The Lost Stories of Forgotten Fighters of Indian Independence

The Forgotten Indian Independence Fighters: This year, India will celebrate its 77th Independence Day on August 15. However, behind the glory and celebration lies the history of countless freedom fighters who fought and sacrificed for India’s independence against the British colonial rule.

However, these freedom fighters have been overshadowed by more prominent historical figures. Their stories deserve to be remembered and revered by future generations as a reminder of the sacrifices made for India’s freedom.

In this article, you will learn about a lesser-known hero who played an important role in India’s struggle for freedom.

Gangadin Mehtar: The unknown soldier who single-handedly killed 200 British soldiers in the 1857 battle

Gangadin Mehtar, Gangu wrestler, or Gangu Baba, was a courageous rebel who challenged the oppressive rule of the British in India. A mid-ranking junior commissioned officer, he served under Nana Sahib Peshwa at Kanpur and killed around 200 British soldiers in the 1857 battle.

The Chunni Ganj resident struck fear into the hearts of the British, earning him the reputation of a ‘fierce warrior.’ The British considered him a major threat to their rule in the region and wanted to capture or kill him at any cost.

He was eventually arrested by the British army and executed in public on September 8, 1859. Before his death, he said: “In the land of India, our ancestors smell of blood and sacrifice; one day, India will be free.”

Matangini Hazra: Prominent revolutionary who participated in the Quit India Movement

Matajini Hazra was a remarkable woman who was an Indian revolutionary and independence activist. She was born on October 19, 1870. She played a major role in the Indian independence movement and was known for her fearlessness and dedication to the cause. She was the first woman to be martyred in the Quit India Movement against the British rule in India.

Due to Gandhi’s beliefs, she earned the nickname “Gandhipuri”, which means “Old Gandhi Woman”. She actively participated in the Indian independence movement in 1905 and she also participated in the non-cooperation movement in 1932. However, she was arrested for violating the law.

Despite being arrested many times and being subjected to brutal treatment, Matajini Hazra never wavered in his determination to fight for independence.

She was shot dead by British police during a protest march in front of Tamluk Thana on September 29, 1942, sacrificing her life for the cause.

Kanak Lata Barua: All-India security forces leader shot dead by the Indian Imperial Police during the British Raj

Kanaklata Barua, also known as Birbala and the Martyr, was an Indian independence activist and leader of the All India Security Force. She was shot dead by the Indian Imperial Police during the British Raj in 1942 while leading a flag-carrying procession during the Quit India Movement.

He had a strong sense of patriotism since childhood and was committed to the cause of Indian independence. At the age of 17, the young and brave Kanaklata joined the Assam Youth Death Squad “Mrityu Bahini” with his love for his motherland.

On September 20, 1942, Bahini decided to hoist the national flag at the neighborhood police station. For this purpose, Barua led a group of unarmed farmers. The head of the police station, Rebati Mahan Som, told the procession that their conspiracy would bring dire consequences to the police.

The procession was still moving forward when the police opened fire on it after giving a warning. In the chaos, Kanaklata was shot while holding the national flag high and became a martyr of India’s freedom struggle. The young leader sacrificed her life.