The Life and Times of Deshbandhu Chittranjan Das: A Legendary Freedom Fighter and Nation Builder

The life of Deshbandhu Chittranjan Das is a testament to the indomitable spirit of a true patriot. Born into an affluent family in 1870, Das dedicated his life to the cause of Indian independence and became one of the most influential leaders of the Indian National Congress. His charismatic personality, unwavering principles, and selfless service earned him the title "Deshbandhu," meaning "Friend of the Nation."

The Life and Times of Deshbandhu Chittranjan Das

by Angela Murrills

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1980 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	175 pages

FREE

Early Life and Education

Chittranjan Das was born on November 5, 1870, in Bikrampur, Bengal (present-day Bangladesh). His father, Bhuban Mohan Das, was a wealthy lawyer and a prominent figure in the local community. Das received his early education at the local missionary school and later attended Presidency College in Calcutta.

At Presidency College, Das excelled in academics and showed a keen interest in politics. He became involved in the Indian National Congress and soon emerged as a young leader with a sharp intellect and a fiery spirit.

Legal Career and Political Activism

After graduating from college, Das studied law in England and became a Barrister-at-Law. Upon his return to India in 1896, he established a successful legal practice in Calcutta. However, his true passion lay in politics.

Das joined the Indian National Congress in 1897 and quickly rose through the ranks. He became a close associate of Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Lala Lajpat Rai, leaders of the radical wing of the Congress. Das advocated for self-rule for India and was a vocal critic of British colonial rule.

Non-Cooperation Movement

In 1920, Mahatma Gandhi launched the Non-Cooperation Movement, aimed at withdrawing support from the British government and forcing it to grant independence. Das played a pivotal role in the movement and became one of its most influential leaders.

He organized mass rallies, led civil disobedience campaigns, and encouraged people to boycott British goods and institutions. Das's fiery speeches and charismatic leadership inspired thousands of Indians to join the movement.

Bombay Session of the Congress

In 1921, at the annual session of the Indian National Congress in Bombay, Das presided over a session that marked a major turning point in the history of the Congress. The session passed a resolution calling for complete independence from British rule.

Das also made a historic speech at the session, declaring: "We shall not rest until we have driven every Britisher out of our country." This speech further galvanized the independence movement and made Das a symbol of defiance against colonialism.

Imprisonment and Death

Das's militant nationalism and his role in the Non-Cooperation Movement made him a target of the British authorities. He was arrested in 1921 and sentenced to six months in prison.

During his imprisonment, Das's health deteriorated due to harsh prison conditions. He was released in 1922 but was re-arrested within a year. This time, he was sentenced to two years in prison.

Das's second imprisonment took a heavy toll on his health. He was released in 1925 but died a few months later on June 16, 1925, at the age of 54.

Legacy and Impact

Chittranjan Das's life and contributions played a significant role in shaping India's freedom struggle. His unwavering commitment to independence, his leadership in the Non-Cooperation Movement, and his sacrifice for the cause of the nation left an enduring legacy.

Das was not only a political leader but also a renowned lawyer, an orator par excellence, and a social reformer. He was instrumental in establishing the Indian Civil Liberties Union and worked tirelessly to protect the rights of the marginalized.

The title "Deshbandhu" bestowed on Das aptly encapsulates the respect and admiration he earned from his countrymen. He remains an inspiration to generations of Indians who strive for a better and more just society.

The life and times of Deshbandhu Chittranjan Das are a testament to the power of one individual to make a profound impact on the course of history. His unwavering patriotism, his fearless leadership, and his unwavering belief in the freedom and dignity of all Indians left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and guide the nation today.

Through his writings, speeches, and actions, Das played a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of India. He helped to awaken the spirit of self-reliance and nationalism among his countrymen and paved the way for the eventual liberation of India.

Chittranjan Das's life story is a compelling tale of courage, sacrifice, and the indomitable human spirit. It is a story that deserves to be told and retold for generations to come, reminding us of the unwavering commitment and selfless service that can make a world of difference.

The Life and Times of Deshbandhu Chittranjan Das

by Angela Murrills

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1980 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	175 pages

FREE