Lala Lajpat Rai Death Anniversary: Five facts about the freedom fighter

Lala Lajpat Rai. File Pic/inc.in

Lala Lajpat Rai Death Anniversary: Lala Lajpat Rai, a prominent figure in India's struggle for independence. He left an indelible mark on the nation's history. On his death anniversary, here are some facts about the Lala Lajpat Rai.

Lala Lajpat Rai was born on January 28, 1865, in Dhudike, Punjab, British India. He received his education at Government Higher Secondary School and later at Government College in Lahore. Lala Lajpat Rai was deeply influenced by the prevailing nationalist sentiment and joined the Arya Samaj, a socio-religious reform movement, during his early years.

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Lala Lajpat Rai played a crucial role in the Indian National Congress, the principal leader of the Indian independence movement. He was a vocal advocate for the rights of farmers and was instrumental in shaping the Congress's stance on economic and social issues. Lala Lajpat Rai's leadership during the non-cooperation movement and his commitment to the cause of Indian independence earned him widespread respect.

Recognising the power of education in shaping the future of a nation, Lala Lajpat Rai actively supported educational reforms. He founded the Punjab National Bank in 1895 to promote economic self-sufficiency and used the funds to establish the D.A.V. College in Lahore, contributing significantly to the spread of education in the region.

One of the most iconic events associated with Lala Lajpat Rai is his protest against the Simon Commission in 1928. The Commission, appointed by the British government to recommend constitutional reforms, did not include any Indian members. Lala Lajpat Rai led a peaceful protest in Lahore, which turned violent when the police lathi-charged the crowd. In the ensuing clash, Lala Lajpat Rai sustained severe injuries and succumbed to them on November 17, 1928.

Lala Lajpat Rai's sacrifice became a rallying point for the independence movement. His death galvanised the nation, and he came to be known as "Punjab Kesari" or "Lion of Punjab."