Independence is typically the goal of a colony or nation seeking to break away from a ruling power. Rebellion can be broader, aiming at social, political, or economic change, not necessarily independence. Rebellion can be violent or non-violent.
Every generation believes it is the first to wake up. Gen Z has hashtags and reels; earlier generations had pamphlets, placards and campus marches. The technology changes, but the impulse remains: to challenge what seems wrong and demand change. Yet rebellion is only the beginning. The real test comes later—when idealism meets responsibility, and slogans must become systems, institutions and lasting change.
On 30 June 1855, long before the Revolt of 1857, the Santhals launched one of the earliest organized uprisings against British colonial rule in India. Hool Diwas commemorates their extraordinary struggle for dignity, justice, and the rights to access water, forests, and land. In the present day, we reflect on this lesser-known chapter of courage, which continues to inspire conversations about freedom, cultural identity, and the rights of indigenous peoples.
On 11 August, we respectfully remember Khudiram Bose, one of India’s youngest freedom fighters, who was martyred in 1908 at just 18. His bravery in the face of colonial rule inspired the nation. Khudiram faced death fearlessly, leaving a lasting legacy. Today, we honour him by renewing our commitment to justice, courage, and service to the country.
A recent article from The Independent reveals that ancient ridges and canals in Southern Iraq, previously attributed to an agricultural system, were likely built using slave labor, particularly by the enslaved Zanj. This discovery connects their construction to the 9th-century Zanj Rebellion, underscoring the significant but overlooked contributions of enslaved Africans to the region's landscape. The findings challenge existing historical narratives and bring attention to the hidden legacy of these individuals.
The Anushilan Samiti, operating during British colonial rule in India, was a clandestine revolutionary organization that advocated armed resistance. It emerged as a reaction to the moderate methods of the Indian National Congress, emphasizing physical fitness, martial training, and social responsibility. Members engaged in propaganda and armed attacks on British officials. Despite facing repression, the Samiti continued to operate clandestinely and played a significant role in the independence movement, inspiring generations of revolutionaries.
On May Day, we honour the labour movement and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's contributions to workers' rights, including his role in the Tata Steel trade union. His advocacy and leadership secured fundamental rights for workers, reshaping India's industrial landscape. His legacy demonstrates the intersection of freedom struggle and labour movements, inspiring solidarity and social justice.
Lahiri Diwas is an annual commemoration in Gonda jail, Uttar Pradesh, honouring the fearless revolutionary Rajendranath Lahiri, known for his major role in India's independence movement and execution on December 17, 1927. Lahiri, born in 1901 in Bengal, demonstrated exceptional courage, breaking societal norms and conducting revolutionary activities, including the notorious Kakori train robbery. Despite his death sentence, he expressed undying resilience and belief in a liberated India. Today, this event celebrates his sacrifice, featuring cultural festivities and reinforcement of his enduring belief.
Birsa Munda, an iconic figure in tribal resistance, spearheaded a rebellion against British colonial rule in late 19th-century India. Born in 1875, he mobilized tribal communities in resistance to British oppression, campaigned for social reform, and sought to establish self-governance rooted in tribal customs. Despite his relatively short life, his legacy continues to inspire tribal rights and autonomy movements internationally. Today, his contributions to India's tribal movements are recognized, and his birth anniversary is commemorated as 'Janjatiya Gaurav Divas’ (Tribal Pride Day).
On the 75th anniversary of India's independence, we also commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sri Aurobindo, a visionary leader in India's freedom struggle. He emphasized the spiritual foundation of India's strength and advocated for complete independence from British rule, envisioning a society rooted in spirituality and human unity.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the installation of a grand statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at India Gate, New Delhi, in celebration of the 125th birth anniversary of the revered freedom fighter. Until the statue's completion, a hologram of Netaji will stand in its place, to be unveiled on January 23rd. This gesture pays homage to Bose's pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence and his enduring legacy.
