North East India Freedom Fighters : Many freedom fighters contributed to granting independence to the country of India. Some of them are very famous, but there are also many martyrs whose stories are not well-known to us. Let’s learn more about a few freedom fighters who came from the northeastern part of India.
North East India States :
The North East states of India are nestled in the Himalayas. They are like a mix of different cultures and landscapes. There are eight states there – Tripura, Sikkim, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram. They have lots of different traditions, languages, and festivals. The place is great if you like nature, with hills, forests, and waterfalls. It’s also a home for special plants and animals. North East India Freedom Fighters were champions of independence. These brave individuals from North East India fought colonial oppression. The stories of North East India Freedom Fighters inspire us all.
North East India Freedom Fighters : untold stories
Starting in 1826, Assam and the North-eastern region gradually became a part of British India through annexation. This sparked some of the most intense movements of resistance against the imperialist colonial rule. Within just under two years of being annexed, the first major resistance movement occurred. North East India Freedom Fighters were champions of independence.
During 1861, for the first time in this area, a significant protest against the British occurred in Assam. On the other hand, the various tribal communities from the hill states were involved in several clashes with the British. They fought to safeguard their sacred lands, and countless unnamed heroes made the ultimate sacrifice.
The realm of fearless patriotism, we find figures like Maniram Dewan and Kushal Konwar representing Assam, while Ranuwa Gohai and Matmur Jamoh emerge from what is known today as Arunachal Pradesh. From Manipur to Meghalaya, North East India Freedom Fighters arose.
Similarly, Pasaltha Khuangcchera’s remarkable courage originates from the present-day Mizoram, Pa Togan Sangma from Meghalaya, Tikendrajit from Manipur, Rani Gaidinliu from Nagaland, and Ratanmani Reang from Tripura stand as remarkable as those of well-known figures like Mangal Pandey, Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, or Tantia Tope.
North East India Freedom Fighters hailed from diverse communities. These brave individuals from North East India fought colonial oppression
North East India Freedom Fighters Gomdhar Konwar Assam :
A member of royal clan “Ahom”. Gomdhar Konwar considered to be the first to have attained martyrdom in the anti-colonial struggle. He is one of the brave North East India Freedom Fighters. He asked to people of assam not to pay taxes to the Britishers. Konwar stood out not only for his activism but also for his efforts to unite diverse communities for a common cause.
Born in 1893 in Assam’s Sivasagar district, Gomdhar Konwar became actively involved in the freedom movement at a young age. He participated in various local protests against the British colonial rule, advocating for the rights and freedom of his fellow countrymen.
Kanaklata Barua Assam Brave Freedom Fighter :
Kanaklata Barua, a name etched in the annals of India’s freedom struggle, symbolizes unwavering courage and sacrifice. Born in 1924 in Assam’s Golaghat district, her life’s journey would inspire generations to come. Kanaklata barua also known as name “Birbala”.
She joined the Quit India Movement, a pivotal chapter in the fight against British colonialism. In 1942, at the age of 18, she became an integral part of a historic event that would forever define her legacy.
The incident unfolded on September 20, 1942, when Kanaklata and her companions attempted to hoist the tricolor flag of India in front of the British police station.
Confronted by armed police, Kanaklata and her comrades stood firm. Despite being unarmed, they faced the police with unyielding resolve. Tragically, the police opened fire, injuring Kanaklata and her companions. In the hail of bullets, Kanaklata fell, making the ultimate sacrifice for her nation’s freedom.
Moji Riba One of the brave North East India Freedom Fighters
Hailing from Arunachal Pradesh, Moji Riba stands as a notable Indian freedom fighter. His indelible mark on the Indian independence movement includes being the pioneer to hoist the Indian national flag in Arunachal Pradesh after its liberation on August 15, 1947.
As the inaugural President of the Indian National Congress (INC) in Arunachal Pradesh, Riba ardently championed the messages of Mahatma Gandhi and Gopinath Bordoloi.
Immersed in the Quit India Movement, he exhibited unwavering dedication to India’s quest for freedom. Moji Riba’s legacy illuminates a unique chapter in the tapestry of India’s struggle for independence.
U kiang Nangbah : A farmer from Meghalaya
In the Khasi community of Meghalaya, U Kiang Nangbah emerged as a leader who fearlessly stood against the oppressive policies of the British administration. He recognized the significance of unity among his people and dedicated himself to mobilizing them against the injustices they faced.
U kiang Nangbah was the first jaintia farmer who refused to pay agriculture income taxes to the British. However, the British responded with force, leading to a tragic confrontation. U Kiang Nangbah was captured, and his execution served as a grim reminder of the consequences of challenging colonial rule.
Tikendrajit Son of Maharaja Chandrakirti singh :
Tikendrajit was a courageous leader from Manipur, a state in India’s northeast. He was the fifth son of Maharaja Chandrakirti Singh. He was born in 1856 and learned important skills as he grew up.
When the British tried to take over Manipur, Tikendrajit showed great bravery. He led his people in the Battle of Khongjom, trying to protect their land. Even though he was captured and executed by the British, his bravery is still remembered in Manipur.
Ropuiliani: A Tale of Resilience and Hope
The story of Ropuiliani, an emblematic figure from Mizoram, portrays a narrative of unwavering determination and the triumph of the human spirit. Born in the picturesque landscapes of Mizoram, her life’s journey is a testimony to resilience, courage, and the pursuit of education.
Ropuiliani opposed the British demand of Tributary or free labour. Ropuiliani strongly believe that it was her duty to protect her people and the land. She had stated that “Even if you all surrender, Mizoram I am here the daughter of lalsavunga, the brave rural of north, who will never surrender to foreign rulers”.
Famous North East India Freedom Fighters :
The stories of North East India Freedom Fighters are a testament to the unwavering spirit and resilience displayed by these remarkable individuals in their fight against colonial oppression and for the cause of justice and independence.
1. Tirot Sing Syiem: The Lion of Khasi Hills
Tirot Sing Syiem, a Khasi chieftain from Meghalaya, is celebrated as a valiant freedom fighter who fiercely resisted the British colonial rule during the early 19th century. He rallied his people against the British attempts to impose taxes and control over the Khasi Hills. His leadership and determination in the face of adversity made him a symbol of resistance.
2. Rani Gaidinliu: The Naga Rani
Rani Gaidinliu, a Naga woman, stood up against both British imperialism and later, the Indian government’s attempts to suppress Naga nationalism. She played a significant role in the armed struggle for Naga sovereignty. Imprisoned for a substantial period, her indomitable spirit and commitment to her people’s rights earned her widespread admiration. Her efforts remind us of the crucial role women played in the fight for freedom.
3. Jadav Payeng: The Environmental Revolutionary
While not a conventional freedom fighter, Jadav Payeng, also known as the “Forest Man of India,” waged a different kind of battle for the environment. Through his solitary efforts, he transformed a barren sandbar in Assam into a lush forest over several decades. His commitment to nature and sustainability serves as a reminder that the fight for freedom extends beyond political boundaries.
4. Bhogeswari Phukanani: A prominent freedom fighter from Assam, Bhogeswari Phukanani played a pivotal role in the Quit India Movement. She organized protests and agitations against British rule and was eventually arrested for her participation in the movement.
5. Pa Togan Nengminza Sangma: Hailing from the Garo Hills of Meghalaya, Pa Togan Nengminza Sangma was a key leader in the fight against British colonialism. He played a significant role in the non-cooperation movement and advocated for the rights of the Garo people.
6. Jwhwlao Swaiñ Narzary: A Bodo freedom fighter, Jwhwlao Swaiñ Narzary, also known as Jadav Narzary, was an instrumental figure in the Bodo movement for autonomy in Assam. He was a vocal advocate for the rights of the Bodo community and fought against their marginalization.
7. Thadou Kuki Martyrs: The Thadou Kuki community in Manipur and other parts of the North East played a crucial role in the fight against colonialism. Many Thadou Kuki individuals sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of freedom and justice for their people.
8. Rani Moirangthem Sanatombi Devi: A prominent figure from Manipur, Rani Sanatombi Devi actively participated in the struggle against British colonial rule. She was an ardent supporter of the Manipuri women’s movement and played a vital role in organizing protests and demonstrations.
9. Jadumani Boro: A leader of the Bodo community in Assam, Jadumani Boro was a strong advocate for the rights of indigenous people. He fought against land encroachments and the exploitation of the Bodo people, becoming a beacon of resistance.
10. Medini Choudhury: Hailing from Assam, Medini Choudhury was an influential figure in the Indian National Congress and the Quit India Movement. She was a staunch supporter of Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of nonviolent resistance and played a vital role in organizing protests.
11. Bhubaneswari Bhaduri: Known as “Bhubon Mohini,” she was an active participant in the Indian independence movement in Manipur. She was arrested several times for her involvement in protests and strikes against British rule.
12. Piyoli Phukan: An influential Assamese freedom fighter, Piyoli Phukan was a key organizer of the Quit India Movement in Assam. He led protests against British policies and was known for his fiery speeches that inspired many to join the struggle.
13. Sonaram Chutia: Sonaram Chutia was a prominent leader in Assam’s anti-British movement. He organized peasant movements and led protests against oppressive land policies that affected the rural population.
14. Khongjom Parba: The Khongjom Parba, a collective term for the warriors and heroes of Manipur who fought in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, represents the courage and sacrifice of the Manipuri people in their resistance against the British forces.
15. Lakshmi Bai Saikia: Known as “Mai Gauri,” Lakshmi Bai Saikia was an active participant in the Quit India Movement in Assam. She organized women’s protests against British rule and was a prominent voice for women’s rights.
16. Gopinath Bordoloi: While primarily known as Assam’s first Chief Minister, Gopinath Bordoloi also played a significant role in the Indian freedom movement. He was instrumental in uniting the diverse communities of Assam in the fight against British rule.
These brave individuals, each with their unique stories and contributions, shaped the trajectory of North East India’s struggle for freedom. Their sacrifices, dedication, and unwavering spirit continue to serve as a source of inspiration for generations to come. The sacrifices of North East India Freedom Fighters shaped history.
North East India Freedom Fighters united for a common cause. The legacy of North East India Freedom Fighters lives on. North East India Freedom Fighters paved the way for a brighter future.
Also read important facts related to Indian national Flag Click Here
join us on telegram for study materials pdf Click here