Dr. Raghavendra Kumar Raghav–
December 19 marks the martyrdom day of Pandit Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan Warsi ‘Hasrat,’ and Thakur Roshan Singh, three revolutionary freedom fighters who were executed in Gorakhpur in 1927. All three hailed from Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, often referred to as the “land of martyrs.” Among them, Thakur Roshan Singh was the eldest, a skilled marksman, and an experienced leader. The patriotism these warriors held in their hearts for their country is beyond imagination, but their words give us a glimpse of their spirit.
In his autobiography, Bismil lamented that if someone had smuggled a revolver into his prison cell, the world would have witnessed his capabilities. Unfortunately, his dreams remained unfulfilled. However, his autobiography has become an invaluable treasure, providing insights into his revolutionary ideology. This text, available online today, survived thanks to the respect and admiration he commanded among prison staff. Despite the British administration seizing every printed copy at the time, it still found its way into history.
Ram Prasad Bismil was born on June 11, 1897, in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh. A revolutionary, poet, translator, and writer, he sacrificed his life for India’s independence at the young age of 30. On December 19, 1927, he was executed in Gorakhpur Jail. His pen name, ‘Bismil,’ meaning “wounded soul,” reflected his inner turmoil. Over 11 years of revolutionary work, he authored several books, 11 of which were published during his lifetime but subsequently banned by the British.
Thakur Roshan Singh was born on January 22, 1892, in Shahjahanpur. A devout Arya Samaji, he embraced martyrdom at the age of 35. In a letter to a friend from his prison cell on December 6, 1927, he wrote:
“Within this week, I will be executed. Pray that God blesses you for your love. Do not mourn for me. My death is a reason for joy. To live in the world without earning disgrace and to die remembering God—these are the only two essential things. With God’s grace, I have both. Thus, my death is not worth lamenting.”
He ended the letter with a couplet:
“Life is for the living spirit, O Roshan,
Otherwise, many perish every day unnoticed.”
Ashfaqulla Khan was born on October 22, 1900, in Shahjahanpur. Coming from a modest background, he was deeply influenced by the contrast between his underprivileged paternal family and his highly educated maternal relatives. He ultimately redeemed his family’s tarnished reputation by sacrificing his life for India’s independence.
The Kakori train robbery of August 9, 1925, was a turning point in India’s struggle for freedom. Bismil, Ashfaque, Roshan Singh, and other revolutionaries executed the heist to fund their revolutionary activities. Ashfaque initially opposed the plan, fearing it was premature, but once the decision was made, he wholeheartedly supported it.
During the raid, Ashfaque showcased incredible strength by breaking into the treasury chest when all other tools failed. This act exemplified his unwavering dedication and valor. However, the aftermath saw many of them arrested and tried in court.
In prison, Ashfaque was offered a chance to save himself by becoming a government witness against his comrades. A British officer tried to sway him by appealing to his religion, claiming the Hindus in his group wanted a Hindu state. Ashfaque retorted:
“You do not know Pandit Ram Prasad Bismil as I do. If his aim were a Hindu state, it would still be better than this oppressive British rule. Don’t insult my leader. I would rather face another murder charge than betray him.”
His resolve remained unshaken, and he embraced death with dignity.
The sacrifices of these revolutionaries shook the nation. Representing ordinary Indians, they fought not for personal gain but for the freedom of their country. The execution of Bismil, Ashfaque, and Roshan Singh inspired the youth of India to rise and resist colonial oppression. Groups like Bhagat Singh’s Naujawan Sabha and Sukhdev’s secret society sprang up across the country.
Even in their final moments, these martyrs displayed remarkable courage. Thakur Roshan Singh wrote that dying in a righteous cause ensures a place among sages, while Ashfaque’s poetry resonated with his love for his country. Bismil’s writings continue to inspire with their revolutionary ideals.
Despite their sacrifices, India has not fully realized the vision these revolutionaries had for a free and just society. Today, their memorials in places like Kakori and Shahjahanpur lie neglected, reduced to mere symbols rather than centers of inspiration. Their ideals demand revival in an era where India still struggles with issues of equality and self-reliance.
The revolutionary trio—Bismil, Ashfaque, and Roshan Singh—left behind a legacy of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering love for their nation. They remain a beacon of hope for an India that still seeks true freedom.
Dr. Raghavendra Kumar Raghav
