Who is referred to as Deshbandhu?
VerifiedAnswer: Chittaranjan Das
Explanation:
Chittaranjan Das is fondly remembered as "Deshbandhu," which literally means "Friend of the Nation" in Bengali and Hindi. This honorary title was bestowed upon him due to his unwavering dedication to India's freedom struggle and his selfless service to the country during the British colonial period.
Born on November 5, 1870, in Calcutta (now Kolkata), Chittaranjan Das was a prominent lawyer, freedom fighter, and political leader who played a crucial role in India's independence movement. He was initially a successful barrister who gave up his lucrative legal practice to dedicate his life entirely to the cause of Indian independence. His transformation from a wealthy lawyer to a devoted patriot earning him immense respect among his contemporaries and the common people.
Das was deeply influenced by the nationalist movement and became an active participant in various freedom struggles. He joined the Indian National Congress and worked closely with other prominent leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Lala Lajpat Rai. His political philosophy centered around complete independence from British rule, and he was known for his fiery speeches and passionate advocacy for Swaraj (self-rule).
One of his most significant contributions was the formation of the Swaraj Party in 1923, along with Motilal Nehru. This party emerged after differences arose within the Congress regarding participation in legislative councils. The Swaraj Party aimed to obstruct the British government's functioning from within the legislative assemblies while working towards complete independence. This strategic approach helped maintain the momentum of the freedom movement during a critical phase.
Chittaranjan Das was also known for his efforts to promote Hindu-Muslim unity and his work towards social reform. He believed that India's strength lay in its diversity and worked tirelessly to bridge communal divides. His leadership extended beyond politics as he was instrumental in promoting Bengali literature, culture, and education. He established several educational institutions and supported various social causes that benefited the common people.
Unfortunately, Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das passed away on June 16, 1925, at the relatively young age of 54. His untimely death was a significant loss to the Indian independence movement. However, his legacy continued to inspire future generations of freedom fighters and political leaders. His contributions to India's freedom struggle and his title "Deshbandhu" remain an integral part of Indian history, reminding us of his dedication to the nation and its people.
