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Chandrashekhar Azad, often referred to as just Azad, was a prominent Indian revolutionary who played a pivotal role in the Indian independence movement. He is revered for his unwavering commitment to liberating India from British colonial rule and his fearless leadership within revolutionary organizations.

Early Life and Background

Born Chandrashekhar Tiwari on July 23, 1906, in Bhavra village, Alirajpur district, Madhya Pradesh (then in the princely state of Alirajpur), Azad's early life was marked by a strong sense of patriotism. His parents were Sitaram Tiwari and Jagrani Devi. He received his early education in Bhavra and later went to Varanasi (Kashi) for further studies, where he was exposed to the growing nationalist sentiments of the time.

Entry into the Freedom Struggle

Azad's entry into the independence movement began at a young age. He was deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi's non-cooperation movement in 1921. During a protest, he was arrested and, when asked his name by the magistrate, famously declared "Azad" (meaning 'Free' in Hindi), his father's name as "Swatantrata" (Independence), and his residence as "Jail." This incident earned him the moniker "Azad" and solidified his image as a defiant nationalist.

Revolutionary Activities and Ideology

While initially drawn to Gandhi's non-violent approach, Azad became disillusioned with its perceived limitations in achieving complete independence. He eventually gravitated towards revolutionary nationalism, believing that armed struggle was necessary to overthrow British rule.

Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) / Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA)

Azad became a key member of the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA), founded by Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, and others. After the Kakori Train Robbery in 1925, which led to the arrest and execution of many HRA leaders, Azad reorganized the party. In 1928, along with Bhagat Singh and others, he renamed it the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) at a meeting in Feroz Shah Kotla, Delhi. The change in name reflected a shift towards a more socialist ideology, aiming not just for political independence but also for social and economic justice.

Key Revolutionary Actions

Azad was involved in several significant revolutionary acts:

• Kakori Train Robbery (1925): Though he managed to evade arrest, he was a crucial part of the planning and execution of this daring act to procure funds for the HRA.
• Assassination of J.P. Saunders (1928): This act was carried out in Lahore to avenge the death of Lala Lajpat Rai, who succumbed to injuries sustained during a police lathi-charge. Azad, Bhagat Singh, and Sukhdev were central to this operation.
• Bombing of the Central Legislative Assembly (1929): While Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt carried out the bombing, Azad was deeply involved in the planning and strategic decisions leading up to it.

The Final Stand and Legacy

Azad remained an elusive figure for the British police, constantly changing his appearance and hiding places. He was highly skilled in marksmanship and believed in dying a free man.

On February 27, 1931, while at Alfred Park (now Chandrashekhar Azad Park) in Allahabad, Azad was betrayed by an informer. Surrounded by British police, he fought valiantly. After killing three policemen and wounding several others, and with only one bullet left, he shot himself in the head, fulfilling his pledge never to be captured alive by the British.

Chandrashekhar Azad's sacrifice at a young age cemented his place as a martyr and an enduring symbol of courage and defiance in India's freedom struggle. His revolutionary zeal, commitment to complete independence, and his ultimate sacrifice continue to inspire generations. He is remembered as "Azad" – the free man who chose death over subjugation.