We all are well aware of the role played by freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose, and Bhagat Singh in securing our country’s independence. It is owing to their unwavering dedication that we triumphed over British rule.
Lala Lajpat Rai, often called ‘The Lion of Punjab,’ is a prominent freedom fighter and leader who advocated for Swadeshi and self-reliance in India and abroad. He was deeply influenced by Dayananda Saraswati and founded the Indian Home Rule League of America in 1917. He also led a protest against the British in Punjab for their brutal actions at Jallianwala Bagh. There are many untold stories about Lala Lajpat Rai.
This blog will share these untold stories of Lala Lajpat Rai, which will inspire young children and help them understand the sacrifices made for the India we know today.
Lala Lajpat Rai: Early Life and Family
Lala Lajpat Rai was born in a small village in Punjab to Munshi Radha Krishna Azad and Gulab Devi. He was the eldest son in his family. His father, a scholar fluent in Persian and Urdu, and his mother, a devout woman, instilled strong discipline and patriotism in him. He began his education at the Government Higher Secondary School in Rewari, which was part of Punjab at the time and is now in Haryana. In 1880, he moved to Lahore to study Law at Government College. It was there that he formed lifelong friendships with future freedom fighters, such as Lala Hans Raj and Pandit Guru Dutt.
After completing his law degree, he began legal practice in Hissar, Haryana. In 1877, he married Radha Devi. Lajpat Rai was also deeply involved in the political landscape, attending the annual sessions of the National Congress in 1888 and 1889. Over time, he emerged as a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement, earning the title Punjab Kesari for his fearless spirit and dedication
Contributions of Lala Lajpat Rai
Lala Lajpat Rai made numerous contributions to the nation as a freedom fighter and social reformer. He was part of the legendary Lal-Bal-Pal trio alongside Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal, who collectively inspired millions to join the struggle for Independence.
Here are some key contributions of Lala Lajpat Rai to India’s Independence:
- Championing Education:
- Global Advocacy for Indian Freedom:
- Advocacy for Women’s Rights:
- Literary Contributions:
Lala Lajpat Rai believed education was the foundation of progress. He was instrumental in establishing institutions like the Punjab National Bank and the Lakshmi Insurance Company, which focused on empowering Indians economically and intellectually.
In 1914, Lala Lajpat Rai went to Britain and then to the USA in 1917, seeking to gather international support for India’s independence. He founded the Indian Home Rule League of America in New York City in 1917, where he raised awareness about the oppressive British rule and mobilised Indian expatriates for the cause. He stayed in the USA from 1917 to 1920, engaging with the international community to advocate for India’s independence.
He strongly advocated for women’s education and upliftment, emphasising the need to break free from outdated social norms.
Lajpat Rai was also a prolific writer. One notable book written by Lala Lajpat Rai is “The Story of My Deportation,” which provides a firsthand account of his experiences during exile.
Popular Quotes by Lala Lajpat Rai
- “The strength of a nation lies in the character of its people.”
- “Morality requires that we should take to the work of elevating the depressed classes out of a sheer sense of justice and humanity regardless of any outside considerations.”
- “True patriotism demands a fearless attitude towards injustice.”
- “Education is the key to empowerment; it lights the path to progress.”
- “Progress is not solely economic; it must encompass the well-being of every citizen.”
- “A person should be courageous and honest in worshipping the truth, without being concerned about receiving worldly benefits.”
- “Serve the country with dedication and selflessness, and you will find your purpose.”
- “If I had the power to influence Indian journals, I would have the following headlines printed in bold letters on the first page: Milk for the infants, Food for the adults, and Education for all.”
- “The end is the freedom to live… according to our own conception of what life should be, to pursue our own ideals to develop our own personality and to secure that unity of purpose which would distinguish us from the other Nations of the world.”
- “Struggles may be painful, but they are the stepping stones to progress.”
How to Celebrate the Birth Anniversary of Lala Lajpat Rai
Every year, the birth anniversary of Lala Lajpat Rai is celebrated on 28th January. The birth anniversary of Lala Lajpat Rai is an opportunity for parents to reminisce about his sacrifices and contributions to India’s Independence. Parents can use this occasion to engage their children in activities like:
- Storytelling Sessions:
- Creative Projects:
- Educational Visits:
Narrate inspiring stories of Lala Lajpat Rai’s life, such as his leadership during the anti-Simon Commission protests or others.
Parents can encourage children to make posters or write essays about Lala Lajpat Rai’s role in India’s independence. You can also ask your children to make posters of all freedom fighters who played a pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle.
You can explore museums or monuments dedicated to freedom fighters to connect children with history.
Why Teach Children About Lala Lajpat Rai?
Understanding the history of Lala Lajpat Rai helps children appreciate the sacrifices made by freedom fighters to secure India’s independence. His life serves as a beacon of courage, determination, and selflessness. By sharing his story, parents can instill values like resilience, empathy, and a sense of responsibility in their children.
Summing Up
In conclusion, freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai’s sacrifice and struggle for India’s freedom will inspire your kid to aim high and contribute meaningfully to society. By teaching children about these icons, parents can ensure their legacies continue to inspire future generations. You can visit our blog, Freedom Fighters Of India– Names And Their Contributions , for more inspiring stories about freedom fighters.
For informative articles on all things related to your little one’s development, growth, health and nutrition, check out EuroKids Blogs, and do check out our nationally recognised preschools – EuroKids Preschools for the first step in your kid’s educational journey!
