The pages of history are adorned with the stories of India’s valiant fight for independence, a tale that continues to inspire and unite every Indian. While many names are celebrated nationwide, there are those whose contributions remain in the shadows, despite their extraordinary sacrifices. As India marks its 76th year of independence, let’s cast a spotlight on the unsung freedom fighters of Odisha, whose unwavering determination and indomitable spirit left an indelible mark on the nation’s journey towards freedom.
Shaheed Madho Singh:
Among Odisha’s fearless leaders, Shaheed Madho Singh shines brightly as a legendary freedom fighter, fueled by his unwavering determination and courage. Madho Singh’s defiance towards British oppression took root when his son-in-law, Narayan Singh, faced injustice at the hands of the British. His audacious act of looting food grain to feed the hungry during a famine marked his resistance against their tyranny.
When the British government imposed heavy taxes on Sambalpur’s kings, Zamindars, and Gountias, Singh vehemently opposed this move and resolved to drive the British out of Sambalpur. He assembled a youth army trained in military warfare, triggering a rise in military tensions. During the 1857 revolt, the rebels stormed Hazaribagh jail to release Surendra Sai. Their strategic capture of Sisodia Ghat severed communication between Sambalpur and Nagpur, thwarting British reinforcements. Despite his valiant efforts, Madho Singh was captured, tried, and eventually hanged by British authorities.
Jambubati Pattnaik:
Hailing from Bargarh, JambubatiPattnaik stands as a beacon of inspiration for generations of women. Her involvement in the freedom movement began in 1930 when she rallied ten women from Sambalpur to join the Salt Satyagraha in Balasore. Displaying unparalleled courage, she hoisted the Tiranga in Barpalli as a symbol of protest against British rule. Pattnaik’s efforts extended to mobilizing women against foreign goods, conducting pickets against liquor shops, and spreading Gandhiji’s message of non-violence.
Despite her arrest alongside her husband and son, her resolve remained unshaken. Following her release, she established an Ashram in Bihar to nurture national consciousness. In 1942, she embraced Gandhiji’s call for “Do or Die” and actively participated in the Quit India Movement, enduring imprisonment. Pattnaik’s legacy lives on, inspiring countless women to follow in her footsteps.
Malati Choudhury:
Born in Angul, Malati Choudhury’s resolute spirit led her on a path of unwavering courage. Joining the freedom movement at a tender age, she participated in Satyagraha and picketed shops selling foreign liquor. Her commitment deepened in 1942 when she actively supported Gandhiji’s “Do or Die” call during the Quit India Movement, leading to her imprisonment for three years.
After her release, Choudhury’s devotion to education spurred her to establish the ‘Utkal Nabajeevan Mandal,’ catering to the needs of underprivileged children. Her tireless efforts earned her accolades and recognition, solidifying her place as an unsung heroine of Odisha’s fight for freedom.
Laxmi Indira Panda:
Laxmi Indira Panda’s life transformed after witnessing her parents’ demise during a British bombardment in Myanmar. Her determination caught the attention of Subhas Chandra Bose, leading her to join the Rani Jhansi Regiment under Captain Lakshmi Sehgal. Trained in combat skills, she collected intelligence across enemy lines.
After the INA’s disbandment, she navigated a tumultuous journey, surviving arrests and adversities. Her contributions continued as she returned to Odisha, setting an example of resilience and strength for generations to come.
Baji Rout:
Baji Rout’s heroic journey began in his childhood in Dhenkanal, fueled by the oppression faced by his community under the British-backed king. The Prajamandal movement gained momentum, and Baji Rout’s determination soared higher after witnessing brutal British atrocities on his fellow villagers. His life was tragically cut short in a scuffle in 1866, making him a legend and an inspiration for all.
As Odisha’s legacy of unsung freedom fighters is unveiled, their stories ignite a spark of pride and reverence. These individuals, whose sacrifices and courage often remained hidden, are now celebrated as symbols of unwavering resolve. Their legacy continues to guide and inspire generations, reminding us of the extraordinary journey towards a free and united India.
The pages of history are adorned with the stories of India’s valiant fight for independence, a tale that continues to inspire and unite every Indian. While many names are celebrated nationwide, there are those whose contributions remain in the shadows, despite their extraordinary sacrifices. As India marks its 76th year of independence, let’s cast a spotlight on the unsung freedom fighters of Odisha, whose unwavering determination and indomitable spirit left an indelible mark on the nation’s journey towards freedom.
Shaheed Madho Singh:
Among Odisha’s fearless leaders, Shaheed Madho Singh shines brightly as a legendary freedom fighter, fueled by his unwavering determination and courage. Madho Singh’s defiance towards British oppression took root when his son-in-law, Narayan Singh, faced injustice at the hands of the British. His audacious act of looting food grain to feed the hungry during a famine marked his resistance against their tyranny.
When the British government imposed heavy taxes on Sambalpur’s kings, Zamindars, and Gountias, Singh vehemently opposed this move and resolved to drive the British out of Sambalpur. He assembled a youth army trained in military warfare, triggering a rise in military tensions. During the 1857 revolt, the rebels stormed Hazaribagh jail to release Surendra Sai. Their strategic capture of Sisodia Ghat severed communication between Sambalpur and Nagpur, thwarting British reinforcements. Despite his valiant efforts, Madho Singh was captured, tried, and eventually hanged by British authorities.
Jambubati Pattnaik:
Hailing from Bargarh, JambubatiPattnaik stands as a beacon of inspiration for generations of women. Her involvement in the freedom movement began in 1930 when she rallied ten women from Sambalpur to join the Salt Satyagraha in Balasore. Displaying unparalleled courage, she hoisted the Tiranga in Barpalli as a symbol of protest against British rule. Pattnaik’s efforts extended to mobilizing women against foreign goods, conducting pickets against liquor shops, and spreading Gandhiji’s message of non-violence.
Despite her arrest alongside her husband and son, her resolve remained unshaken. Following her release, she established an Ashram in Bihar to nurture national consciousness. In 1942, she embraced Gandhiji’s call for “Do or Die” and actively participated in the Quit India Movement, enduring imprisonment. Pattnaik’s legacy lives on, inspiring countless women to follow in her footsteps.
Malati Choudhury:
Born in Angul, Malati Choudhury’s resolute spirit led her on a path of unwavering courage. Joining the freedom movement at a tender age, she participated in Satyagraha and picketed shops selling foreign liquor. Her commitment deepened in 1942 when she actively supported Gandhiji’s “Do or Die” call during the Quit India Movement, leading to her imprisonment for three years.
After her release, Choudhury’s devotion to education spurred her to establish the ‘Utkal Nabajeevan Mandal,’ catering to the needs of underprivileged children. Her tireless efforts earned her accolades and recognition, solidifying her place as an unsung heroine of Odisha’s fight for freedom.
Laxmi Indira Panda:
Laxmi Indira Panda’s life transformed after witnessing her parents’ demise during a British bombardment in Myanmar. Her determination caught the attention of Subhas Chandra Bose, leading her to join the Rani Jhansi Regiment under Captain Lakshmi Sehgal. Trained in combat skills, she collected intelligence across enemy lines.
After the INA’s disbandment, she navigated a tumultuous journey, surviving arrests and adversities. Her contributions continued as she returned to Odisha, setting an example of resilience and strength for generations to come.
Baji Rout:
Baji Rout’s heroic journey began in his childhood in Dhenkanal, fueled by the oppression faced by his community under the British-backed king. The Prajamandal movement gained momentum, and Baji Rout’s determination soared higher after witnessing brutal British atrocities on his fellow villagers. His life was tragically cut short in a scuffle in 1866, making him a legend and an inspiration for all.
As Odisha’s legacy of unsung freedom fighters is unveiled, their stories ignite a spark of pride and reverence. These individuals, whose sacrifices and courage often remained hidden, are now celebrated as symbols of unwavering resolve. Their legacy continues to guide and inspire generations, reminding us of the extraordinary journey towards a free and united India.
