1998 - Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das | Commemorative Coin

The 2nd commemorative coin of 1998 was issued in memory of the freedom fighter Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das on his 128th Birth Anniversary.

Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das remains one of the most respected and influential leaders of India’s freedom movement, remembered for his unwavering patriotism, compassion for the oppressed, and exceptional legal and political brilliance. Born on November 5, 1870, in Calcutta, Das emerged as a central figure in the national struggle during the early decades of the twentieth century. His life, marked by sacrifice and dedication, left a deep imprint on the movement for independence and on the political consciousness of Bengal and India as a whole.

Chittaranjan Das first distinguished himself as a lawyer of extraordinary ability. His most celebrated legal defence was his successful representation of Sri Aurobindo during the Alipore Bomb Case in 1909. His arguments, delivered with courage and eloquence, earned him national admiration and demonstrated his commitment to justice and truth. But Das’s devotion to India went far beyond the courtroom. He soon turned away from a lucrative legal career to join the freedom struggle full-time, placing the service of the nation above personal wealth and prestige.

His leadership assumed a prominent role during the Non-Cooperation Movement launched by Mahatma Gandhi. In Bengal, Das became one of Gandhi’s strongest allies, encouraging the boycott of British institutions and the promotion of swadeshi ideals. When the movement was suspended after the Chauri Chaura incident, Das disagreed with the withdrawal and formed the Swaraj Party along with Motilal Nehru in 1923. The party sought to enter the legislative councils to obstruct colonial governance from within, offering a new strategic approach to the fight for self-rule. His ability to blend pragmatism with idealism made him a formidable leader and a symbol of political innovation.

Das also served as the Mayor of Calcutta and worked tirelessly to improve civic life, demonstrating his commitment to public welfare. His policies focused on education, sanitation, and the uplift of marginalized communities, reflecting his broader belief that political freedom must be accompanied by social reform. Known affectionately as “Deshbandhu,” meaning “Friend of the Nation,” he earned this title not through rhetoric but through consistent action and selfless service.

Beyond politics, Chittaranjan Das was a man of immense personal generosity. He donated large portions of his wealth to educational institutions, nationalist causes, and the welfare of underprivileged sections of society. His home often became a meeting place for intellectuals, activists, and young nationalists seeking guidance. His ideals of harmony, unity, and fearless pursuit of justice inspired countless individuals during his lifetime and continue to impact the nation’s collective memory.

Das passed away on June 16, 1925, at the age of just fifty-four, leaving behind a legacy of courage, integrity, and national service. His early death was mourned across the country, with thousands recognizing that India had lost one of its most visionary leaders. Yet, his contributions remained deeply embedded in the foundation of the freedom movement. His strategic thinking, political foresight, and moral conviction influenced a generation of leaders who carried the struggle forward.

Today, Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das is remembered not only as a freedom fighter but also as a statesman, humanitarian, and architect of political thought in pre-independence India. His life continues to inspire those who value courage guided by conscience and leadership grounded in compassion. His legacy serves as a reminder that the path to national freedom is built on sacrifice, unity, and an unwavering commitment to the ideals of justice and equality.