Jatindra Nath Das: The Revolutionary Martyr
Jatindra Nath Das was an Indian revolutionary, who sacrificed his life in the pursuit of Indian independence from the British rule. He was born on October 27, 1904, in the town of Calcutta (now Kolkata), India. From an early age, Das was interested in the freedom movement and was determined to contribute to the cause in whatever way he could. He was known for his courage, determination, and commitment to the cause of Indian independence. In this article, we will explore the life and legacy of Jatindra Nath Das, and the impact he had on the Indian freedom struggle.
Early Life and Education
Jatindra Nath Das was born in a middle-class Bengali family, his father was a successful lawyer, and his mother was a homemaker. From an early age, Das was exposed to the ideas of the freedom movement, as his father was a member of the Indian National Congress. He completed his early education at the prestigious Scottish Church College in Kolkata, and later went on to study law at the University of Calcutta. During his college years, he became increasingly involved in the freedom struggle and joined the Indian National Congress.
Revolutionary Activities
Jatindra Nath Das was deeply inspired by the ideals of the revolutionaries and wanted to contribute to the cause of Indian independence in a more active way. In 1925, he joined the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA), a revolutionary organization that was formed by Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, and other like-minded individuals. The HRA believed in the use of violent means to achieve independence and was involved in several acts of sabotage against the British government.
Das became an active member of the HRA and was involved in several revolutionary activities. He participated in the Kakori Train Robbery, which was one of the most audacious acts of sabotage carried out by the HRA. Das was also involved in the attempts to blow up the Viceroy’s train and the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi. In 1929, Das was arrested and sentenced to life imprisonment for his involvement in the revolutionary activities.
The Hunger Strike
Jatindra Nath Das was imprisoned in the Cellular Jail in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which was infamous for its harsh treatment of political prisoners. The conditions in the jail were deplorable, and the prisoners were subjected to brutal torture and inhumane treatment. Das was determined to bring attention to the plight of the political prisoners and launched a hunger strike in protest.
The hunger strike lasted for 63 days, during which Das refused to eat and drink anything. He was force-fed by the prison authorities, but he continued with his protest. His health deteriorated rapidly, and he was eventually moved to a hospital in Kolkata, where he died on September 13, 1929. His death shook the nation and led to widespread protests and demonstrations against the British government.
Legacy
Jatindra Nath Das’s sacrifice had a profound impact on the Indian freedom struggle. His death inspired many young revolutionaries to take up arms against the British government and fight for Indian independence. The hunger strike became a powerful symbol of resistance, and several other political prisoners in India and around the world followed Das’s example and went on hunger strikes to protest against unjust treatment.
The legacy of Jatindra Nath Das continues to inspire the people of India, particularly the youth. His courage, determination, and sacrifice are celebrated every year on September 13, which is observed as Martyrs’ Day in India. His life and struggle have been chronicled in several books, films, and documentaries, which have helped to keep his memory alive.
