2016 - Lala Lajpat Rai 150th Birth Anniversary | Commemorative Coin

The first commemorative coin of 2016 was released to mark 150th Birth Anniversary of Lala Lajpat Rai.

Lala Lajpat Rai occupies a revered place in India’s struggle for independence as a courageous nationalist, influential thinker, and powerful voice against colonial rule. Born on January 28, 1865, in Dhudike village of Punjab, he grew into one of the most prominent leaders of the freedom movement. Known as the Punjab Kesari or “Lion of Punjab,” he combined intellectual strength with fearless activism, emerging as a guiding force for the younger generation of revolutionaries and a symbol of unwavering patriotism. His early involvement with the Indian National Congress and his association with the militant nationalist trio—Lal, Bal, and Pal, alongside Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal—reflected his belief in assertive political action and national dignity at a time when moderate methods were losing their appeal.

Lajpat Rai’s leadership extended beyond politics into the social and educational spheres. He firmly believed that national progress required social reform, self-reliance, and public awakening. He founded and supported several institutions, including the Dayanand Anglo-Vedic (DAV) schools and colleges, which became influential centres of education rooted in Indian values. He was also deeply committed to social upliftment, advocating for women’s rights, the eradication of caste discrimination, and economic empowerment. As a writer and journalist, he contributed extensively to nationalist discourse through newspapers and books, presenting compelling arguments for self-rule and exposing the injustices of British policies.

A significant phase of Lajpat Rai’s career unfolded during his time abroad, particularly in the United States, where he worked to gather international support for India’s cause. His writings during this period, including The Wandering Sikh and Young India, helped draw global attention to the aspirations of the Indian people. Upon returning to India, he continued to play an active role in the freedom movement, participating in protests, delivering fiery speeches, and inspiring countless youth to join the struggle for independence. His commitment to national service remained steadfast even as he faced imprisonment, surveillance, and harassment from the colonial administration.

One of the most defining moments of Lajpat Rai’s life came in 1928 during the protest against the Simon Commission, a British committee formed without Indian representation. Leading a massive demonstration in Lahore, he declared that the British response to India’s demand for self-rule would be met with unbreakable resolve. During the protest, he was brutally lathi-charged by police under the orders of J.A. Scott. Though injured, he famously proclaimed that every blow received on his body would be “a nail in the coffin of British imperialism.” He succumbed to his injuries on November 17, 1928, and his death sparked widespread outrage, galvanizing a new wave of revolutionary activities across the country.

Lala Lajpat Rai’s legacy endures as that of a patriot who fearlessly fought for national liberation and social progress. His life serves as an example of courage, sacrifice, and intellectual integrity. He inspired an entire generation to dream of a free India and to pursue that dream with passion and unwavering determination. Through his writings, activism, and martyrdom, he left behind a legacy that continues to resonate in India’s collective memory, reminding the nation of the timeless values of justice, self-respect, and freedom.

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