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Consequences of the Annexation
The annexation of Punjab was not just the end of a kingdom; it had long-lasting effects:
End of Sikh Sovereignty: For the first time in centuries, Punjab lost its independence.
British Rule: Punjab became a vital part of the British Empire, supplying soldiers who
later played a crucial role in the Revolt of 1857 and other wars.
Economic Impact: Heavy taxation and British-style administration changed the
traditional economy.
Cultural Impact: Western education, railways, and new laws came, but so did
cultural disruption.
Psychological Blow: For the Sikhs, who had been the defenders of Punjab, the loss
was a deep wound.
The Story in Reflection
The annexation of Punjab is a tragic but powerful story. It shows how even the strongest
empires can fall if unity is lost and leadership is weak. Maharaja Ranjit Singh had built a
shining legacy, but after him, greed and disunity opened the doors for conquest. The British
did not win Punjab in a single battlethey won it step by step, using patience, strategy, and
exploitation of internal weaknesses.
SECTION-B
3. Explain the British policy towards agriculture and industry in the Punjab.
Ans: British Policy Towards Agriculture in Punjab
1. Land Revenue Settlements
After annexation, the British introduced new land revenue systems.
Traditionally, land in Punjab was cultivated by peasants who had customary rights.
The British, however, wanted fixed revenue to fill their coffers.
They carried out detailed surveys and fixed land revenue demands, often very high.
This meant peasants had to pay cash taxes, regardless of whether crops failed or
succeeded.
Impact: Farmers became dependent on moneylenders to pay taxes. Debt became a
permanent feature of rural Punjab.
2. Commercialization of Agriculture
The British encouraged farmers to grow cash crops like cotton, indigo, sugarcane,
and wheat for export.
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Punjab’s fertile soil and canal irrigation made it ideal for large-scale production.
But this shift meant less focus on food crops for local consumption.
Impact: Farmers were tied to global markets. If prices fell internationally, peasants suffered,
but the British still collected revenue.
3. Canal Colonies
One of the most striking British policies was the creation of canal colonies in western
Punjab.
Vast barren lands were irrigated by building canals (like the Upper Bari Doab Canal,
Chenab Canal).
These lands were settled by peasants from crowded districts.
The British gained loyalty from these settlers, who became prosperous wheat and
cotton growers.
Impact: Punjab became the breadbasket of India, supplying grain to the British army and
markets. But it also tied Punjab’s economy firmly to colonial needs.
4. Role of Moneylenders
With high taxes and cash payments, peasants borrowed heavily from moneylenders
(banias).
When they failed to repay, land was auctioned.
Many peasants lost their ancestral lands and became tenants or laborers.
Impact: Rural indebtedness became a chronic problem, leading to resentment and later
agrarian unrest.
5. Agricultural Prosperity with Dependence
On the surface, Punjab’s agriculture flourished under canals and commercialization.
But beneath, farmers were trapped in cycles of debt, dependency, and vulnerability
to market fluctuations.
The prosperity was not for the peasantit was for the empire.
British Policy Towards Industry in Punjab
While agriculture was reorganized to serve British needs, industry in Punjab was deliberately
suppressed.
1. Decline of Traditional Crafts
Punjab had a rich tradition of handicrafts: shawl weaving in Amritsar, metalwork in
Lahore, woodwork in Hoshiarpur.
British manufactured goods, especially textiles, flooded the market.
Local artisans could not compete with cheap machine-made imports.
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Impact: Thousands of artisans lost their livelihoods. The proud craft centers of Punjab
declined.
2. No Promotion of Modern Industry
Unlike agriculture, the British did not invest in developing large-scale industry in
Punjab.
Their policy was clear: India would supply raw materials and buy finished goods from
Britain.
Punjab’s cotton and wheat were exported, but textile mills or factories were not
encouraged locally.
Impact: Punjab remained primarily agrarian, with little industrial base.
3. Railways and Infrastructure
The British did build railways, roads, and telegraphs in Punjab.
But these were not for local developmentthey were meant to transport raw
materials quickly to ports and move troops efficiently.
For example, wheat from canal colonies could now reach Bombay port for export.
Impact: Infrastructure served colonial interests, not indigenous industry.
4. Emergence of Small-Scale Industries
Some small industries did emerge: flour mills, ginning factories, and breweries.
But these were limited and often owned by British capitalists.
Indian entrepreneurs faced restrictions and lack of support.
5. Punjab as a Military and Agricultural Base
The British saw Punjab less as an industrial hub and more as a supplier of soldiers
and grain.
Punjab became the “sword arm” of the British Indian Army and the “granary of
India.”
Impact: Industrial backwardness was a deliberate colonial design.
Consequences of British Policy
For Agriculture:
Punjab became agriculturally prosperous but peasants were burdened with debt.
Canal colonies created a new class of loyal farmers but also deepened dependence
on colonial markets.
Rural unrest grew, leading to movements like the Pagri Sambhal Jatta movement
(1907).
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For Industry:
Traditional crafts declined, leading to unemployment among artisans.
Punjab lagged behind in industrial development compared to Bengal or Bombay.
The economy became one-sidedstrong in agriculture but weak in industry.
Story Analogy
Think of Punjab as a tree. Before the British, it had many branchesagriculture, crafts,
trade. The British watered only one branchagriculturebecause it gave them fruit (grain,
cotton). But they cut off the other branchesindustry and craftsso the tree grew
lopsided. It looked green, but it was unbalanced and dependent on the gardener’s will.
 Conclusion
The British policy towards agriculture and industry in Punjab was shaped by one motive:
colonial profit.
In agriculture, they built canals, encouraged cash crops, and created canal colonies.
This made Punjab a prosperous agricultural region, but peasants bore the burden of
taxes, debt, and dependence.
In industry, they suppressed traditional crafts and discouraged modern factories,
ensuring Punjab remained a supplier of raw materials and a consumer of British
goods.
The result was a paradox: Punjab became both rich and poorrich in grain fields, poor in
industrial growth; rich in exports, poor in peasant welfare.
This legacy shaped Punjab’s economy for decades. Even after independence, Punjab
remained primarily agrarian, with the scars of colonial policies still visible.
4. Explain the development of modern education at Primary, Secondary and Higher levels
in the colonial Punjab.
Ans: Development of Modern Education at Primary, Secondary and Higher Levels in
Colonial Punjab
A New Beginning: A Child’s Dream
Imagine a small child in a village of Punjab in the mid-19th century. He wakes up early, helps
his father in the fields, and then sits under a tree where the village priest teaches him to
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read a few verses of scriptures. This was education for most children in Punjab before the
British camesimple, limited, and connected to religious texts.
But soon, winds of change began to blow. The British, after annexing Punjab in 1849,
realized that education could be a powerful tool—not just to “civilize” in their eyes, but also
to create clerks, teachers, and officers who would run their administration. That little child
under the tree was now to step into a new kind of classroom, with benches, blackboards,
and a syllabus that mixed both traditional and modern subjects.
This is how the story of modern education in colonial Punjab unfolds, step by step
beginning with Primary, growing into Secondary, and then flourishing at the Higher levels.
1. Primary Education in Colonial Punjab
The Early Scene
In the beginning, Punjab already had indigenous schoolspathshalas, maktabs, and
gurukulswhere children learned basics of reading, writing, arithmetic, and religious
knowledge. But these were informal, often held in temples, mosques, or under a tree. The
British did not destroy them completely but tried to reform them in line with their own
policies.
British Initiatives
After annexation (1849): The British administration took education as a serious
project. Officials like John Lawrence believed that literacy would help make Punjab
“modern.”
Education Despatch of 1854 (Wood’s Despatch): This landmark policy laid the
foundation for modern schooling. It encouraged the setting up of schools in every
district and emphasized primary education for the masses.
Primary Schools in Villages
The British encouraged village schools but with standardized textbooks,
examinations, and government supervision.
Subjects taught included reading, writing, arithmetic, and moral lessons. Slowly,
English words began to enter these classrooms.
Vernacular Languages
One of the striking features was the use of Punjabi, Urdu, and Hindi at the primary stage,
depending on the community. This allowed children to learn in their mother tongue while
still being prepared for a higher English-based education later.
Funding and Spread
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Primary schools were often supported by local funds (raised from taxes and
donations).
By the end of the 19th century, thousands of children were attending these schools,
though the percentage of girls was still very low.
So, our little child who once sat under the tree was now learning arithmetic tables,
geography basics, and even the English alphabet in a formal school building.
2. Secondary Education in Colonial Punjab
As children grew older, there was a need for schools beyond the primary level. This gave rise
to secondary education.
Expansion of Schools
The British established middle schools and high schools in towns and cities.
The first high schools started in places like Lahore, Amritsar, and Rawalpindi.
These schools acted as a bridge between the village-level primary education and the
elite colleges.
Subjects and Curriculum
Along with traditional subjects, science, history, mathematics, and English literature
were introduced.
English became the medium of instruction in higher classes, as it was considered
essential for government jobs.
Role of Missionaries
Christian missionaries also played a very important role:
They set up mission schools that focused on discipline, Western values, and English
education.
While they aimed at spreading Christianity, many Indian families sent their children
there for quality education.
Secondary Education and Jobs
Secondary education was not just about knowledge; it was a ladder for employment. A
matriculation certificate could open doors to clerical jobs in government offices, railways,
and courts. This made high school education highly attractive to the middle class.
Social Impact
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A new educated class of Punjabis emergedteachers, clerks, lawyers, and
reformerswho became the backbone of both colonial administration and later
nationalist movements.
Yet, education was still uneven. Urban boys had better chances, while rural children,
especially girls, lagged behind.
3. Higher Education in Colonial Punjab
Now we come to the crown jewelcolleges and universitieswhich completely
transformed Punjab’s intellectual landscape.
Early Colleges
The first major step was the opening of Government College, Lahore (1864), which
became a centre of excellence.
Missionaries established Forman Christian College (1864) in Lahore, which produced
many future leaders.
DAV College (1886) was set up by Arya Samaj reformers, showing how Indian
communities also participated in spreading modern education.
Khalsa College, Amritsar (1892), was established by the Singh Sabha movement to
preserve Sikh identity while providing modern learning.
Punjab University
The biggest milestone came with the founding of Punjab University, Lahore (1882).
It was modeled on the University of Calcutta but with some reforms to suit Punjab.
The University became the hub of higher education, affiliating colleges, conducting
examinations, and awarding degrees.
Curriculum and Scope
Higher education covered subjects like English, History, Political Science, Philosophy,
Mathematics, and later Natural Sciences. Engineering and Medicine also gradually entered
the scene.
Women’s Higher Education
At first, women were largely excluded. But by the late 19th and early 20th centuries,
colleges for women began to appear:
Kinnaird College for Women, Lahore (1913) became a landmark institution.
Other efforts were made by reform movements to educate girls within cultural
frameworks.
Impact of Higher Education
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It created a modern intelligentsialawyers, doctors, professors, journalists, and
political leaders.
These educated elites played a crucial role in social reform movements (Arya Samaj,
Singh Sabha, Brahmo Samaj) and in political awakening leading to the freedom
struggle.
4. Challenges and Limitations
Even though modern education expanded, it was not without flaws:
Limited Reach: Most villages remained untouched; only urban centers benefitted.
Low Female Participation: Women’s education lagged far behind men’s.
Job-Oriented: Education was shaped more to produce clerks than to encourage
creativity.
Communal Divide: Urdu, Hindi, and Punjabi debates in schools sometimes deepened
communal identities.
5. Legacy of Modern Education in Colonial Punjab
By the time India approached independence in 1947, Punjab had developed a fairly strong
network of schools and colleges. The system:
Produced a generation of leaders who questioned colonial rule.
Created reformers who fought against social evils like caste discrimination and
gender inequality.
Brought Western science, literature, and ideas into Punjab, blending them with rich
local traditions.
The little child who once studied under a tree had now grown into a lawyer arguing in
courts, a teacher shaping minds, or even a freedom fighter raising his voice against
colonialism. Education in Punjab had truly traveled a long journey under British rule.
Conclusion
The story of modern education in colonial Punjab is like the story of a seed turning into a
tree. The primary schools were the roots, giving basic literacy to children. The secondary
schools were the trunk, strong and steady, carrying students upward. And the colleges and
universities were the branches, spreading wide and bearing the fruit of modern knowledge.
Though limited and uneven, this education system changed Punjab forever. It not only
created clerks and officers for the British Raj but also nurtured thinkers, reformers, and
leaders who ultimately played a role in challenging the Raj itself.
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SECTION-C
5. Discuss the origin, principles and achievements of the Namdhari Movement.
Ans: 󷊆󷊇 Origin of the Namdhari Movement
1. Historical Background
After the annexation of Punjab in 1849, the Sikh community felt leaderless and
humiliated.
The Khalsa army had been disbanded, Sikh institutions weakened, and British
influence spread into every corner of life.
Social evils like child marriage, caste discrimination, dowry, and alcoholism were
widespread.
In this climate, people longed for a revival of Sikh values and a return to discipline.
2. Guru Ram Singh (18161885)
Born in Bhaini Sahib (Ludhiana district), Ram Singh was deeply spiritual from
childhood.
He became a disciple of Balak Singh, who had already started a reformist current
within Sikhism.
In 1857, the year of the great revolt, Ram Singh formally founded the Namdhari sect.
3. Why “Namdhari” or “Kuka”?
The followers were called Namdharis because they emphasized the repetition of
God’s Name (Naam).
They were also called Kukas because of their loud, shrill style of reciting hymns,
which sounded like cries or “kuks.”
Thus, the Namdhari Movement was born as both a spiritual and social reform, but it soon
grew into a political challenge to British authority.
󷈷󷈸󷈹󷈺󷈻󷈼 Principles of the Namdhari Movement
Guru Ram Singh laid down strict principles for his followers. These principles were both
religious and social, aimed at creating a disciplined, pure, and self-reliant community.
1. Purity of Life
Followers were expected to live simple, honest lives.
They wore white homespun clothes, symbolizing purity.
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They avoided luxury and extravagance.
2. Strict Morality
No consumption of meat, alcohol, or intoxicants.
No acceptance of dowry in marriages.
Child marriage was discouraged.
3. Equality and Brotherhood
The Namdharis rejected caste distinctions.
They promoted inter-dining and inter-marriage within the community.
Women were given respect and a higher status compared to prevailing customs.
4. Religious Discipline
Daily recitation of God’s Name (Naam Japna).
Congregational prayers and collective singing of hymns.
Complete faith in the living Guru (Ram Singh and his successors).
5. Swadeshi and Self-Reliance
Long before Gandhi, Guru Ram Singh preached the boycott of British goods.
Followers were encouraged to spin their own cloth and use Indian products.
This was both an economic and political act of resistance.
6. Non-Cooperation with British Rule
Namdharis were told not to use British courts, schools, or postal services.
They were to build their own parallel institutions.
This was an early form of non-cooperation, decades before Gandhi made it a
national movement.
󷡉󷡊󷡋󷡌󷡍󷡎 Achievements of the Namdhari Movement
Though the Namdhari Movement faced brutal suppression, its achievements were
significant and long-lasting.
1. Religious and Social Reform
The movement revived Sikh discipline and purity at a time when it was declining.
It fought against social evils like dowry, child marriage, caste discrimination, and
alcoholism.
It gave women a more dignified role in society.
2. Economic Self-Reliance
By promoting Swadeshi, the Namdharis encouraged local crafts and industries.
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They reduced dependence on British goods, striking at the roots of colonial
economic exploitation.
3. Political Awakening
The Namdhari Movement was one of the earliest organized challenges to British rule
in Punjab.
Guru Ram Singh envisioned a free India where Indians would govern themselves.
His call for boycott and non-cooperation laid the foundation for later nationalist
strategies.
4. Martyrdom and Resistance
In 1872, some Namdharis attacked butchers in Amritsar and Raikot to protest cow
slaughter.
The British responded with extreme cruelty: 65 Namdharis were blown from
cannons at Malerkotla.
This brutal act shocked Punjab but also inspired future generations with the spirit of
martyrdom.
5. Legacy for the Freedom Struggle
The Namdhari emphasis on Swadeshi, boycott, and non-cooperation directly
influenced later leaders like Gandhi.
Their courage and sacrifices kept alive the flame of resistance in Punjab, inspiring
movements like the Ghadar Party and Akali struggles.
󼩺󼩻 Story Analogy
Think of the Namdhari Movement as a lamp lit in a dark room. The room was Punjab under
British rulefilled with despair, corruption, and loss of identity. Guru Ram Singh lit the lamp
of discipline, purity, and resistance. The light was not strong enough to drive away all the
darkness immediately, but it showed the path forward. Later leaders, from Gandhi to the
Akalis, carried that lamp and turned it into a torch that lit up the whole nation.
󹶓󹶔󹶕󹶖󹶗󹶘 Conclusion
The Namdhari Movement was far more than a small religious sect. It was a multi-
dimensional movement that combined:
Religious revival (return to Sikh discipline and Naam Simran),
Social reform (fight against dowry, caste, child marriage, and intoxicants),
Economic resistance (promotion of Swadeshi and boycott of British goods), and
Political awakening (non-cooperation with colonial institutions).
Its achievements were not measured in immediate victories but in the seeds it planted. The
Namdharis showed that resistance could be moral, disciplined, and rooted in everyday life.
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They demonstrated that even ordinary villagers, dressed in simple white, could challenge
the might of the British Empire.
In the grand story of India’s freedom struggle, the Namdhari Movement stands as an early
chapterone that combined faith with action, purity with protest, and spirituality with
nationalism. It reminds us that revolutions are not always born in battlefields; sometimes,
they begin in prayer halls, in spinning wheels, and in the quiet determination of people who
refuse to bow down.
6. Explain the origin and development of Gadhar Movement in Punjab.
Ans: The Origin and Development of the Ghadar Movement in Punjab
When we think of India’s struggle for freedom, we often picture leaders addressing huge
gatherings, peaceful protests filling the streets, or fiery speeches inside the legislative
assemblies. But there is another chapterone less discussed yet extremely powerfulthat
begins not in India, but thousands of miles away, in the farms, factories, and streets of
North America. This was the story of the Ghadar Movement, a revolutionary wave that
carried the voices of Indians living abroad, and later, swept back into Punjab with explosive
energy.
To understand how the Ghadar Movement began and developed, let’s imagine ourselves in
the early 20th century, when Punjab was alive with both hope and sorrow.
The Seeds of the Ghadar Movement
At the turn of the 20th century, Punjab had already seen immense transformation under
British rule. On one side, modern education, railways, and canals had opened new
opportunities. But on the other, heavy taxation, loss of land, and constant humiliation by
colonial officers created deep resentment among Punjabis. Many young men of Punjab,
especially Sikhs and peasants, looked for opportunities abroad because the British Indian
army could not absorb everyone, and farming alone could not sustain their families.
So, thousands migratedfirst to Canada, then to the United States, especially the West
Coast. They became farm workers in California’s fields, lumber workers in Oregon, and
laborers in British Columbia. These migrants carried strong arms and hardworking spirits,
but they also carried the pain of discrimination.
Life abroad was not easy. Indians were treated as outsiders, insulted with racist slurs, and
denied basic rights. They were not allowed to own land, faced strict immigration rules, and
were often pushed into hard, low-paying jobs. The irony was unbearable: here were men
from India, serving in British regiments, fighting wars in distant lands for the empire, and yet
in countries under the same British crown, they were treated worse than second-class
citizens.
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This frustration soon turned into political awakening. It was in this soil of discontent that the
seeds of the Ghadar Movement were planted.
The Spark: Birth of the Ghadar Party
The real story began in 1913 when a group of Indians gathered in San Francisco and formed
the Ghadar Party. The word “Ghadar” itself means “revolt” or “rebellion.” This was no
ordinary political partyit was a call to arms, a revolutionary dream that spoke directly to
the hearts of Indians, especially Punjabis.
The leaders of this movement were men of fiery courage and deep conviction. Figures like
Lala Har Dayal, Sohan Singh Bhakna, Kartar Singh Sarabha, and Bhai Parmanand became
central to its growth. Most of them were ordinary migrants, but what made them
extraordinary was their determination to overthrow the British rule through armed struggle.
One of the most powerful tools they used was their newspaper, “Ghadar,” printed in
multiple languagesPunjabi, Urdu, Hindi, and even English. This newspaper was not just ink
on paperit was fire. It carried revolutionary poems, articles, and speeches, openly
declaring that India must be freed from British chains, and that the only way was through
rebellion. Copies of this paper traveled secretly from America to Canada, to Hong Kong, to
Singapore, and finally into the villages of Punjab. Wherever it reached, it sparked the
imagination of young Indians.
Why Punjab Became the Center
Now, one may ask: why did the Ghadar leaders turn their eyes towards Punjab in particular?
The answer lies in Punjab’s history and character. Punjabis, especially Sikhs, had a strong
tradition of military service. They were disciplined, brave, and many had already served in
the British Indian army. Moreover, Punjab had been the land of warriorshome to
memories of Sikh resistance against Mughals and Afghans.
So, when the Ghadar leaders decided to ignite a revolution in India, Punjab was the natural
choice. They believed that once Punjab rose, the fire of freedom would spread across the
subcontinent.
The World War I Opportunity
A major turning point came in 1914, when World War I broke out. The Ghadar leaders saw
this as the perfect opportunity. Britain was heavily engaged in the war in Europe, and its
forces were stretched thin. If Indians revolted at this time, the British would be unable to
control them.
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So, hundreds of Ghadar members left their jobs and homes in North America and sailed
back to India, determined to raise an armed rebellion. Imagine the scene: ships arriving at
Calcutta and Bombay, filled not with ordinary travelers, but with fiery patriots carrying
revolutionary literature, secret instructions, and dreams of freedom.
In Punjab, the returning Ghadarites fanned out into villages, spreading their message: “Now
is the time! Take up arms! Drive out the British!”
The Planned Revolt and Its Collapse
The plan was ambitious. The Ghadarites wanted to incite Indian soldiers in the British army
to mutiny, just as in 1857. They believed that if the soldiers rose, the entire nation would
follow. Secret meetings were held in villages and cantonments. Leaders like Kartar Singh
Sarabha, just a teenager of 19, played a crucial role in motivating people.
However, the British intelligence network was strong and well-prepared. The colonial
government had spies everywhere, and soon, the plans of the Ghadarites were leaked.
Arrests began, weapons were seized, and leaders were thrown into jail even before the
revolt could begin.
By February 1915, the planned uprising had largely collapsed. Many soldiers who were
supposed to join the mutiny hesitated, fearing consequences. Others betrayed the
movement to British officers. The dream of an immediate armed revolution was crushed.
The Aftermath: Trials and Martyrdom
The failure of the revolt did not mean the end of the Ghadar Movement. Instead, it entered
a tragic yet glorious chapter. Hundreds of Ghadar leaders were arrested, tried, and given
harsh punishments. Some were executed, while many others were sentenced to life
imprisonment in the notorious Cellular Jail of Andaman.
One of the most inspiring martyrs was Kartar Singh Sarabha, the young revolutionary who
faced the gallows with a smile. His courage became a source of inspiration for future
generations, including Bhagat Singh, who considered him his hero.
Though the movement could not achieve its immediate goal of overthrowing British rule, it
left behind a spirit of defiance that refused to die.
The Larger Impact of the Ghadar Movement
Even though the Ghadar Movement did not succeed in triggering a mass revolution, its
impact was far-reaching.
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1. It internationalized India’s struggle for freedom. For the first time, Indians living
abroad became active participants in the fight against British colonialism.
2. It inspired future revolutionaries. The sacrifice of Ghadarites like Kartar Singh
Sarabha deeply influenced younger leaders such as Bhagat Singh and
Chandrashekhar Azad.
3. It shook the British confidence. The colonial rulers realized that Indians, whether at
home or abroad, would not quietly accept slavery forever.
4. It laid the foundation for later movements. The spirit of armed resistance continued
through the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) and other
revolutionary groups.
A Story of Fire and Faith
If we look back, the Ghadar Movement was not merely about guns or plans of mutiny. It was
about faithfaith in freedom, faith in the courage of ordinary men and women, and faith
that one day India would rise from the chains of slavery.
It was a story written by migrant laborers who carried the sweat of farms in America, the
pain of humiliation abroad, and the undying love for their motherland. They may have lived
far away from Punjab, but their hearts never left its soil.
Conclusion
The origin and development of the Ghadar Movement in Punjab show us how revolutions
are not born in comfort, but in struggle and injustice. From the farms of California to the
villages of Punjab, this movement grew as a fire of resistance, though it was temporarily
extinguished by the British.
The sacrifices of the Ghadarites remind us that freedom is never freeit is earned by those
who dare to dream and dare to act. And though the Ghadar Movement did not overthrow
the British, it became one of the most inspiring and heroic chapters of India’s independence
story.
SECTION-D
7. Write a note on Gurdwara Reform Movement and its consequences.
Ans: Origin of the Gurdwara Reform Movement
1. Condition of Gurdwaras under Mahants
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During the 18th and 19th centuries, many Sikh shrines had fallen under the control
of hereditary custodians called mahants.
These mahants often lived luxurious lives, misused donations, and allowed practices
like idol worship, liquor consumption, and immoral activities inside gurdwaras.
This was a direct violation of Sikh teachings, which emphasized simplicity, equality,
and devotion.
2. British Policy
After annexing Punjab in 1849, the British supported these mahants because they
were loyal to colonial authority.
By keeping gurdwaras in the hands of pliant mahants, the British could prevent
gurdwaras from becoming centers of political resistance.
3. Rise of Sikh Reformist Spirit
The late 19th century saw the rise of the Singh Sabha Movement, which aimed to
restore Sikhism to its original purity.
This reformist spirit inspired Sikhs to demand that gurdwaras be freed from corrupt
mahants and managed by the Sikh community itself.
Thus, by the early 1920s, the stage was set for a mass movement.
The Course of the Movement
1. Akali Dal and SGPC
In 1920, the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (SGPC) was formed to
manage gurdwaras.
The Akali Dal, a political wing, was also created to mobilize Sikhs for reform.
Together, they launched peaceful agitations to take control of gurdwaras from
mahants.
2. Peaceful Morchas (Agitations)
Sikhs organized morchas (campaigns) where volunteers would march peacefully to
gurdwaras, demand control, and offer prayers.
They followed strict discipline: no violence, only non-violent protest, even in the face
of brutal repression.
3. Key Incidents
Nankana Sahib Massacre (1921): At the birthplace of Guru Nanak, mahant Narain
Das ordered his men to fire upon peaceful reformers. Hundreds of Sikhs were killed.
This tragedy shocked the Sikh community but also strengthened their resolve.
Guru ka Bagh Morcha (1922): Sikhs peacefully tried to collect firewood from
gurdwara land. The British police brutally beat them, but the Sikhs endured without
retaliation. This non-violent resistance won admiration across India.
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Jaito Morcha (192325): When the British removed the Sikh ruler of Nabha, the
Akalis launched a protest. Thousands courted arrest, showing the depth of Sikh
commitment.
4. Non-Violence as a Strategy
The movement was remarkable for its discipline. Volunteers, called Akali jathas,
would march singing hymns, ready to face lathis and bullets without raising a hand in
violence.
This moral strength gave the movement legitimacy and respect.
Consequences of the Gurdwara Reform Movement
The movement had far-reaching consequences, not just for Sikhs but for India’s freedom
struggle as a whole.
1. Liberation of Gurdwaras
The most direct achievement was the transfer of control of major Sikh shrines from
mahants to the Sikh community.
In 1925, the Gurdwara Act was passed, legally recognizing the SGPC as the body to
manage gurdwaras.
This restored dignity and purity to Sikh religious institutions.
2. Rise of Sikh Political Consciousness
The movement gave Sikhs a sense of unity and political strength.
The Akali Dal emerged as a powerful political force representing Sikh interests.
3. Contribution to Indian Nationalism
The non-violent methods of the Akalis paralleled Gandhi’s strategy in the national
movement.
Their courage and sacrifice inspired other Indians.
The movement showed that religious reform could merge with political awakening.
4. Martyrdom and Inspiration
The sacrifices at Nankana Sahib and Guru ka Bagh became symbols of Sikh bravery
and devotion.
These stories inspired future generations to fight for justice and freedom.
5. Challenge to British Authority
The British had hoped to control Punjab by supporting mahants.
Instead, the movement turned gurdwaras into centers of resistance.
The British were forced to concede, showing the power of mass non-violent struggle.
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6. Strengthening Sikh Identity
By cleansing gurdwaras of corrupt practices, the movement reinforced Sikh identity
and values.
It revived the spirit of the Khalsa and reconnected Sikhs with their Gurus’ teachings.
Story Analogy
Think of the gurdwaras as gardens planted by the Gurus. Over time, weeds (corruption,
misuse, British interference) had overrun them. The Gurdwara Reform Movement was like a
group of determined gardenersthe Akaliswho, with patience and sacrifice, cleared the
weeds and restored the gardens to their original beauty.
 Conclusion
The Gurdwara Reform Movement (1920s) was one of the most significant religious and
political movements in Punjab’s history.
It began as a struggle to free Sikh shrines from corrupt mahants but soon became a
symbol of resistance against colonial rule.
Through peaceful agitations, immense sacrifices, and unshakable discipline, Sikhs
reclaimed their gurdwaras and their dignity.
The movement not only purified Sikh religious life but also strengthened Sikh
political identity and contributed to India’s broader freedom struggle.
In the end, the Gurdwara Reform Movement reminds us that true reform is not just about
buildings or institutionsit is about people reclaiming their faith, their rights, and their self-
respect. The sacrifices of those who marched, sang hymns, and faced bullets without fear
continue to echo in the history of Punjab as a testament to the power of faith and non-
violent resistance.
8. Discuss the career of Bhagat Singh with special reference to his role in the
Freedom Struggle.
Ans: The Career of Bhagat Singh with Special Reference to His Role in the Freedom
Struggle
History often remembers kings and emperors, but sometimes, it is a young man with no
throne, no crown, and no army who captures the soul of a nation. Such was Bhagat Singh
a boy from a small village in Punjab who grew into one of the brightest flames of India’s
freedom struggle. His life was short, his years of active political work even shorter, but his
courage, clarity of thought, and sacrifice turned him into a legend.
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Let’s walk through his career as if we are flipping through the chapters of an inspiring
book—each chapter revealing how an ordinary boy became the immortal “Shaheed-e-
Azam” of India.
Chapter One: A Boyhood Marked by Freedom’s Fire
Bhagat Singh was born on 28th September 1907 in the village of Banga, Lyallpur district
(now in Pakistan). Freedom was already in the air when he was born. His family had a strong
revolutionary backgroundhis uncles Ajit Singh and Swarn Singh were active in political
struggles against the British. His father, Kishan Singh, too, was deeply involved in nationalist
activities.
It is said that when Bhagat Singh was barely a child, he would hear stories of the Ghadar
Party, the sacrifices of martyrs, and the constant tension between Indians and the British
rulers. For him, freedom was not just an abstract ideait was the living, breathing
atmosphere of his household.
A popular story goes that as a child, when asked to plant trees in his school, Bhagat Singh
went and planted guns made of wood instead, saying he wanted to “grow weapons to fight
the British.” This playful act revealed a glimpse of the fire already burning inside him.
Chapter Two: The Jallianwala Bagh Tragedy and Its Impact
The year 1919 was a turning point, not just for Punjab, but for young Bhagat Singh. The
Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, where hundreds of unarmed Indians were shot dead by General
Dyer in Amritsar, shook him to the core. He was only 12 years old at the time, yet the
gruesome stories of innocent men, women, and children dying without warning stayed with
him forever.
The very next day, he reportedly visited the Jallianwala Bagh site and collected soil stained
with blood, carrying it home as a reminder of what the British had done. For him, this was
no longer about politicsit was about justice, honor, and the soul of the nation.
Chapter Three: The Student and the Rising Nationalist
Bhagat Singh grew up during a time when India’s political environment was heating up.
Mahatma Gandhi had launched the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920, calling upon
Indians to boycott British goods, schools, and offices. Bhagat Singh, still a schoolboy,
responded with full enthusiasm. He burned his government school books and foreign
clothes, declaring that he wanted to support swadeshi (Indian-made goods).
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However, when Gandhi suddenly called off the movement in 1922 after the Chauri Chaura
incident, Bhagat Singh felt deeply disappointed. He admired Gandhi’s sincerity but also
realized that India’s freedom might need something more forceful than peaceful protests.
This was when he started drifting toward revolutionary politics.
Chapter Four: Entry into Revolutionary Circles
As he grew older, Bhagat Singh became part of secret student groups and began reading
voraciously. He devoured books on socialism, anarchism, Marxism, and the lives of
revolutionaries around the world. He was particularly inspired by the Irish freedom fighters
and Russian revolutionaries.
He soon joined the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA), a revolutionary group
committed to overthrowing British rule by force. Later, under his influence, this organization
was renamed the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA), which combined the
dream of independence with the dream of a socialist society.
Bhagat Singh wasn’t just a man of action—he was a thinker too. He believed that freedom
should not only mean the end of British rule but also the end of exploitation of the poor by
the rich.
Chapter Five: The Turning Point—Lala Lajpat Rai’s Death
In 1928, a huge wave of protest swept India against the Simon Commission, a British
committee that came to India without a single Indian member. In Lahore, Lala Lajpat Rai, a
respected nationalist leader, led a peaceful protest. During this protest, the police brutally
lathi-charged the crowd, and Lajpat Rai was badly injured. Within a few weeks, he died.
This incident ignited a storm in Bhagat Singh’s heart. He vowed to avenge Lala Lajpat Rai’s
death. Along with his comrades Chandrashekhar Azad, Rajguru, and Sukhdev, he planned
the assassination of James A. Scott, the police officer responsible for the lathi charge.
However, due to mistaken identity, they shot J.P. Saunders, another police officer, instead.
This was Bhagat Singh’s first major revolutionary act, and it catapulted him into the
spotlight. Posters declaring “Saunders is dead—Lala Lajpat Rai is avenged” appeared
overnight, and the name Bhagat Singh became known across Punjab.
Chapter Six: The Central Assembly Bombing
Bhagat Singh and his comrades knew that just killing officers was not enough. They wanted
to send a message to the entire country. In 1929, the British government introduced
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repressive laws to silence nationalists. To protest this, Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt
decided to throw bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi.
It is crucial to note that these bombs were not meant to kill but to make noise. As their
famous slogan said: “Bombs and pistols do not make a revolution, the sword of revolution is
sharpened on the whetting stone of ideas.”
After throwing the bombs, they did not run away. Instead, they shouted slogans like
“Inquilab Zindabad!” (Long Live the Revolution) and willingly surrendered to the police. For
them, the trial was a stage to spread their revolutionary message.
Chapter Seven: The Trial and Writings
The trial of Bhagat Singh became one of the most sensational episodes in India’s freedom
struggle. Instead of defending himself, he used the courtroom as a platform to explain his
vision. His writings during this time, such as “Why I Am an Atheist” and “The Philosophy of
the Bomb”, revealed a sharp mind that thought deeply about freedom, justice, and the role
of sacrifice.
For Bhagat Singh, freedom was not just political independence but also social equality. He
dreamed of a nation where the peasants and workers would not be exploited, and where
religious divisions would not tear people apart.
Chapter Eight: The Martyrdom
The British government feared Bhagat Singh’s growing popularity. Despite massive protests,
petitions, and appeals for clemency from leaders across India (and even abroad), the
colonial rulers were determined to make an example out of him.
On 23rd March 1931, at the age of just 23, Bhagat Singh, along with Rajguru and Sukhdev,
was executed in the Lahore Central Jail. The news spread like wildfire. People wept openly,
and the entire nation erupted in grief and anger. To many, his death was not the endit
was the birth of a legend.
Chapter Nine: Bhagat Singh’s Role in the Freedom Struggle
Now let’s pause and reflect—what was Bhagat Singh’s role in India’s struggle for
independence?
1. He turned youth into active participants. His courage inspired countless young
Indians to rise against British rule. He showed that even students and workers could
shake an empire.
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2. He redefined nationalism. For him, freedom was not just about removing the
Britishit was about building a just and equal society.
3. He used sacrifice as a weapon. By openly embracing death, he turned the gallows
into a stage of revolution. His martyrdom made him immortal in people’s hearts.
4. He gave us slogans that still live today. “Inquilab Zindabad” continues to echo in
rallies and protests even in modern India.
Conclusion: The Eternal Flame
Bhagat Singh lived only 23 years, yet his story continues to inspire generations. He was not a
leader with a long political career, nor did he command armies. Instead, he was a thinker, a
fighter, and a martyr whose greatest weapon was his undying courage.
His career reminds us that sometimes, it is not the length of life but its intensity that
matters. Bhagat Singh burned like a flameshort, bright, and unforgettable. In the grand
saga of India’s freedom, his chapter shines as one of the most heroic, proving that even a
young boy from a small village can awaken the spirit of an entire nation.
As Jawaharlal Nehru once said, “Bhagat Singh did not die when he was hanged; he was
reborn in the hearts of millions of Indians.”
“This paper has been carefully prepared for educational purposes. If you notice any mistakes or
have suggestions, feel free to share your feedback.”