Martyrs' Remembrance Day: The Final Moments of Bhagat Singh – His Last Read and Unshakable Courage
Bhagat Singh, one of India's most revered revolutionaries, remains an enduring symbol of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering patriotism. His bold resistance against British rule, along with his fearless embrace of death, continues to inspire generations. As Martyrs' Day is observed in his memory, a question that often arises is: What book was he reading before his execution? And why did he willingly kiss the noose before being hanged? Let's delve into the final moments of Bhagat Singh’s extraordinary life.
1. Who Was Bhagat Singh?
-
Bhagat Singh was a prominent freedom fighter who played a significant role in India’s struggle for independence from British rule.
-
Born on September 28, 1907, in Punjab, he grew up witnessing the oppression of Indians under colonial rule.
-
Influenced by revolutionary ideologies, he joined movements that opposed British imperialism and demanded complete independence.
-
His actions, including the famous Central Legislative Assembly bombing in 1929, were aimed at drawing attention to India's fight for freedom.
2. The Events Leading to His Execution
-
Bhagat Singh, along with his associates Rajguru and Sukhdev, was sentenced to death for the killing of British officer J.P. Saunders.
-
The execution was scheduled for March 24, 1931, but was carried out a day earlier, on March 23, at Lahore Central Jail.
-
Despite several appeals and public outrage, the British government refused to commute his sentence.
-
His final moments in prison reflected his unwavering determination and fearless spirit.
3. Which Book Was Bhagat Singh Reading Before His Execution?
-
Before his execution, Bhagat Singh was deeply engrossed in the book ‘Revolutionary Lenin’, which was based on the life and ideologies of Russian revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin.
-
The book resonated with his belief in socialism and the idea of revolution against oppressive regimes.
-
Even in his final hours, he continued reading, showing his commitment to knowledge and revolutionary ideas.
-
When the jail authorities arrived to take him to the gallows, he requested a few more moments to finish his reading.
4. Why Did Bhagat Singh Kiss the Noose?
-
Unlike most prisoners who fear execution, Bhagat Singh walked to the gallows with a smile on his face.
-
He kissed the noose as a mark of his defiance against the British rule, showing that he did not fear death.
-
To him, his execution was not an end but a beginning—his sacrifice would inspire countless others to fight for freedom.
-
His last words were, “Inquilab Zindabad!” (Long Live the Revolution!), which echoed as he was hanged.
5. The Impact of His Sacrifice on India's Freedom Struggle
-
Bhagat Singh’s execution intensified the independence movement, igniting revolutionary sentiments across the country.
-
His bravery and sacrifice made him an icon of resistance against British oppression.
-
He proved that ideas are stronger than weapons—his ideology continues to influence young minds even today.
-
Many leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi, acknowledged his contribution and the impact of his martyrdom on India's fight for independence.
6. Bhagat Singh’s Ideology and His Vision for India
-
Unlike many freedom fighters, Bhagat Singh believed that independence was not just about removing British rule but also about creating a just and equal society.
-
He strongly advocated socialism and an India free from social and economic inequalities.
-
His writings and speeches reflected his vision of an independent India where every individual had equal rights and opportunities.
-
Even today, his vision continues to be relevant in discussions about justice, equality, and social change.
7. How Bhagat Singh Is Remembered Today
-
March 23 is observed as Shaheed Diwas (Martyrs' Day) in memory of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev.
-
Statues, memorials, and museums dedicated to Bhagat Singh stand as reminders of his extraordinary sacrifice.
-
Books, films, and documentaries have been made to educate people about his fearless spirit and ideology.
-
Schools and colleges across India conduct events to honor his legacy and inspire young minds.
8. Lesser-Known Facts About Bhagat Singh
-
He was fluent in multiple languages, including Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi, and English.
-
At the young age of 23, he had already written several articles and letters expressing his revolutionary ideas.
-
He coined the slogan “Inquilab Zindabad”, which became the rallying cry of the Indian independence movement.
-
Despite being sentenced to death, he remained composed and fearless, inspiring even the prison authorities.
9. Why Bhagat Singh’s Story Still Matters Today
-
His life teaches the importance of standing up for justice, even in the face of adversity.
-
His thoughts on equality and a fair society remain relevant in modern India.
-
His undying patriotism continues to inspire youth to contribute towards the nation’s progress.
-
His fearless approach to life and death makes him one of the most influential figures in India's history.
10. Conclusion: A Revolutionary Who Lives On
Bhagat Singh was more than just a freedom fighter—he was a thinker, a revolutionary, and an inspiration for generations to come. His last moments, spent reading a book on revolution and embracing death with a smile, show his extraordinary courage and unwavering faith in his cause. As we remember him on Martyrs' Day, his sacrifice serves as a powerful reminder that true bravery lies in standing up for what is right, no matter the cost.
Even today, his legacy continues to ignite the spirit of patriotism, making Bhagat Singh an immortal hero in India's history. Inquilab Zindabad!
