Introduction
Shivaram Hari Rajguru, commonly known as Rajguru, was an Indian revolutionary and a prominent member of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) in the Indian independence movement. He was born on August 24, 1908, in a small village called Khed near Pune, Maharashtra. He was a close associate of Bhagat Singh, another renowned Indian revolutionary, and played a crucial role in the famous Lahore Conspiracy Case.
Early Life and Education
Rajguru was born on 24 August 1908 at Khed to Parvati Devi and Harinarayan Rajguru in a Marathi Deshastha Brahmin family. Khed was located at the bank of river Bheema near Pune. His father died when he was only six years old and the responsibility of the family fell on his elder brother Dinkar. He received primary education at Khed and later studied in New English High School in Pune. He joined Seva Dal at a young age. He attended a training camp conducted by Dr. N. S. Hardikar at Ghatprabha.
Political Involvement
Rajguru was greatly influenced by the Indian freedom struggle, which was gaining momentum during his college days. He was particularly inspired by the ideas of Bal Gangadhar Tilak, a prominent freedom fighter and nationalist leader. Rajguru joined the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA), a revolutionary organization that aimed to overthrow British rule in India.
In 1928, Rajguru met Bhagat Singh and became a close associate. They both shared a passion for social justice and revolution. Rajguru actively participated in various revolutionary activities and was involved in several bombings and assassinations.
Involvement in the Lahore Conspiracy Case
In 1929, Rajguru and Bhagat Singh, along with another revolutionary, Sukhdev Thapar, were involved in the assassination of a British police officer named J.P. Saunders in Lahore. The trio was arrested and put on trial in what came to be known as the Lahore Conspiracy Case. The case attracted widespread public attention and became a rallying point for the Indian independence movement.
The assassination was in retaliation for the death of Lala Lajpat Rai, a prominent Indian freedom fighter who had died from injuries sustained during a police lathi charge while protesting against the Simon Commission.
Rajguru also played a crucial role in the bombing of the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi on April 8, 1929. He and Bhagat Singh threw bombs into the assembly chamber from the public gallery, shouting slogans of "Inquilab Zindabad" (Long live the revolution). The duo was subsequently arrested and sentenced to death for their actions
During the trial, Rajguru, Bhagat Singh, and Sukhdev Thapar were charged with murder and conspiracy against the British Empire. They defended their actions, stating that they were fighting for the freedom of their country and the rights of their fellow Indians. However, the British authorities were determined to crush the revolutionary movement and sentenced all three to death.
Martyrdom
On March 23, 1931, Rajguru, along with Bhagat Singh and Sukhdev Thapar, was hanged to death at the Lahore Central Jail. Their martyrdom was a significant turning point in the Indian independence movement, and their sacrifice inspired many young Indians to join the struggle for freedom.
Legacy
Rajguru is remembered as a brave and fearless revolutionary who sacrificed his life for the freedom of his country. His legacy continues to inspire young Indians, and his contribution to the Indian independence movement is widely recognized. He is commemorated in various ways, including statues and memorials, and his name is often mentioned alongside other prominent freedom fighters
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shivaram Hari Rajguru was a brave and committed freedom fighter who played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement. His dedication to the cause of freedom and his willingness to sacrifice his life for it continue to inspire young Indians today. His legacy is an important part of India's history and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals in the struggle for freedom.
