January 28th: Birth Anniversary of Lala Lajpat Rai – Significance

The prominent member of the Firebrand Trio was born on this day. On the Birth Anniversary of Lala Lajpat Rai, his brave soul is remembered.

The freedom struggle of India or any country for that matter is a historic event for the nation. For years to come, people will remember and honour the heroes who led the freedom struggle. One such key revolutionaries who fought for the freedom of India from the British Rule was Lala Lajpat Rai. Lala Lajpat Rai was also famously known as Punjab Kesari. India’s one of the most celebrated freedom fighters was born on 28th January 1865, in Ferozpur and today marks the 156th birth anniversary of Rai.

History and Background

During India’s freedom movement, the famous ‘Lal Bal Pal’ firebrand trio started the swadeshi movement to boycott British goods with a vision to make India a self-dependant country. Lala Lajpat Rai was part of the trio along with the other two prominent members Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal. 

Lala Lajpat Rai was elected the President of the Indian National Congress in the Calcutta Special Session of 1920. He also founded the Servants of the People Society in 1921, a non-profit welfare organization. He was best known for leading the non-violent march in the protest for the Simon Commission that was set up by the British government.

The ideology of Nationalism and zealous patriotism earned him the title of ‘Punjab Kesari’ and ‘Lion of Punjab’. He was a firm believer in India’s independence and dedicated almost his entire life for the same cause. He left behind a legacy of nationalism, unity and strength.