2008 - Shaheed Bhagat Singh | Commemorative Coin

The 2nd commemorative coin of 2008 was released to mark the Birth Centenary of Shaheed Bhagat Singh.

Bhagat Singh remains one of the most iconic and inspirational figures in India’s struggle for independence, remembered for his extraordinary courage, intellectual depth, and unwavering commitment to the nation. Born on 28 September 1907 in Banga, Punjab, he grew up in an environment charged with patriotic fervor. His family was deeply involved in the freedom movement, and the stories of sacrifice by leaders like Maharaj Singh, Ajit Singh, and Kartar Singh Sarabha left a lasting impact on his young mind. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919 further shaped his nationalist spirit, convincing him that the British rule could be challenged only through bold and decisive action.

As a teenager, Bhagat Singh joined revolutionary organizations dedicated to overthrowing colonial rule. His association with the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) marked a turning point, as he embraced socialism and envisioned an India free not only from foreign domination but also from social injustice, inequality, and exploitation. His revolutionary ideology was grounded in the belief that true freedom required both political liberation and social transformation. Bhagat Singh distinguished himself not merely as a brave revolutionary but also as a thinker and writer who articulated the aspirations of a new generation of Indians.

One of the most defining chapters of his life was the Lahore conspiracy case. Following the death of Lala Lajpat Rai due to police lathi-charge, Bhagat Singh and his associates sought to avenge the national leader. Mistakenly killing British officer J. P. Saunders instead of James A. Scott, the act thrust Bhagat Singh into the spotlight. To further awaken the nation against oppressive laws, he and Batukeshwar Dutt threw non-lethal bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in Delhi on 8 April 1929, deliberately avoiding casualties and offering themselves for arrest. His statement, “It takes a loud voice to make the deaf hear,” reflected his intention to shake the British conscience and inspire Indians.

During his imprisonment, Bhagat Singh demonstrated remarkable intellectual strength. He studied extensively, wrote articles on revolution, socialism, and Indian society, and participated in a prolonged hunger strike demanding equal treatment for Indian prisoners. His writings reveal a profound understanding of global revolutionary movements and a desire to uplift the masses. Even in captivity, he became a symbol of resistance, winning the admiration of millions across the country.

On 23 March 1931, Bhagat Singh, along with Rajguru and Sukhdev, was executed by the British. At just 23 years old, he embraced martyrdom with calm dignity, leaving behind a legacy unmatched in the history of India’s freedom struggle. His death sparked nationwide outrage, turning him into a national hero whose ideas continued to inspire future generations. Bhagat Singh’s life remains a testament to courage, conviction, and the belief that sacrifice for the greater good is the highest form of patriotism. His legacy endures not only in the pages of history but in the spirit of every Indian who cherishes freedom, equality, and justice.

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