Bihar played a significant role in the freedom struggle of India against British colonial rule. The state was home to numerous leaders, movements, and events that contributed to the overall struggle for independence. Let us discuss the Role of Bihar in Freedom Struggle of India:
Let us discuss the important incidences that took place in Bihar and impacted the freedom struggle at large.
Table of Contents
Role of Bihar in Freedom Struggle of India
1. Champaran Satyagraha (1917): One of the most famous events in the Indian independence movement, the Champaran Satyagraha, took place in Bihar. Mahatma Gandhi led this campaign against the forced indigo cultivation and exploitative practices imposed on indigo farmers by British indigo planters. The success of this satyagraha marked an early victory for the non-cooperation movement.
2. Khilafat Movement (1920): Bihar actively participated in the Khilafat Movement, a pan-Indian movement that protested British actions against the Ottoman Empire’s Caliph, which was seen as an affront to the Muslim world. This movement was led by leaders like Maulana Mazharul Haque and Kazi Shamsuddin.
3. Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922): Bihar played a significant role in Mahatma Gandhi’s Non-Cooperation Movement. The people of Bihar participated in boycotts of British goods, non-payment of taxes, and other forms of non-cooperation with British authorities.
4. Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-1934): Bihar actively participated in the Civil Disobedience Movement, which included mass protests, strikes, and acts of civil disobedience against British policies. Prominent leaders like Rajendra Prasad, Anugrah Narayan Sinha, and Krishna Sinha were involved in these activities.
5. Quit India Movement (1942): During the Quit India Movement, Bihar witnessed widespread protests and acts of civil disobedience. Many leaders and activists were arrested, and the movement played a crucial role in building momentum towards India’s eventual independence.
6. Contribution of Leaders: Bihar was home to several influential leaders who played pivotal roles in the freedom struggle. Dr. Rajendra Prasad, who later became India’s first President, was a prominent figure in the Indian National Congress. Other leaders like Anugrah Narayan Sinha, Krishna Sinha, and Jayaprakash Narayan were key figures in Bihar’s political landscape and the national freedom movement.
7. Educational and Cultural Contribution: Bihar also contributed to the intellectual and cultural aspects of the freedom struggle. It was home to institutions like the Bihar Vidyapeeth, founded by Rajendra Prasad, which promoted Indian culture and education in the face of British influence.
Important Freedom Fighters from Bihar
Bihar has a rich history of freedom fighters who played significant roles in India’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule.
- Mahatma Gandhi: Although Mahatma Gandhi was not originally from Bihar, he spent a considerable amount of time in the state during the freedom movement. His influence and leadership were instrumental in inspiring and mobilizing people across Bihar to participate in the struggle for independence.
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad: Dr. Rajendra Prasad, a native of Bihar, was a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress and went on to become the first President of India after independence. He played a crucial role in the freedom movement and was an ardent supporter of non-violence.
- Jayaprakash Narayan (JP): Jayaprakash Narayan, also known as JP, was a renowned freedom fighter and social activist from Bihar. He played a key role in various movements against British rule and later became a prominent figure in the socialist movement in India.
- Anugrah Narayan Sinha: Anugrah Narayan Sinha was a prominent leader from Bihar who actively participated in the non-cooperation movement and other civil disobedience movements during the struggle for independence. He later became the first Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister of Bihar.
- Bihar Kesari Dr. Sri Krishna Sinha: Dr. Sri Krishna Sinha was a freedom fighter and leader of the Indian National Congress in Bihar. He served as the first Chief Minister of Bihar after independence and played a significant role in the state’s development.
- Kunwar Singh: Kunwar Singh, also known as Veer Kunwar Singh, was a notable freedom fighter from Bihar who led the 1857 revolt against British rule in India. He is remembered for his bravery and leadership during the uprising.
- Sheel Bhadra Yajee: Sheel Bhadra Yajee was a prominent leader in the Indian National Congress from Bihar and was actively involved in the civil disobedience movement and other protests against British rule.
Bihar’s active participation in various phases of the freedom struggle, along with the leadership of its prominent figures, played a vital role in the eventual achievement of India’s independence in 1947.
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