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India’s Struggle for Independence: Indian Freedom Movement

Last updated on July 23, 2024 by ClearIAS Team

In the  6-part framework to study modern Indian History , we have so far covered:

• India in 1750 .
• British Expansion .
• The changes introduced by the British .
• Popular Uprisings and Revolts against the British
• Socio-religious movements in India .

In this article (6th part), we discuss the emergence of Indian nationalism and India’s struggle for independence.

Table of Contents

Indian Nationalism

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India has been unified under many empires in its history like the Mauryan Empire and Mughal empire. A sense of oneness has been there for ages – even though most of the centralised administration in India didn’t last long.

With the end of Mughal rule, India broke into hundreds of princely states.  The British – which were instrumental in the fall of the Mughal Empire – held control over the princely states and created the British Indian Empire .

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However, most Indians were extremely dissatisfied with the exploitative foreign rule.

The educated Indians realised that the British always gave priority to their colonial interests and treated India only as a market.

They advocated for the political independence of India.

Foundation of Indian National Congress (INC) in 1885

The late nineteenth century witnessed the emergence of many political organisations in British India.

Indian National Congress (also known as Congress Party) founded in 1885 was the most prominent one.

Initially, its aim was to create a platform for civic and political dialogue between Indians and the British Raj and thus obtain a greater share of government for educated Indians.

Later, under the leaders like Mahatma Gandhi , Jawarhal Nehru , Subhas Chandra Bose , and Sardar Vallabhai Patel , the Congress party played a central role in organising mass movements against the British.

Partition of Bengal (1905)

Indian nationalism was gaining in strength and Bengal was the nerve centre of Indian nationalism in the early 1900s.

Lord Curzon, the Viceroy (1899-1905), attempted to ‘dethrone Calcutta’ from its position as the centre from which the Congress Party manipulated throughout Bengal, and indeed, the whole of India.

The decision to partition Bengal into two was in the air from December 1903.

Congress party – from 1903 to mid-1905 – tried moderate techniques of petitions, memoranda, speeches, public meetings and press campaigns. The objective was to turn to public opinion in India and England against the partition.

However, Viceroy Curzon 1905 formally announced the British Government’s decision for the partition of Bengal on 19 July 1905. The partition took effect on 16 October 1905.

The partition was meant to foster another kind of division – on the basis of religion. The aim was to place Muslim communalists as a counter to the Congress. Curzon promised to make Dacca the new capital.

This resulted in a lot of discontent among the Indians. Many considered this as a policy of ‘Divide and Rule’ by the British.

This triggered a self-sufficiency movement popularly known as the Swadeshi movement.

Also read: Dr. Rajendra Prasad: Architect of the Indian Republic

The Swadeshi Movement (1905-1908)

From conservative moderation to political extremism, from terrorism to incipient socialism, from petitioning and public speeches to passive resistance and boycott, all had their origins in the movement.

Swadeshi is a conjunction of two Sanskrit words: swa (“self”) and desh (“country”).

The movement popularised the use and consumption of indigenous products. Indians started ditching British goods for Indian products.

Women, students, and a large section of the urban and rural population of Bengal and other parts of India became actively involved in politics for the first time with Swadeshi Movement.

The message of Swadeshi and the boycott of foreign goods soon spread to the rest of the country.

The militant nationalists led by Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, Lajpat Rai and Aurobindo Ghosh were in favour of extending the movement to the rest of India and carrying it beyond the programme of just Swadeshi and boycott to a full-fledged political mass struggle. For them, the aim was Swaraj.

In 1906, the Indian National Congress at its Calcutta Session presided over by Dadabhai Naoroji, declared that the goal of the Indian National Congress was ‘self-government or Swaraj like that of the United Kingdom or the Colonies.

There were differences in the ideologies of the congressmen who were popularly known by the names Moderates and the Extremists. They had differences of opinion regarding the pace of the movement and the techniques of struggle to be adopted. This came to a head in the 1907 Surat session of the Congress where the party split (the two factions re-joined later).

This period also saw a breakthrough in Indian art, literature, music, science and industry.

It was, perhaps, in the cultural sphere that the impact of the Swadeshi Movement was most marked. The songs composed at that time by Rabindranath Tagore, Rajani Kanta Sen etc became the moving spirit for nationalists of all hues.

In art, this was the period when Abanindranath Tagore broke the domination of Victorian naturalism over Indian art and sought inspiration from the rich indigenous traditions of Mughal, Rajput and Ajanta paintings.

In science, Jagdish Chandra Bose, Prafulla Chandra Ray, and others pioneered original research that was praised the world over.

The Swadeshi period also saw the creative use of traditional popular festivals and melas as a means of reaching out to the masses. The Ganapati and Shivaji festivals, popularized by Tilak, became a medium for Swadeshi propaganda not only in Western India but also in Bengal.

Another important aspect of the Swadeshi Movement was the great emphasis given to self-reliance or ‘Atmasakti’in various fields meant the re-asserting of national dignity, honour and confidence.

Self-reliance also meant an effort to set up Swadeshi or indigenous enterprises. The period saw a mushrooming of Swadeshi textile mills, soap and match factories etc.

One of the major features of the programme of self-reliance was Swadeshi or National Education. In 1906, the National Council of Education was established. The vernacular medium was given stress from the primary to university level.

Corps of volunteers (or samitis as they were called) were another major form of mass mobilization widely used by the Swadeshi Movement. The Swadesh Bandhab Samiti set up by Ashwini Kumar Dutt was the most well-known volunteer organization of them all.

Reasons for the failure of the Swadeshi Movement

• The main drawback of the Swadeshi Movement was that it was not able to garner the support of the mass. The British use of communalism to turn the Muslims against the Swadeshi Movement was to a large extent responsible for this.
• During the Swadeshi phase, the peasantry was not organized around peasant demands. The movement was able to mobilize the peasantry only in a limited way.
• By mid-1908 repression took the form of controls and bans on public meetings, processions and the press.
• The internal squabbles, and especially, the split in the Congress (1907), the apex all-India organization, weakened the movement.
• The Swadeshi Movement lacked an effective organization and party structure.
• Lastly, the movement declined because of the very logic of mass movements itself — they cannot be sustained endlessly.

However, the movement made a major contribution in taking the idea of nationalism, in a truly creative fashion, to many sections of the people. The peasant participation in the Swadeshi Movement even though less, marked the very beginnings of modern mass politics in India.

Also read: Ghadar Party

The Split in the Congress (1907)

The main public leaders of the two wings, Tilak (of the Extremists) and Gokhale (of the Moderates) were aware of the dangers of disunity in the nationalist ranks.

A split was avoided in 1906 by choosing Dadabhai Naoroji as president of INC in the Calcutta session. Also, four compromise resolutions on the Swadeshi, Boycott, National Education, and Self-Government demands were passed. However, the hope of a united Congress was short-lived.

The Extremists wanted to extend the Swadeshi and the Boycott Movement from Bengal to the rest of the country but the Moderators opposed it.

The Extremists were fumed by the rumours that the Moderates wanted to scuttle the four Calcutta resolutions. This created friction among them which led to the split at the Congress session was held on 26 December 1907 at Surat, on the banks of the river Tapti.

The Indian National Congress split in December 1907. By 1907, the Moderate nationalists had exhausted their historical role. They failed to meet the demands of the new stage of the national movement and even failed to attract the younger generation.

Almost at the same time, revolutionary terrorism made its appearance in Bengal.

Britain’s policy towards  INC

• The British had been suspicious of the National Congress from its inception but they were not overtly hostile either.
• In 1888 Viceroy Dufferin ridiculed INC as representing only the elite — ‘a microscopic minority’.
• Lord Curzon said: “The Congress is tottering to its fall, and one of my greatest ambitions while in India is to assist it to a peaceful demise.”
• The intimidating policies of the British towards INC changed once the Swadeshi and Boycott Movement began. The strengthening of the militant nationalist trend alarmed the British.
• A new policy, known as the policy of the carrot and the stick was invoked. It was three-pronged. It was described as a policy of r epression-conciliation-suppression .
• The Extremists were repressed, though mildly in the first stage. The purpose is to frighten the Moderates. The British also tried to pacify Moderates through some concessions and promises if they disassociated themselves from the Extremists. However, the British always wanted to suppress Extremists.

Minto-Morley constitutional reforms (1909)

The Government of India which was headed by Lord Minto as Viceroy and John Morley as the Secretary of State offered fresh reforms in the Legislative Councils. They began discussions with Moderates within Indian National Congress regarding this. However, when the decision was taken, not just Moderates but the country as a whole were disappointed.

Major Provisions:

• The Indian Councils Act of 1909 increased the number of elected members (but most of them were still indirectly elected) in the Imperial Legislative Council and the provincial legislative councils.
• An Indian was to be appointed a member of the Governor-General’s Executive Council.
• The Act permitted members to introduce resolutions; it also increased their power to ask questions.
• Voting on separate budget items was allowed.

The real purpose of the Morley-Minto Reforms was to divide the nationalist ranks and encourage the growth of Muslim communalism. For the latter, they introduced the system of separate electorates under which Muslims could only vote for Muslim candidates in constituencies specially reserved for them.

The Ghadar Movement (1914)

The outbreak of the First World War in 1914 gave impetus to the nationalist feelings of Indians. The Home Rule League by Lokmanya Tilak and Annie Besant were formed during First World War.

At the same time, a revolutionary movement gained popularity – The Ghadar Movement. (Note: The word Ghadar means ‘revolt’)

The Ghadar Movement was an international political movement founded by expatriate Indians to overthrow British rule in India.

The early membership was composed mostly of Punjabi Indians who lived and worked on the West Coast of the United States and Canada. The movement later spread to India and Indian diasporic communities around the world.

The main leader initially was Bhagwan Singh, a Sikh priest who had worked in Hong Kong and the Malay States.

Later Har Dayal took leadership and played a crucial role in the Ghadar movement. He issued a Yugantar Circular praising the attack on the Viceroy. He urged Indians in the USA not to fight against the US but use their freedom in the US to fight the British.

The Ghadar militants toured extensively, visiting mills and farms where most of the Punjabi immigrant labour worked. The Yugantar Ashram became the home and headquarters and refuge of these political workers.

Komagatamaru Incident

• The Komagata Maru incident involved the Japanese steamship Komagata Maru, on which a group of people from British India attempted to immigrate to Canada in April 1914. Most of the ship passengers were denied entry and forced to return to Calcutta (present-day Kolkata). There, the Indian Imperial Police attempted to arrest the group leaders. A riot ensued, and they were fired upon by the police, resulting in the deaths of 22 people.
• British Government passed orders that no passenger be allowed to disembark anywhere on the way — not even at the places from where they had joined the ship — but only at Calcutta.
• It triggered off a wave of resentment and anger among the Indian community and became the occasion for anti-British mobilization.
• A number of Ghadar leaders, like Barkatullah and Tarak Nath Das, used the inflammatory passions surrounding the  Komagata Maru incident as a rallying point and successfully brought many disaffected Indians in North America into the party’s fold.

Ghadar’s weakness

• Ghadar leaders completely underestimated the extent of preparation needed at every level — organizational, ideological, strategic, tactical, and financial — that was necessary before an armed revolt could be organized.
• An almost non-existent organizational structure; the Ghadar Movement was sustained more by the enthusiasm of the militants than by their effective organization.
• The movement failed to generate an effective and sustained leadership that was capable of integrating the various aspects of the movement. Har Dayal’s ideas did not form a structured vision but remained a shifting amalgam of various theories that attracted him from time to time.
• Lacking a mass base, despite the remarkable heroism of the individual revolutionaries who operated in small secret groups, the movement could not withstand suppression by the strong colonial state.
• The Ghadar Movement came to an abrupt end with the arrest of Har Dayal.

The Home Rule Movement (1916-1918)

The Home Rule Movement under the leadership of Annie Besant and Bal Gangadhar Tilak was an important political movement that set the stage for India’s struggle for independence.

Annie Besant, who was a proponent of Free Thought, Radicalism, Fabianism and Theosophy, had come to India in 1893 to work for the Theosophical Society.

In 1914, she decided to enlarge the sphere of her activities. She started a movement for Home Rule on the lines of the Irish Home Rule League.

She realized that she needs the cooperation of both Moderates and Extremists. In the annual session of the Congress 1915, it was decided that the Extremists be allowed to rejoin the Congress along with the Moderates.

Tilak set up the Home Rule League in the Bombay Province.

The two leagues worked in different areas.

Tilak promoted the Home Rule campaign which linked the question of Swaraj with the demand for the formation of linguistic states and education in the vernacular medium.

Members of Gokhale’s Servants of India Society, though not permitted to become members of the League, encouraged the demand for Home Rule by undertaking lecture tours and publishing pamphlets.

During the Lucknow session of the Congress in December 1916, the famous Congress-League Pact was declared. Both Tilak and Annie Besant had played a role in bringing about this agreement between the Congress and the League, much against the wishes of many important leaders, including Madan Mohan Malaviya. This pact is popularly known as the Lucknow Pact where separate electorates for Muslims were accepted.

The turning point in the home rule movement came with the decision of the Government of Madras in 1917 to place Mrs Besant and her associates, B.P. Wadia and George Arundale, under arrest.

Montague Declaration was introduced by the British government as a sign of a conciliatory effort. Henceforth, Home Rule or self-government movement was not treated as a seditious activity. However, this did not mean that the British were ready to grant self-government.

In 1920 All India Home Rule League changed its name to Swarajya Sabha.

The main achievement of the Home Rule Movement was that it created a generation of ardent nationalists who formed the backbone of the national movement. In the later years, under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi , the Indian freedom struggle entered its truly mass phase.

Champaran movement in Bihar (1917)

Mahatma Gandhi, after his struggle against apartheid in South Africa (racial discrimination against blacks) for almost twenty years, returned to India in 1915.  On Gokhale’s advice, he spent a year travelling around British India to understand the problems of Indians.

He initially maintained a distance from political affairs, including the Home Rule Movement that was gathering momentum at this time.

Mahatma Gandhi began his experiments with Satyagraha against the oppressive European indigo planters at Champaran in Bihar in 1917.

Champaran issue had actually begun in the early 19th century when European planters made agreements with Indian farmers that forced them to cultivate indigo on the 3/20th of their holdings (known as the Tinkathia system).

Resistance kept surfacing within planters and cultivators, because of the exploitation measures adopted by the British behind the indigo cultivation.

In 1908 Raj Kumar Shukla, a local man persuaded Gandhiji to come to Champaran to investigate the problem. Gandhi reached Champaran but faced resistance from the Commissioner who ordered him to immediately leave the district. Gandhiji refused. He preferred to take the punishment for his defiance of the law. This step was unusual because even Home Rule leaders used to obey the Government.

The British Indian government didn’t want to create a controversy and ordered the local Government to retreat. They allowed Gandhiji to proceed with his enquiry and even nominated him as one of the enquiry members of the Government.

Meanwhile, Gandhiji started investigating the grievances of peasants along with Brij Kishore, Rajendra Prasad and other members of the Bihar intelligentsia. J.B. Kripalani toured the villages and recorded the statements of peasants.

Gandhiji had little difficulty in convincing the Commission that the Tinkathia system needed to be abolished and that the peasants should be compensated for the illegal enhancement of their dues. The Commission founder planters guilty of exploitation.

The commission of enquiry decided to make refunds to the peasants. Gandhi asked for 50%. But the representative of planters offered to refund to the extent of 25%. In order to break the deadlock, Gandhiji agreed to a 25 per cent refund to the farmers. For Gandhi, it was not the money but the principles that were of utmost importance. In his belief, the submission of British landlords was more significant than the percentage of refunds.

Ahmedabad Satyagraha in Gujarat (1918)

In Ahmedabad, a dispute was brewing between workers and mill owners over the question of a ‘plague bonus’.

The employers wanted to withdraw the bonus once the epidemic had passed but the workers insisted it stay.

The British Collector asked Gandhiji to work out a compromise. Gandhiji persuaded the mill owners and the workers to agree to arbitration.

The workers demanded a 50% wage hike while the mill owners offered only a twenty per cent wage hike. They threatened to dismiss all workers who did not accept it.

Gandhiji advised the workers to go on strike. He himself started fasting for workers.

Gandhiji was peculiar in that workers should get at least a thirty-five per cent increase in wages.

Finally, the strike was withdrawn after mill owners agreed to a thirty-five per cent increase the workers had demanded.

Anasuya Behn was one of the main lieutenants of Gandhiji in this struggle.

Kheda Satyagraha in Gujarat (1918)

The Kheda district of Gujarat was on the verge of famine owing to the failure of the crops.

The yield had been so low that the cultivators were unable to pay the revenue. But the government insisted that the cultivators should pay the tax.

Gandhi saw the justice of the cause of the cultivators. Enquiries by members of the Servants of India Society and Vithalbhai Patel too confirmed the genuineness of the peasants’ case.

Gandhiji advised the withholding of tax payments, and asked the peasants to ‘fight unto death against such a spirit of vindictiveness and tyranny’.

The peasants of Kheda, already deprived because of plague, high prices and drought, were showing signs of weakness when Gandhiji came to know that the Government had issued secret instructions directing that revenue should be recovered only from those peasants who could pay.

The Government said that if well-to-do cultivators paid up the poorer section would be granted suspension. This was agreed to and the campaign ended.

The Kheda Satyagraha marked the beginning of an awakening among the peasants of Gujarat, the beginning of their true political education. In addition, it gave the educated public workers the chance to establish contact with the actual life of the peasants.

Rowlatt Satyagraha (1919)

During the First World War of 1914-18, the British instituted censorship of the press and permitted detention without trial.

The Anarchical and Revolutionary Crimes Act of 1919, popularly known as the Rowlatt Act, was passed by the Imperial Legislative Council in Delhi on 18 March 1919, indefinitely extending the emergency measures of preventive indefinite detention, incarceration without trial and judicial review enacted in the Defence of India Act 1915 during the First World War.

It was enacted in light of a perceived threat from revolutionary nationalists to organisations of re-engaging in similar conspiracies as during the war which the Government felt the lapse of the Defence of India Act would enable.

This act was passed on the recommendations of the Sedition Committee chaired by Sir Sidney Rowlatt.

Gandhiji launched Satyagraha against the inhuman Rowlatt Act.

The protests were particularly intense in the Punjab Gandhiji was detained while proceeding there.

Jallianwala Bagh massacre (1919)

The passage of the Rowlatt Act in 1919 resulted in large-scale political unrest throughout India.

A large peaceful crowd had gathered at the Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar, Punjab to protest against the arrest of pro-Indian independence leaders Dr. Saifuddin Kitchlew and Dr. Satya Pal.

In response to the public gathering, the British Brigadier-General R. E. H. Dyer surrounded the Bagh with his soldiers.

General Dyer ordered his troops to open fire on the nationalist meeting killing hundreds. The brutality at Jallianwala Bagh stunned the entire nation.

This event caused many moderate Indians to abandon their previous loyalty to the British and become nationalists distrustful of British rule.

Non-cooperation Movement (1920)

Gandhiji called for a campaign of “non-cooperation” with British rule. Indians who wished colonialism to end were asked to stop attending schools, colleges, and law courts. They were asked to not pay taxes. In sum, they were asked to adhere to a “renunciation of all voluntary association with the British Government”.

Gandhiji said that if non-cooperation was effectively carried out India would win swaraj within a year.

When Congress met for its annual session at Nagpur, C.R. Das moved the main resolution on non-cooperation. Many groups of revolutionary terrorists, especially in Bengal, also pledged support to the movement.

The goal of the Congress, by this time, changed from the attainment of self-government by constitutional means to the attainment of Swaraj by peaceful means.

Khilafat Movement (1919-24)

The Khilafat movement was a political protest campaign launched by Muslims of British India to restore the caliph of the Ottoman Caliphate, who was considered the leader of the Muslims.

To further broaden the Indian freedom struggle, Gandhiji joined hands with the Khilafat Movement.

The movement collapsed by late 1922 when Turkey gained a more favourable diplomatic position and moved towards Nationalism. By 1924, Turkey abolished the role of the caliph.

However, the tremendous participation of Muslims in the Non-Cooperation Movement and the maintenance of communal unity, despite the Malabar developments, was in itself no mean achievement.

Chauri Chaura incident (1922)

On 4 February 1922, at Chauri Chaura (a place in modern Uttar Pradesh), the British police opened fire at a large group of people who were participating in the Non-cooperation movement.

In retaliation, the demonstrators attacked and set fire to a police station, killing all of its occupants. The incident led to the death of three civilians and 22 policemen.

Mahatma Gandhi, who was strictly against violence, halted the non-cooperation movement on the national level on 12 February 1922, as a direct result of the Chauri Chaura incident.

In spite of Gandhi’s decision, 19 arrested demonstrators were sentenced to death and 14 to imprisonment for life by the British colonial authorities.

Motilal Nehru, C.R. Das, Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhas Bose, and many others recorded their disagreement on Gandhiji’s views.

Bardoli Satyagraha in Gujarat (1928)

In January 1926, the officer charged with the duty of reassessment of the land revenue demand of the taluq had recommended a 30% increase over the existing assessment.

The Congress leaders were quick to protest against the increase and set up the Bardoli Inquiry Committee to go into the issue.

In July 1927, the Government reduced the enhancement to 21.97 per cent. But the concessions were too meagre and came too late to satisfy anybody.

The constitutionalist leaders now began to advise the peasants to resist by paying only the current amount and withholding the enhanced amount.

Gradually as the limitations of constitutional leadership became more apparent, Vallabhbhai Patel was invited to lead the campaign.

The government ignored Vallabhai’s request which resulted in the start of Bardoli Satyagraha.

The no-tax movement was launched in Bardoli taluq of Surat district in Gujarat in 1928.

The main mobilization was done through extensive propaganda via meetings, speeches, pamphlets, and door-to-door persuasion. Special emphasis was placed on the mobilization of women and many women activists were recruited for the purpose.

Members of the Bombay Legislative Council like K.M. Munshi and Lalji Naranji, the representatives of the Indian Merchants Chamber, resigned their seats.

The government was forced to conduct an inquiry. The inquiry was done by a judicial officer, Broomfield, and a revenue officer, Maxwell. They came to the conclusion that the increase had been unjustified. The government later reduced the enhancement to 6.03 per cent.

The boycott of the Simon Commission (1927)

On 8 November 1927, an all-white, Simon Commission was appointed to recommend whether India was ready for further constitutional reforms.

Indian National Congress boycott Simon Commission because no Indian was present in the commission. There were protests in many places.

In Lahore, Lala Lajpat Rai, the hero of the extremist days and the most revered leader of Punjab was hit. He succumbed to the injuries in November 1928.

Bhagat Singh and his comrades sought to avenge the death of Lala Lajpat Rai. They killed the white police official, Saunders, in December 1928.

Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhas Bose emerged as the leaders during the Simon Commission boycott movement.

Nehru Report (1928) and the attempt to draft the Indian Constitution

Britain did not acknowledge the right of Indians to frame their own constitution.

British policy, until almost the end of the Raj, was that the timing and nature of Indian constitutional development were to be decided exclusively by the British Parliament, but it was assumed that Indians would be consulted as appropriate.

In December 1927, at its Madras session, the Indian National Congress took two major decisions in response to the setting up the Simon Commission: first, it decided to not cooperate with the Commission; second, it set up an All Parties Conference to draft a Constitution for India.

The committee of the All Parties Conference to draft the Constitution was chaired by Motilal Nehru  with his son  Jawaharlal Nehru acting as a secretary. There were nine other members in this committee.

The report submitted by the committee in 1928 was called the Nehru Report – which was actually a memorandum to appeal for dominion status and a federal set-up of government for the constitution of India.

The Nehru Report also rejected the principle of separate communal electorates on which previous constitutional reforms had been based. Seats would be reserved for Muslims at the Centre and in provinces in which they were in a minority, but not in those where they had a numerical majority.

The Nehru Report also recommended universal adult suffrage, equal rights for women, freedom to form unions, and dissociation of the state from religion in any form.

However, Jinnah withdrew his support to the report and proposed his ‘Fourteen Points’ which were basically a reiteration of his objections to the Nehru Report.

Young and radical nationalists led by Jawaharlal Nehru had objections to the Nehru Report of Motilal Nehru. Their slogan was ‘Complete Independence.’

Purna Swaraj or Complete Independence Campaign (1929)

In the Lahore session in 1929, Jawaharlal Nehru was made the President of INC. He declared ‘Purna Swaraj’ or Complete Independence as the only honourable goal Indians could strive for.

On the banks of the river Ravi, at midnight on 31 December 1929, the tricolour flag of Indian independence was hosted.

The first task that the Congress set itself in the new year was that of organizing all over the country public meetings at which the Independence Pledge would be read out and collectively affirmed on 26 January.

Civil Disobedience Movement and Dandi March (1930)

The Lahore Session of Congress (1929) authorized the Working Committee to launch a programme of civil disobedience including non-payment of taxes.

Gandhi’s ultimatum to Lord Irwin, stating the minimum demands in the form of 11 points, had been ignored, and there was now only one way out: civil disobedience. Gandhi selected salt as his main tool of disobedience.

In every Indian household, salt was indispensable; yet people were forbidden from making salt even for domestic use, compelling them to buy it from shops at a high price. The state monopoly over salt was deeply unpopular. By making salt his target, Gandhiji hoped to mobilise a wider discontent against British rule.

Gandhi, along with a band of seventy-eight members of the Sabarmati Ashram started to march from Ahmedabad to the coast at Dandi. There he broke the salt laws by collecting salt from the beach.

On 6 April 1930, by picking up a handful of salt, Gandhi inaugurated the Civil Disobedience Movement – a movement that was to remain unsurpassed in the history of the Indian national movement for the country-wide mass participation it unleashed.

Like other parts of India, the civil disobedience movement was also launched in North-West Frontier Province (Khyber–Pakhtoonkhwa). The local Congress sought help from the Khudai Khidmatgars, the most popular socio-political organization in the province.

Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan’s Khudai Khidmatgars, popularly known as the Red Shirts,  played an extremely active role in the Civil Disobedience Movement.

The city came under the control of the masses for at least a week and the soldiers of the Garhwali regiment refused to fire at the unarmed crowds of Peshwar demonstrations.

Nehru’s arrest on 14th April was followed by public protests in Madras, Calcutta and Karachi.

The Salt March was notable for at least three reasons:

• It was this event that first brought Mahatma Gandhi to world attention.
• It was the first nationalist activity in which women participated in large numbers. Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay had persuaded Gandhi for this issue.
• It was the Salt March that forced upon the British the realisation that their Raj would not last forever, and that they would have to devolve some power to the Indians.

Gandhi-Irwin Pact (1931) and the Round Table Conferences (1930-32)

British convened a series of “Round Table Conferences” in London to discuss constitutional reforms in India.

The first meeting was held in November 1930. However, without the pre-eminent political leader in India, it was an exercise in futility.

Gandhi was released from jail in January 1931. In the following month, he had several long meetings with the Viceroy. These culminated in what was called the “Gandhi-Irwin Pact’.

The terms of the agreement included the immediate release of all political prisoners not convicted for violence, the remission of all fines not yet collected, the return of confiscated lands not yet sold to third parties, and lenient treatment for those government employees who had resigned. The Government also conceded the right to make salt for consumption to villages along the coast. They also gave the right to peaceful and non-aggressive picketing.

The Congress’s demand for a public inquiry into police excesses was not accepted, but Gandhiji’s insistent request for an inquiry was recorded in the agreement.

Congress, on its part, agreed to discontinue the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM).

A second Round Table Conference was held in London in the latter part of 1931. Here, Gandhiji represented the Congress. Gandhi opposed the demand for separate electorates for “lower castes”. For him, separate electorates to the “Untouchables” will ensure their bondage in perpetuity. He thought this would prevent their integration into mainstream society and permanently segregate them from other caste Hindus.

But Ambedkar was in favour of separate electorates for depressed classes. He believed it is the only path for a community so handicapped to succeed in the struggle for life against the organised tyranny of higher castes.

During the second Round Table Conference in London, Winston Churchill, leader of the right wing, strongly objected to the British Government negotiating on terms of equality with the ‘seditious fakir’. He demanded a strong government in India.

The discussions with Gandhi failed as the British Government refused to concede the basic Indian demand for freedom. Gandhiji resumed Civil Disobedience after reaching back

The government launched its strike against the national movement by arresting Gandhi. British government promulgated ordinances that gave the authorities unlimited power – the ‘Civil Martial Law.’ Civil liberties no longer existed and the authorities could seize people and property at will.

In 1934 the inevitable decision to withdraw Civil Disobedience Movement was taken by Gandhi.

However, many political activists were not in favour of stopping the movement. They included Jawaharlal Nehru who was critical of Gandhiji’s decisions regarding the timing of the withdrawal of CDM.

The support that the movement had garnered from the poor and the illiterate, both in the town and in the country, was remarkable indeed.

Nevertheless, the participation of Muslims in the Civil Disobedience Movement was certainly nowhere near that of the Non-cooperation movement 1920-22.

For Indian women, the movement was the most liberating experience to date and can truly be said to have marked their entry into the public space.

The Communal Award (1932)

After the Third Round Table Conference, in November 1932, the then Prime Minister of Britain Ramsay McDonald gave an order which is known as the Communal Award.

It was part of Britain’s policy of ‘Divide and Rule.

The award granted separate electorates in British India for the Forward Caste, Lower Caste, Muslims, Buddhists, Sikhs, Indian Christians, Anglo-Indians, Europeans and Untouchables (Dalits) etc.

The Congress Party was unhappy at the extension of communal representation but became particularly outraged at the British offer of separate-electorate seats for “depressed classes”.

Gandhi viewed the McDonald Award as a nefarious British plot to wean more than 50 million Hindus away from their higher-caste brothers and sisters.

The idea of a separate electorate for Muslims had been accepted by Congress as far back as 1916 as a part of the compromise with the Muslim League. Hence, Congress took the position it was opposed to separate electorates but not in favour of changing the Award without the consent of the minorities.

Gandhi demanded that the representatives of the Depressed Classes should be elected if possible by the universal, common franchise. At the same time, he did not object to the demand for a larger number of reserved seats for the Depressed Classes. He went on a fast unto death on 20 September 1932 to enforce his demand.

In the end, political leaders succeeded in bringing an agreement, known as the Poona Pact.

In this pact, the idea of separate electorates for the Depressed Classes was abandoned but the seats reserved for them in the provincial legislatures and Central Legislature were increased.

After being released from prison Gandhiji shifted to Satyagraha Ashram at Wardha after abandoning Sabarmati Ashram at Ahmedabad for he had vowed in 1930 not to return to Sabarmati till Swaraj was won.

Government of India Act (1935)

The growing demand for constitutional reforms in India led the British Parliament to enact the Government of India Act 1935.

The Act promised some form of representative government.

The Act provided the establishment of an All-India Federation based on the union of British Indian provinces and the Princely States.

Defence and foreign affairs would remain outside the control of the federal legislature, while the Viceroy would retain special control over other subjects.

Governors, appointed by the British Government, retained special powers. They could veto legislative and administrative measures, especially those concerning minorities, the rights of civil servants, law and order, and British business interests.

The Governor also had the power to take over and indefinitely run the administration of a province.

The Act of 1935 was condemned and unanimously rejected by Congress. The Congress demanded the convening of a Constituent Assembly elected on the basis of adult franchise to frame a constitution for an independent India.

Resignation of Congress ministries (1939)

Congress won the elections to the provincial assemblies held in February 1937. Its election manifesto reaffirmed its total rejection of the 1935 Act.

One of the first acts of the Congress Government was to release thousands of political prisoners and to cancel deportation orders on political workers.

The difference between the Congress provinces and the non-Congress provinces of Bengal and Punjab was most apparent in this realm. In the latter, especially in Bengal, civil liberties continued to be curbed and they never released prisoners.

However, Congress could not attempt a complete overhaul of the agrarian structure by completely eliminating the Zamindari system .

Later the Second World War broke out. Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru promised Congress support to the war effort if the British, in return, promised to grant India independence once hostilities ended. The offer was refused. Gandhi withdrew support to the British in War.

The Congress ministries resigned in October and November 1939, in protest against Viceroy Lord Linlithgow’s action of declaring India to be belligerent in the Second World War without consulting the Indian people.

The resignations brought the Left and the Right in Congress closer because of a common policy on the question of participation in the war.

Crisis at Tripuri (1939)

Subhas Bose had been a unanimous choice as the President of Congress in 1938. In 1939, he decided to stand again — this time as the spokesperson of militant politics and radical groups.

However, with the blessings of Gandhiji, Sardar Patel, Rajendra Prasad, J.B. Kripalani other leaders put up Pattabhi Sitaramayya as a candidate for the post.

Bose accused Patel and other top leaders of Congress as ‘rightists’. He openly accused them of working for a compromise with the Government on the question of the federation. Bose had, therefore, appealed to Congressmen to vote for a leftist and ‘a genuine anti-federationist.’

Nevertheless, in reality, the difference between ‘right’ and ‘left’ was not very vivid within the Congress and most Congressmen were anti-federationist.

Subhas Bose won the election on 29 January on the popularity of his militant politics but only by a narrow margin – 1580 votes against 1377.

But the election of Bose brought the brewing crisis to a head at the Tripuri session of the Congress.

Gandhiji declared that Sitaramayya’s defeat was ‘more mine than his.

Bose argued in his presidential address at Tripuri for a programme of immediately giving the British Government a six-month ultimatum to grant the national demand for independence and of launch a mass civil disobedience movement if it failed to do so.

Subhas Bose believed that the Congress was strong enough to bunch an immediate struggle and that the masses were ready for such a struggle.

However, Gandhi’s perceptions were very different. Gandhi believed the time was not yet ripe for an ultimatum because neither Congress nor the masses were yet ready for struggle.

The internal strife reached its climax at the Tripuri session of the Congress, held from 8 to 12 March 1939.

Bose had completely misjudged his support and the meaning of his majority in the presidential election. Congressmen had voted for him not because they wanted to have him as the supreme leader of the national movement – but mainly because of his policies and militant politics. They were not willing to reject Gandhi’s leadership or his views.

Bose resigned from the presidency. This led to the election of Rajendra Prasad in his place.

Subsequently, Subhas Bose and his followers formed the Forward Bloc as a new party within Congress.

As Bose planned a protest against an AICC resolution, the Working Committee removed Bose from the presidentship of the Bengal Provincial Congress Committee and debarred him from holding any Congress office for three years.

Individual Satyagraha (1940)

Gandhiji decided to initiate a limited satyagraha on an individual basis by a few selected individuals in every locality. The demand of a satyagrahi was for the freedom of speech to preach against participation in the War.

The satyagrahi would beforehand inform the district magistrate of the time and place where he or she was going to make the anti-war speech. If the Government did not arrest a satyagrahi, he or she would not only repeat the performance but move into the villages and start a trek towards Delhi, thus participating in a movement that came to be known as the ‘Delhi Chalo’ (onwards to Delhi) movement.

Vinoba Bhave was to be the first satyagrahi on 17 October 1940 and Jawaharlal Nehru the second.

Individual Satyagraha served a dual purpose — (1) it gave expression to the Indian people’s strong political feelings, (2) it gave the British Government another opportunity to peacefully accept the Indian demands.

Cripps Mission (1942)

The Cripps Mission was a failed attempt in late March 1942 by the British government to secure full Indian cooperation and support for their efforts in World War II.

The mission was headed by a senior minister Sir Stafford Cripps, traditionally sympathetic to Indian self-rule.

However, he was also a member of the coalition War Cabinet led by Prime Minister Winston Churchill, who had long been the leader of the movement to block Indian independence.

Churchill was persuaded to send Sir Stafford Cripps, to India to try and forge a compromise with Gandhiji and the Congress.

The Declaration promised India Dominion Status and a constitution-making body after the War. He proposed that the Constitutional Assembly members would be elected by the provincial assemblies and nominated by the rulers in the case of the princely states.

At that time, the demand for a separate nation for Muslims – Pakistan – also got momentum.

The Pakistan demand was accommodated by the provision that any province which was not prepared to accept the new constitution would have the right to sign a separate agreement with Britain regarding its future status.

Talks broke down, when, Congress objected to the provision for Dominion Status rather than full independence.

Congress insisted that if it was to help the British defend India from the Axis powers, then the Viceroy had first to appoint an Indian as the Defence Member of his Executive Council.

After the failure of the Cripps Mission, Mahatma Gandhi decided to launch the “Quit India” campaign also known as the ‘August Revolution’.

Quit India Movement (1942)

The Quit India Movement was launched at the Bombay session of the All India Congress Committee by  Mahatma Gandhi  on 8 August 1942, during World War II, demanding an end to British rule in India.

In this struggle, the common people of the country demonstrated unparalleled heroism and militancy.

However, the repression that they faced was the most brutal that had ever been used against the national movement.

At the historic August meeting at Gowalia Tank in Bombay, Gandhiji was particular about complete freedom and no more piece-meal approach from the British.

He proclaimed: ‘Do or Die’ – which meant either free India or die in the attempt.

Gandhi asked government servants to openly declare their allegiance to congress and not to resign.

In the meantime, underground networks were consolidated in various parts of the country. The prominent members of underground activities were Achyut Patwardhan, Aruna Asaf Ali, Ram Manohar Lohia, and Sucheta Kripalani.

The pattern of activity of the underground movement was that of organizing the disruption of communications by blowing up bridges, cutting telegraph and telephone wires, and derailing trains.

Congress Radio operated clandestinely from different locations in Bombay city, whose broadcast could be heard as far as Madras. Usha Mehta was an important member of the small group that ran the Congress Radio.

A significant feature of the Quit India Movement was the emergence of what came to be known as parallel governments in some parts of the country. Satara (Maharashtra) emerged as the base of the longest-lasting and most effective parallel government.

A significant feature of peasant activity was its total concentration on attacking symbols of British authority and a total lack of any incidents of anti-zamindar violence.

In February 1943, Gandhiji declared the fast in Aga Khan Palace where he was held in detention, as this was his answer to the Government which had been constantly exhorting him to condemn the violence of the people in the Quit India Movement. Gandhiji not only refused to condemn the people’s resort to violence but unequivocally held the Government responsible for it.

The resignation of the three Indian members of the Viceroy’s Executive Council, M.S. Aney, N.R. Sarkar and H.P. Mody, who never wished Gandhi to suffer, made a severe blow to the British.

Finally, the Congress leaders were released to participate in the Simla Conference in June 1945. That marked the end of the phase of confrontation that had existed since August 1942.

Simla Conference (1945) and the Wavell Plan

The Simla Conference of 1945 was a meeting between the Viceroy of India (Lord Wavell) and the major political leaders of British India at the Viceregal Lodge in Simla.

Wavell proposed a separate representation of Muslims within a united India. Talks, however, stalled on the issue of the selection of Muslim representatives. The All-India Muslim League claimed to be the sole representative of Indian Muslims. The Indian National Congress opposed this claim as the Congress had more Muslims in its support than the Muslim League.

This scuttled the conference, and perhaps the last viable opportunity for a united, independent India.

On 14 June 1945 Lord Wavell announced a plan for a new Executive Council in which all members except the Viceroy and the Commander in Chief would be Indians. This executive council was to be a temporary measure until a new permanent constitution could be agreed upon and come into force.

RIN Mutiny (1946)

The Royal Indian Navy (RIN) revolt started in February 1946 at Mumbai when the naval ratings on HMIS Talwar protested against the poor quality of food and racial discrimination by British officers.

From the initial flashpoint in Mumbai, the revolt spread and found support throughout India, from Karachi to Kolkata, and ultimately came to involve over 20,000 sailors in 78 ships and shore establishments.

Karachi was a major centre, second only to Bombay. Sympathetic strikes took place in military establishments in Madras, Vishakhapatnam, Calcutta, Delhi, Cochin, Jamnagar, the Andamans, Bahrain and Aden.

A revolt in the armed forces, even if soon suppressed, had a great liberating effect on the minds of people.

The naval mutiny proved to be the last nail in the coffin of British colonial aspirations in India.

India was seen to be on the brink of a revolution. The mutiny witnessed the demoralization of British officials and the changing loyalties of Indian officials.

However, communal unity evident in the RIN revolt was limited despite the Congress, League and Communist flags being jointly hoisted on the ships’ masts. Muslim ratings went to the League to seek advice on future action for Pakistan.

The  Indian National Congress  and the  Muslim League  condemned the mutiny, while the  Communist Party of India  was the only party that supported the rebellion.

The mutiny was suppressed by British troops and Royal Navy warships.

The revolt was called off following a meeting between the President of the Naval Central Strike Committee (NCSC), M. S. Khan, and Sardar Vallabhai Patel who had been sent to Bombay to settle the crisis.

Mountbatten Plan (1947)

The legislature representatives of the Indian National Congress, the Muslim League, and the Sikh community came to an agreement with Lord Mountbatten on what has come to be known as the 3 June Plan or Mountbatten Plan. This plan was the last plan for independence.

The plan announced by the Viceroy Mountbatten on 3 June 1947 included these principles:

• The principle of the partition of British India was accepted by the British Government.
• Successor governments would be given dominion status.
• Autonomy and sovereignty to both countries.
• The successor governments could make their own constitution
• The Princely States were given the right to join either Pakistan or India, based on two major factors: Geographical contiguity and the people’s wishes.

The Mountbatten plan led to the enactment of the India Independence Act of 1947.

India Independence Act (1947)

The Indian Independence Act of 1947 passed by the Parliament of the United Kingdom divided British India into two new independent dominions; the Dominion of India ( later to become the Republic of India ) and the Dominion of Pakistan ( later to become the Islamic Republic of Pakistan ).

This Act received Royal Assent on 18 July 1947.

India and Pakistan became independent on August 15th, 1947.

India continues to celebrate August 15th as her Independence day, while Pakistan chose to celebrate August 14th as her Independence day as per their cabinet decisions.

Learn more about India’s Struggle for Independence

Hope you liked the mega article on the Indian freedom struggle.

This article on India’s struggle for independence is the 6th part of the article series on Modern Indian History. Click the link to read the  6-part framework to study modern Indian History . This is an easy-to-learn approach to mastering the history of modern India as a story.

Apart from the 6-part approach, we have also published many other articles on  Indian History , which can be accessed from the  ClearIAS Study materials  section.

If you loved this article, please subscribe to ClearIAS and share this post with your friends.

Books referred to prepare this article on India’s Struggle for Independence

• NCERT Books Class 6-12
• History Of Modern India by Bipan Chandra
• India’s struggle for independence by Bipan Chandra
• Modern Indian History by Sonali Bansal and Snehil Tripathi

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“India’s Struggle for Independence” on ClearIAS is a comprehensive and enlightening read. The blog beautifully captures the essence of India’s journey towards freedom, providing valuable historical context and key insights. It’s an essential resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of India’s rich and inspiring struggle for independence.

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History of India’s Independence

Over the course of history, India has faced several invasions. While most of the invaders made their intentions clear right from the word go, the British managed to bring India under their control through a business venture. It all started with the British East India Company, which started off as a mere joint-stock company, but slowly went about spreading its wings and influence, before the British government finally took control of the entire country. 

The British company had landed in India in the early seventeenth century as traders, but began interfering in Indian affairs around 1750s. After the battle of Plassey (1757), it began to transform from a trading company to a ruling force. As the British began to spread their tentacles over a large part of India, the exploitation of local resources and people began in full force. The British were concerned just about consolidating their rule and power. 

The British rule had a damaging effect on the social, economic, cultural and political life of Indians, which gradually forced common masses and rulers to rise in revolt against the British rule. Several agrarian, tribal, and political rebellions broke out against the foreign rule, but it was the rebellion of 1857, which proved as a launch pad for all the subsequent struggles against the British rule. 

The continuously increasing awareness, contact with the outside world, and the urge to free the motherland, gave rise to an organized movement by the end of the nineteenth century, which uprooted the 200-year-old British rule in 1947.

The History of British Colonialism in India 

After the fall of the Mughal Empire, the British gained the support of many local rulers by offering them help against their adversaries. Since the British were equipped with huge cannons and newer war technology their support proved helpful to many Indian rulers. In exchange for their support, the East India Company managed to set up trading centers in places like Madras, Calcutta and Bombay. The British gradually started to extend their fortification. When they were asked to stop their extension by Siraj-ud-daulah, the Nawab of Bengal, they defeated him in the Battle of Plassey (1757). This win against Siraj-ud-daulah played a crucial role in colonizing the whole of India.      

Early Rebellions Against the British Rule

For their short-term benefit, many Indian rulers supported the British colonization in India, but many of them opposed the idea of foreign rule. This created a conflict between Indian rulers, which was further used by the British to their advantage. Among the early rebellion, South Indian rulers, such as Puli Thevar, Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan, Pazhassi Raja, Rani Velu Nachiyar, Veerapandiya Kattabomman, Dheeran Chinnamalai, Maruthu Pandiyar, etc. revolted against the British and fought several wars and battles. 

Many rulers like Hyder Ali and Dheeran Chinnamalai sought the help of Maratha rulers in their fight against the British. 

Agitated by the ill-impact of the British rule on the social, cultural, tribal, and economic fabric of society, many individuals like Sidhu Murmu, Kanhu Murmu and Tilka Manjhi stood up against the British colonization. 

While the British managed to defeat bigger ruler like Tipu Sultan via local alliances (supporting one ruler against the other), they did not have must difficulty in suppressing local agrarian and tribal rebellions. The British not only used better weapons, but they also resorted to devious tactics like the ‘divide and rule policy’ in to consolidate their rule and might.             

Even though the British tried their best to suppress rebellions across India, these revolts would not stop as the British not only subjected people to a foreign rule but also exploited people economically.

The Revolt of 1857

Often referred to as the ‘First War of Indian Independence,’ the revolt of 1857 was the result of a series of incidents, but the immediate reason for the revolt was the issue of ‘greased cartridges.’ The East India Company mistreated the Indian soldiers and discriminated between the Indian and the European soldiers. While the soldiers knew that the British were using factors like religion and caste against them, the news of the newly introduced Enfield P-53 rifles using cartridges made out of fat extracted from beef and pork sparked a widespread rebellion against the British. Since the soldiers had to bite the cartridge in order to load the rifle, it did not go down well with the Hindu and Muslim soldiers as it hurt their religious belief. Since consuming beef and pork is against the religious beliefs of Hindus and Muslims respectively, the allegation convinced Indian soldiers that the British were trying to convert them into Christians. 

This, along with many other factors, played a crucial role in the revolt of the soldiers. Many Indian rulers from different states followed suit and locked horns with the British. At the end of it all, at least 800,000 people, including many civilians, were killed. As a result of the rebellion, the British government took control of the administration of India from the East India Company.

Organized Movements

The revolt of 1857 was the first large-scale rebellion against the British rule, and inspired the future generation to fight for the independence of the motherland. Slowly and gradually many organizations were formed that started to demand for some sort of self-governance and rights for Indians. 

In 1867, Dadabhai Naoroji founded the East India Association, while Surendranath Banerjee came up with the Indian National Association in 1876. 

With more and more people coming up with the demand for more rights, several prominent people came forward and decided to form a platform that will demand for self rights and self governance. It led to the formation of the Indian National Congress in 1885.

Since the British failed to grant even the moderate demands set by the Congress, many Indians started questioning the moderate leaders of the Congress, and advocated more radical approach in dealing with the British, which gave rise to several revolutionary organizations that advocated use of force and violence. 

Works done by socio-religious groups like Brahmo Samaj and Arya Samaj played a crucial role in creating awareness among Indians. The works of reformers like Swami Vivekananda, Rabindranath Tagore, V. O. Chidambaram Pillai and Subramanya Bharathy evoked a sense of nationalism among Indians.

The Rise of Nationalism

Radical leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak straightway pushed for self-rule for Indians. Tilak was also saddened by the fact that the education system of the British government did not portray India’s history and culture in a positive light. He advocated complete freedom (Swaraj) and managed to inspire many Indians with his famous slogan, “Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it.” He was joined by other like-minded leaders like Bipin Chandra Pal and Lala Lajpat Rai. The trio together came to be known as ‘Lal-Bal-Pal,’ but they were expelled from the Congress for advocating violence and disorder. However, they had done enough to instill nationalism into the minds of thousands of Indians. 

The Partition of Bengal

Since pre-independent Bengal was as big as France in terms of its geography, the then Viceroy and Governor-General, Lord Curzon, ordered the partition of Bengal in 1905. He argued that the partition would lead to a better administration and ease the rising conflict between the Hindus and the Muslims. 

The Indian nationalists, however, believed that the move was an attempt to slow down the momentum gathered by the recent nationalist movements. They also believed that Lord Curzon was employing the divide and rule policy to create a rift between Hindus and Muslims. This led to a large-scale protest against the British rule, including boycotting British products and publications of several rebellious newspapers and articles. The government was eventually forced to reunite Bengal in 1911. But a new partition, based on the languages spoken, was created soon after. The partition of Bengal left an indelible mark on the people and political scenario of Bengal. 

The Rise of the Muslim League

In 1886, Syed Ahmed Khan, an Islamic reformist and philosopher, founded the All India Muhammadan Educational Conference. The conference was set-up in an attempt to provide quality education to Indian Muslims. The conference organized annual meetings to discuss various methods to improve the quality of education, among other things. In 1906, during the 20th session of the conference, the members decided to set up a political party called the ‘All India Muslim League.’ After the creation of the All India Muslim League, the party strived towards achieving equal civil rights for the Muslim population in India. Slowly and gradually, the Muslim league started to propagate the theory that the Indian National Congress was a pro-Hindu outfit, and that the political party was incapable of ensuring equal rights for the Muslim community in India. This belief found many takers, and slowly and gradually more and more Muslim leaders started contemplating the idea of creating another political entity where Muslims would form the majority.

National Movement & the First World War

The national movement started picking-up at the end of the nineteenth century and by the turn of the new century it had gathered a critical mass, which would propel it further in the coming years. More and more people were joining hands with nationalist leaders and the Congress to raise the demand of self-rule. Led by leaders like Lala Lajpat Rai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal and V. O. Chidambaram Pillai, more and more commoners began to protest against the British government. 

Though the Indian National Congress was still advocating the importance of the British rule, people had begun to participate in mass movements, which inspired others as well. Meanwhile, just before the beginning of the First World War, the British government had promised special benefits to India in return for their support during the First World War. As many as 1.3 million Indian soldiers were sent to places like the Middle East, Europe and Africa to fight for the British in the First World War. Also, many individual rulers of different princely states supported the British by sending large supplies of money, food and ammunition. 

The Arrival of Mahatma Gandhi

Gandhi had mastered the methods of civil disobedience through non-violent means in South Africa, where he worked as a barrister. In 1914, many political prisoners were freed by General Jan Smuts, thanks to Gandhi's non-violent protests. Impressed by his methods, a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress Gopal Krishna Gokhale requested Gandhi to return to India and join the national movement. Upon his arrival, Gandhi joined the Indian National Congress and accepted Gopal Krishna Gokhale as his mentor. He then went on to establish Satyagraha ashram and led a Satyagraha campaign in 1917. For the next three years, Gandhiji led many non-violent protests that included Satyagraha and fasting. The Kheda Satyagraha and the Champaran satyagraha were some of the early movements where he applied the concept of Satygraha to fight for the rights of farmers and other peasants.

The Non-Cooperation Movement

In 1919, Brigadier-General Reginald Dyer ordered to shoot at a peaceful gathering of men, women and children in Jallianwala Bagh, who had gathered to celebrate Baisakhi and to condemn the arrest of Dr. Saifuddin Kitchlew and Satya Pal. This inhuman act of the British sent shockwaves across India, and received strong criticism and protests all over India. Mahatma Gandhi too denounced this cowardly behavior and strongly condemned it. 

The national movement was slowly building-up and the Jallianwalah Bagh incident played an important role in the start of the ‘Non-cooperation Movement.’ It was the first big Satyagraha movement under Gandhi’s leadership. He requested the support of other political and religious leaders and gave a call to Indians to stop using British products. 

Gandhiji advocated the use of Khadi over British textiles. He also asked government servants to quit their jobs, and return the British titles and honors. Many Indians refused to pay taxes and many teachers and lawyers gave up their respective profession. The non-co-operation movement became a huge success throughout India until it was called off by Gandhiji in the wake of the Chauri Chaura incident, in which three civilians and 22 policemen were killed.   

The Non-cooperation movement had seen an unprecedented and large-scale participation from the people of all regions and status. The entire country was transformed into a different zone and the protests were largely successful, but the unfortunate incident at Chauri Chaura forced Gandhi to call the movement off. He said that people were still not ready for mass-movements of this nature. 

The decision to call-off the non-cooperation movement left many disappointed and was criticized by several leaders.

Revolutionary Movement & its Role in Freedom Movement

While the Indian National Congress, led by leaders like Gopal Krishna Gokhale and Mahatma Gandhi, advocated civil disobedience and non-violent protests, many firebrand leaders believed in overthrowing the British with the use of force. The revolutionary movement had begun as early as the late 1750s, but it was during the Partition of Bengal that it began to take shape. Under the leadership of Barin Ghosh, many revolutionaries began to collect arms and explosives. They even started manufacturing bombs and some were even sent to foreign countries to acquire knowledge about bomb-making and other military training. 

By 1924, Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) was formed and firebrand revolutionaries like Chandrashekhar Azad, Bhagat Singh, Ashfaqullah Khan, Ramprasad Bismil, Shivaram Rajguru, Surya Sen, etc. began to involve themselves in various revolutionary activities. Some of the famous revolutionary activities include Alipore bomb conspiracy, Chittagong armoury raid, Kakori train robbery, Delhi-Lahore conspiracy case, etc.

Azand Hind Fauz

Subhas Chandra Bose quit the Indian National Congress and travelled to many countries to seek help for India’s independence. Bose wanted to raise an Indian army to fight against the British. Based on Hitler’s advice, he went to Japan and formed the Indian National Army (Azad Hind Government). During the Second World War, the Indian National Army managed to capture Andaman and Nicobar islands with the help of the Japanese army. However, the setback to Japan in the Second World War impacted the prospects of the INA as well and it’s march was blocked on the Border and many soldiers and officers were arrested.

Quit India Movement

As the World War II progressed, Mahatma Gandhi intensified his protests for the complete independence of India. He drafted a resolution calling for the British to Quit India. The 'Quit India Movement' or the 'Bharat Chhodo Andolan' was the most aggressive movement launched by the Indian National Congress. Gandhi was arrested on 9th August 1942, and was held for two years at the Aga Khan Palace in Pune. The Quit India Movement came to an end by the end of 1943, when the British gave hints that complete power would be transferred to the people of India. Gandhi called off the movement which resulted in the release of 100,000 political prisoners.

Partition & Independence of India

Though prominent leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru were not willing to accept the formula of partition based on religion, but communal clashes between religious groups hastened the creation of Pakistan. The independence cum partition proposal offered by the British Cabinet Mission in 1946 was accepted by the Congress. Sardar Patel convinced Gandhi that it was the only way to avoid civil war and the Mahatma reluctantly gave his consent. The British Parliament passed the famous Indian Independence Act 1947, and on August 14, Pakistan was declared a free nation. Few minutes later at 12:02 am, India became a democratic nation, much to the joy and relief of the entire Indian subcontinent. 

After India's independence, Gandhiji focused on peace and unity among the Hindus and Muslims. He began a fast-unto-death in Delhi, asking for all communal violence to be stopped and the payment of Rs. 55 crores, as per the Partition Council agreement, to be made to Pakistan. Ultimately, all political leaders conceded to his wishes. 

The Constituent Assembly was given the responsibility of creating the constitution. Headed by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the constitution was adopted on 26 November 1949. On 26 January 1950, the Constitution of India came into effect.

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Essay On Freedom Struggle Of India | Indian Freedom Struggle Essay

Essay On Freedom Struggle Of India | Indian Freedom Struggle Essay Hello Friend, In this post “ Essay On Freedom Struggle Of India | Indian Freedom Struggle Essay “, We will read about the overview of the Indian Freedom Struggle as an Essay in detail. So…

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Essay On Freedom Struggle Of India In 500+ Words

Introduction the indian freedom struggle has great importance in the history of india . the people of entire india fought a lot to get the country freedom from the slavery of the british..

For the sake of freedom, our great freedom fighters sacrificed their lives by laughing without worrying about their lives.

If, at that time, the countrymen had not raised their voice against the British, then perhaps even today the country would have been slavery to the British.

The Arrival Of British In India

Initially, the British came to India in the year 1600 with the objective of doing business under the name of East India Company .

Under the guise of silk, tea, and the cotton trade , he started spreading chaos in India and gradually made the country his slave.

And after that, the British took the rule of the entire country into their hands and started persecuting the Indians.

And due to this, gradually the demand for freedom started arising in the country.

The Revolt Of 1857

Fed up with the dictatorship of the British, the countrymen decided to end British rule.

And in the year 1857, the first freedom struggle was started by an Indian soldier Mangal Pandey .

This struggle was a great event against British rule.

This struggle was not accidental but a result of the discontent of the entire century. A great plan was made and implemented for this.

The revolt of 1857 which began with the revolt of military personnel in Meerut soon spread throughout India and posed a serious challenge to British rule.

Along with soldiers, common citizens, large princely states of the country also participated in this struggle.

Rani Lakshmi Bai of Jhansi fought a glorious war against the British and led her forces.

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Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs , and all other brave sons of India fought against the British and resolved to remove British rule from the country.

This revolution was controlled by the British rule within 1 year which started in Meerut on 10 May 1857 and ended in Gwalior on 20 June 1858.

Indian Freedom Struggle During 1857-1947

The British rule gradually began to falter due to the revolution of 1857. One after the other, many movements were started against the British.

During that time, there were many such movements that played an important role in securing independence for India.

The Civil Disobedience Movement was also one of these major movements that were started against the British monopoly on salt.

It was started in 1930 under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi , which started with Gandhiji’s famous Dandi March.

Meanwhile, Bhagat Singh is hanged for his country at the age of just 23.

The death of Lala Lajpat Rai encouraged him to fight against the British.

Bhagat Singh avenged this by killing Officer John Sanders and he was also prosecuted for the Lahore Conspiracy.

And on the night of 23 March 1931, Bhagat Singh was hanged along with Sukhdev and Rajguru . After this, the Quit India Movement started in 1942.

This movement showed a ray of hope to the people of India, but despite difficult struggles, this movement was not so successful. But it shook the roots of British rule.

Similarly, many freedom fighters like Subhash Chandra Bose, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Chandrashekhar Azad, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, etc . struggled a lot to make the country independent.

Soon the British rulers signed an agreement and decided to leave India and India got independence on 15 August 1947 .

In this way, the country got independence after a stiff struggle of Indian soldiers as well as freedom fighters . And with this, many freedom fighters had sacrificed their lives.

Conclusion (Essay On Freedom Struggle Of India)

The history of the Indian freedom struggle is very vast.

Many such incidents like the Rowlatt Act, Simon Commission, Jallianwala Bagh massacre , etc  which played an important role in the independence of India.

All of us should also take inspiration from the struggle for independence and the spirit of dedication towards the country should always be kept in mind.

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Essay on Freedom Fighters

Freedom fighters in India are heroes who dedicated their lives to liberating our country from colonial rule. In this essay, we will delve into their inspiring stories and the significant impact they had on shaping India’s history.

Defining Freedom Fighters

Freedom fighters were individuals who valiantly opposed British colonial rule in India. They used various methods, from nonviolent resistance to armed struggle, to fight for the nation’s independence. Their unwavering commitment and bravery set the stage for a free India.

The Importance of India’s Independence

India’s struggle for independence was one of the most significant movements in world history. Statistics show that it played a pivotal role in ending colonialism and inspiring other nations to seek freedom. India’s independence served as a beacon of hope for oppressed people worldwide.

Mahatma Gandhi :The Father of the Nation

Mahatma Gandhi, often referred to as the “Father of the Nation,” was a prominent freedom fighter known for his philosophy of nonviolent resistance. Experts agree that his leadership and principles played a crucial role in India’s independence.

Subhas Chandra Bose: The Spirited Leader

Subhas Chandra Bose, a charismatic and determined leader, believed in a more direct approach to freedom. His efforts to mobilize the Indian National Army (INA) inspired many. Experts recognize his role in strengthening the fight against British rule.

Jawaharlal Nehru – The Visionary Statesman

Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, was not only a freedom fighter but also a visionary leader. He played a significant role in shaping India’s future as a democratic nation. Experts credit his leadership in steering India towards progress.

Sardar Patel :The Unifier

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, known as the “Iron Man of India,” played a crucial role in uniting the princely states to form a unified India after independence. Experts acknowledge his contributions to national integration.

Role of Women Freedom Fighters

Women freedom fighters, such as Sarojini Naidu and Rani Lakshmibai, played essential roles in the struggle for independence. Their dedication and courage inspired countless others to join the fight.

Legacy of India’s Freedom Fighters

The legacy of India’s freedom fighters lives on in the hearts of its citizens. They serve as a source of inspiration, reminding us of the importance of freedom, unity, and perseverance.

Conclusion of Essay on Freedom Fighters

In conclusion, India’s freedom fighters were true champions of independence. Their dedication, courage, and leadership paved the way for a free and democratic India. Their legacy continues to inspire us to value and protect the hard-earned freedom we enjoy today. India’s history is a testament to the power of determination and unity, as demonstrated by these remarkable individuals. As we remember their sacrifices, let us carry forward their spirit of patriotism and work towards building a better, inclusive, and progressive India.

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Key events in the Freedom Struggle leading to India's independence

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India has had a rich and varied history, one that isn't devoid of any struggles. For 200 years, India struggled to free itself from the shackles of the British Raj, making the fight to freedom a long-drawn one.

While every day was a struggle for the Indians fighting for their freedom, some key events rattled the British monarchy, enough for India to awaken to its freedom on August 15, 1947.

On India's 75th Independence Day, let us take a look at the key events from Freedom Struggle:

Revolt of 1857

India's First War of Independence, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny, was the first time Indians united against the British Raj. This rebellion led to the dissolution of the East India Company's rule in India and shifted the powers of the Company to the British Crown, in 1858.

India's lesser-known freedom fighters who vanished from the pages of history - In Pics

Establishing the Indian National Congress in 1885

In 1885, the Indian National Congress was established. It became the leading party alongside the Muslim League and led the nation in the Freedom Struggle.

1915: Return of Mahatma Gandhi to India

In 1915, the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa.

Lucknow Pact of 1916

The Lucknow pact was an agreement between Congress and the Muslim League. Muhammed Ali Jinnah had a strong role to play. As a member of both, the League and the Congress, he made both the parties agree that they would put more pressure on the British so that they adopt a more liberal approach to letting Indians run their country.

1917: The Champaran Satyagraha

In 1917, Gandhi led an uprising of the farmers of Champaran, who were being forced to grow Indigo and were not even being compensated enough for it.

Jallianwala Bagh Massacre

In 1919, the British government had released an order banning public gatherings to punish civilians for their 'disobedience'. However, unaware of this order, thousands of Indians gathered at the Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar, on April 13, to celebrate the festival of Baisakhi. Brigadier-General Dyer called in troops and ordered them to open fire for 10 mins at the mass gathering. The troops had also blocked the main entrance so no one could flee. Many jumped in wells to save themselves. As per the official records of the British, 350 people died in the massacre, but Congress claims the number was as high as 1,000 people.

It was this event that prompted the start of the Non-Cooperation Movement.

Also Read — Independence Day: Facts, controversies around the National Anthem

Non-Cooperation Movement

In 1920, Mahatma Gandhi took charge of Congress and started the Non-Cooperation Movement. The movement was non-violent and saw people not buying British goods, supporting local artisans and handicrafts, and picketing alcohol shops. He went around the countr explaing the tenets of the movement to the masses. The movement came to an end in 1922, when a protest at Chauri Chaura police station turned violent.

Return of Subhash Chandra Bose to India

In 1921, Subhash Chandra Bose quit his high-paying ICS job in England to join India's struggle for Independence. Shortly after his return, he joined the Congress. He started a newspaper titled 'Swaraj'. He was sent to prison in 1925 and was released in 1927. Upon his release, he was made the President of the All India Youth Congress and the Secretary of the Bengal State Congress. In 1930, he became the Mayor of Calcutta.

Purna Swaraj on January 26, 1930

On January 26, 1930, the Indian National Congress declared the independence of India which the British did not recognise.

The Dandi March of 1930

In an act of civil disobedience, Gandhiji took a crowd from the Sabarmati Asharam to Dandi beach, in a non-violent manner, to protest against the repressive salt tax imposed by the British government.

Government of India Act of 1935

The Government of India Act and the creation of a new constitution laid the foundations for the events that would follow in the next decade and thereafter.

Creation of the Indian National Army

An important development in the struggle for freedom during the Second World War was the formation and activities of the Azad Hind Fauj, also known as the Indian National Army, or INA.

The Indian National Army was formed from among the Indian prisoners of war with the aim of liberating India from British rule. In 1943, Subhash Chandra Bose visited Japan, where he rebuilt the INA. He shaped it to be an effective instrument for the freedom of India. The INA had close to 45,000 soldiers. In October 1943, Bose formed a provisional government that had been recognised by the Axis Powers during the Second World War

Quit India Movement of 1942

The All-India Congress Committee started this movement in their Bombay session on August 8, 1942. There was only one mission - to end British Rule in India. In addition, Gandhiji made a call to Do or Die in his Quit India speech that he delivered in Bombay.

Royal Navy Strike of 1946

On February 18, 1946, 1,100 Indian sailors of the HMIS Talwar, and the Royal Indian Navy (RIN) Signal School in Bombay declared a hunger strike against the conditions of Indians in the Navy. The next day, somewhere between 10,000-20,000 soldiers joined the strike.

While the initial demands were for better food and working conditions, the strike soon turned into a wider demand for independence from the British.

The protesting sailors also demanded the release of all political prisoners including those from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s Indian National Army.

Partition of India and the Independence of the country in 1947

The Parliament of the UK passed the Indian Independence Act. As per the Act, British India would be divided into India and Pakistan. The Monarch gave its assent on July 18, 1947, and it came into effect on August 14-15 in Pakistan and India respectively.

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10 most important movements that made India independent

Let us take a look at 15 brave movements that contributed to the independence of india..

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It's been 87 years since two young Indian revolutionaries turned the deaf, aristocrat British ears towards a youth upheaval that changed the course of India's freedom movement. In 1929, in order to court arrest, Shaheed Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt threw political handouts and smoke bombs at the Delhi Central Legislative Assembly.

Let us take a look at 15 such brave movements that made India independent:

200 Words, 150 Words, 100 Words Essay on Freedom Fighters

Freedom Fighters fought for the freedom of the country. Because of them, we are celebrating Independence Day. They are revolutionary and some of them use non-violence as a weapon against the Britishers. India got independence on 15th August 1947 due to the struggle of our freedom fighters to make it independent. They devoted everything to the progress of their nation.

They brought freedom to India after a century of revolution, blood-shedding, and battles. Due to these great leaders only we are living in a democratic and independent country. Many freedom fighters fought for the protection of people from the injustice, exploitation, and cruelty of Britishers. Even though they had no training, they still did it for the freedom of their country.

Many of them lost their lives during the battle. So, we can realize their sacrifice and courage in every situation to make us free citizens. However, they motivated other people to fight for acquiring their freedom. They made awareness among people of their basic rights and power through many freedom movements. It is all because of them we are free from any kind of colonizers. So, they are the cause of our supremacy and freedom. We will update soonly essay on freedom fighters in Hindi, Urdu, Telugu, and English.

Introduction of Famous Freedom Fighters

There are many famous freedom fighters who fought for their motherland. But, let’s know about some of the famous freedom fighters who inspired and encouraged people to work for their country due to their patriotism.

Mahatma Gandhi: The Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi was the great leader of the freedom movement. He was saying ‘work is worship’. Truth and non-violence were his weapons to fight against the Britishers. He contributed a lot to the Indian freedom movement. He joined the Non-cooperative Movement to curb the policies implemented by the Britishers. He made unity among Indians and generated the spirit of patriotism. He joined the Civil Disobedience movement to curb the tax on salt brutal rules of Britishers. He joined actively in the Quit India movement against the Britishers. He utilized his time, efforts, energy, and spirit to achieve freedom in India instead of expecting anything for his contribution.

Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru: Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru was one of the great leaders who gave up everything and fought for the freedom of India. He was the first Prime Minister of India after India got Independence. He joined Mahatma Gandhi against discarding the legislations produced by the Britishers. He was imprisoned with Gandhiji for standing against the salt act. When released from prison both of them reunited their congress party and fought together against Britishers. He was imprisoned a number of times in spite of stopping himself to fight against the injustice of Britishers.

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose was a great and courageous leader who fought for India’s freedom. He was not following peace and non-violence to fight against the Britishers. His campaign for freedom was ‘Give me your blood and I will give you freedom’. He took Hitler’s help for raising the Indian National Army to show the power of Indians to Britishers.

Lal Bahadur Shastri: Lal Bahadur Shastri was the second Prime Minister of India after India got Independence. He was living a simple life and contributed a lot to the freedom movement. He actively joined the Non-cooperative Movement with Gandhiji for abolishing salt rules. He also participated in the Satyagraha Movement and was imprisoned for six years. He also joined the Green Revolution Act to promote the nation’s food production.

Rani Laxmi Bai: Rani Laxmi Bai was also a great freedom fighter. She is the epitome of women’s empowerment for the future generation. She fought for the freedom of the nation in spite of many struggles and hardships. She never gave up her nation because of her child. Instead, she took him to fight against injustice in the war. Her story to achieve freedom is more inspiring and vigorous.

Conclusion on Freedom Fighters Essay

Today’s Independent India was the aim of every Freedom Fighter. They will always be memorable for their patriotism and love for the country. Every year people celebrate Republic and Independence Day to give a tribute to their victory. However, communal hatred rises day by day among people which is the disrespect of making freedom in India. So, we should not stand against each other and try to bring peace in life. Then only we can respect their struggles and sacrifices and make a developed and prosperous country.

FAQ’s on Freedom Fighters Essay

Question 1. What does Freedom Fighters of India mean?

Answer: Freedom Fighters were those great leaders who sacrificed their lives with fearless courage to bring freedom to the Nation.

Question 2. Why are the freedom fighters considered as the epitome of patriotic people?

Answer: The freedom fighters faced pains, exploitation, immense torture, and hardships to bring freedom. So, people considered them the epitome of patriotic people.

Question 3. What is the significance of freedom fighters?

Answer: Freedom Fighters fought for the freedom of the country. Because of them, we are celebrating Independence Day. They brought freedom in India after a century of revolution, blood-shedding, and battles. Due to these great leaders only we are living in a democratic and independent country. Many of them lost their lives during the battle. So, we can realize their sacrifice and courage in every situation to make us a free citizen. They are the cause of our supremacy and freedom.

Question 4. What are the names of famous freedom fighters of India?

Answer: There are many famous freedom fighters who fought for their motherland. Some of the famous freedom fighters are Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, Mangal Pandey, Rani Laxmi Bai, Subash Chandra Bose, Jawaharlal Nehru, Lokamanya Tilak, and Lal Bahadur Shastri.

Question 5. What was the weapon of Mahatma Gandhi to fight against Britishers?

Answer: Non-violence was the weapon of Mahatma Gandhi to fight against the Britishers.

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• Freedom Fighters Essay

Introduction

The freedom of a country depends on its citizens. Individuals who selflessly sacrifice their lives so that their country and countrymen can be free are identified as freedom fighters. Every country has a few brave hearts who willingly give up their lives for their countrymen. Freedom fighters did not only fight for their country but for everyone who suffered in silence, lost their family and freedom, and even their rights to live for themselves. People of the country look up to the freedom fighters with respect for their patriotism and the love they had for their motherland. These people provide examples by which other citizens aim to live by.

For ordinary people, sacrificing their lives is a big deal but freedom fighters selflessly make this unimaginable sacrifice for their country without thinking of any repercussion. The amount of pain and hardships that they have to endure to achieve their goal cannot be described in mere words. The entire country remains forever indebted to them for their struggles.

The Influence Left by the Freedom Fighters

One can't stress enough the importance of the deeds of the freedom fighters. On every Independence Day, the country remembers the thousands who once struggled so that their countrymen could be free. Their sacrifices are never forgotten by their countrymen. 

If we delve into history, we see most freedom fighters joined the freedom struggle without prior formal training in war or related fields. They went to wars and protests knowing very well that they may get killed by the opposite power. The freedom fighters were not just people who fought with arms against the tyrants but they were people who joined protests through literature, legal advocates, people who contributed money to the freedom struggle, and so on. Most of the brave hearts led the fight against foreign powers. They made their fellow people realize their rights and pointed out all the existing social injustice and crimes committed by the ones in power. 

The most important effect that the freedom fighters left on the people of the society are that they inspired others to understand their rights and stand up against the people in power. They inspired others to join their struggle. It was because of the freedom fighters that the countrymen united with a bond of Nationalism and patriotic feelings. 

Freedom fighters are considered to be the propelling force behind the success of the freedom struggle. They are the reason why we can now prosper in a free country.

Some Noteworthy Indian Freedom Fighters

India had been under British rule for 200 years approximately. There were a lot of brave hearts who laid down their lives for the freedom of India. Within the limited scope of this essay, we will discuss the contributions made by only a few freedom fighters.

Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi is known as the father of the nation. Mahatma Gandhi, the reason behind the Dandi march, led the path to freedom following the principles of ahimsa or non-violence. He prioritised ‘ swadeshi ’ and ‘non-cooperation’ to expedite the freedom movement. 

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose was an excellent leader. He travelled to other countries to form alliances and formed Indian National Army (INA) or Azad Hind Fauj which eventually helped our nation prosper. He was successful in freeing a portion of the Indian Territory from British rule.

Bhagat Singh

The fearless patriot was hanged to death at a very young age after being convicted in several cases of dissent against the then British empire. He was indeed a true patriot and we still remember him as Shaheed Bhagat Sing. 

Conclusion  

Freedom fighters are the reason we live in a free country. We must honour their sacrifices and aim to live together in harmony and peace ensuring social justice. 

The motivation for today’s youth is alive in the stories of freedom fighters. The struggles of their lives show the difference in life and the dept of the value they believe in and fought for. We as a citizen of India should respect and honor the sacrifice by creating a peaceful environment in the country.

FAQs on Freedom Fighters Essay

1. What is freedom means to the people living in a country?

Freedom means to live freely without any restrictions to their values. Freedom means people can live according to their opinions, people can work according to their capabilities, there won’t be any discrimination against them by any third party. Freedom means that no one is heading any individual, or controlling them according to their needs. It also means that people can freely live their lives in their own country without any disturbance from any third party.

2. How do freedom fighters affect the independence of our country?

Our country had a huge population at the time of British rule. But then also our country was under British rule for many years. The people of our country are huge in numbers so they need leaders who lead them. These leaders of that time are the freedom fighters, who lead people to come in the majority and revolt against the British empire. Freedom fighters played the most important role to give our people the causes for the revolt.

3. How freedom fighters were brought up to become leaders at that time?

Freedom fighters had their will and the passion to fight for the country. Looking back to the days when our country was under British rule, everybody who fought for the country was not trained professionally to be a freedom fighter. They fought and made us and our country the proudest country of all. Only freedom fighters are the reason behind the freedom struggle that our ancestors faced.

4. Describe the role of Mahatma Gandhi as a freedom fighter.

Mahatma Gandhi was the backbone of the freedom fighters. He was the leader who fought on his will without any hand war. His principle of non-violence helped this country from scratch.

He believed in himself and fought against the British empire. He also owned the honor of The Father of the Nation. The father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, was the reason behind the Dandi march and other struggles.

5. What was the agenda of being independent at the time of British rule?

The agenda of becoming independent at the time of British rule was to live freely in our country without any discrimination. Our people were tortured by the British empire to the max. Our children were not allowed to attain an education. Even we in our own country were not able to live the way we want.

Essay on Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle

Students are often asked to write an essay on Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle

The birth of a leader.

Mahatma Gandhi was born in India in 1869. He studied law in England before returning to India. He later moved to South Africa, where he first used nonviolent resistance.

Gandhi’s Philosophy

Gandhi believed in ‘Satyagraha’, or truth-force. He thought peaceful protests were the best way to resist unfair laws. This was a new idea in the fight for freedom.

Gandhi and India’s Freedom Struggle

Gandhi returned to India in 1915. He led the Indian National Congress, guiding India towards independence. He organized nonviolent protests against British rule.

Legacy of Mahatma Gandhi

Gandhi’s nonviolent methods inspired many, and India gained independence in 1947. His ideas continue to influence people worldwide.

250 Words Essay on Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle

Introduction, non-violent approach.

Gandhi’s primary weapon in the struggle was non-violence or ‘Ahimsa.’ His philosophy was grounded in the belief that moral superiority could not be achieved through violent means. This approach resonated with the masses and enabled widespread participation, thereby intensifying the struggle against the British Raj.

Mass Mobilization

Gandhi’s leadership was marked by his ability to mobilize the masses. His simple lifestyle and empathetic nature helped him connect with the common people. He initiated campaigns like the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement, which saw mass participation unprecedented in the history of the Indian freedom struggle.

Championing Swaraj

Gandhi’s concept of ‘Swaraj’ or self-rule was not just political independence but also economic and social self-reliance. He advocated for the boycott of British goods and promoted indigenous industries, enhancing India’s economic independence and providing a blueprint for post-colonial economic development.

Mahatma Gandhi’s role in India’s freedom struggle was transformative. His non-violent approach, ability to mobilize the masses, and vision for Swaraj were instrumental in shaping the course of India’s freedom struggle. His philosophies have left an indelible mark on India’s ethos and continue to inspire movements for civil rights and freedom across the globe.

500 Words Essay on Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, famously known as Mahatma Gandhi, played a pivotal role in the Indian freedom struggle against British rule. His unique approach of ‘Satyagraha’ (insistence on truth) and ‘Ahimsa’ (non-violence) left an indelible mark on the world and significantly contributed to India’s independence.

Advent of Satyagraha

Non-cooperation movement.

Returning to India in 1915, Gandhi transformed the Indian National Congress from an elitist party into a mass movement. The Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922) was the first large-scale initiative against British rule under his leadership. Gandhi called for a complete boycott of British goods and services, which included schools, courts, and government services. The movement stirred the nation, uniting Indians across regions, religions, and classes. Despite its abrupt end due to the Chauri Chaura incident, the movement marked the beginning of a nationwide struggle for freedom.

Civil Disobedience Movement

The Civil Disobedience Movement, initiated with the Dandi March in 1930, was another milestone in India’s struggle for freedom. Gandhi and his followers marched about 240 miles from Sabarmati Ashram to the coastal village of Dandi, where they made salt, defying the British salt laws. This act was a symbolic defiance of the British monopoly and a peaceful protest against their oppressive regime.

Quit India Movement

Gandhi’s philosophy and its impact.

Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence and truth was not merely a strategy for the freedom struggle, but a way of life. His principles of simplicity, self-reliance, and communal harmony continue to inspire millions around the world. His innovative methods of civil resistance have influenced numerous freedom struggles globally, including the civil rights movement in the U.S. led by Martin Luther King Jr.

Mahatma Gandhi’s role in the Indian freedom struggle was monumental. His non-violent resistance against British rule united the diverse Indian population and instilled in them a sense of national pride. His principles and methods, though criticized by some, proved to be effective in achieving India’s independence. Gandhi’s legacy continues to influence and inspire movements for civil rights and social change worldwide, making him a global icon for peace and justice.

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India Independence Day Essay in English (15 August 2024)

Every year India celebrates Independence Day on 15th August. This is the day when India got freedom from almost 200 years of British rule. This year marks the 78th Independence Day of India.

Table of Contents

Every year on 15th August, India celebrates its Independence Day. It is the golden day that was engraved in the History of India when the Nation became Independent. India got its Independence from 200 years of British rule on 15th August 1947. On this day, India achieved the status of the world’s largest democracy, breaking free from British colonial rule.

Independence Day is a significant milestone in Indian history, marked as a national holiday observed across the nation. The 78th anniversary of the Independence Day of India is going to be celebrated on 15th August 2024 as Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav 2024. In this Essay on Independence Day in English, we have provided insights into Indian independence, the freedom fighters of India , activities on Independence Day, and the significance of Independence Day.

Essay on Independence Day in English

Independence Day for India is celebrated on the 15th of August every year and is declared a public holiday. This year India celebrates its 78 years of freedom from British rule. People of India celebrate this day with utmost patriotism by hoisting the Tri-color National flag, doing March-past, and performing social work. Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag at Red Fort and delivers a nationalistic Speech on Independence Day every year. Many TV channels share and show the whole celebration as it happens. Schools, colleges, universities, offices, and other places celebrate by planning activities and fun events.

Independence Day Theme

This year, 78th Independence Day Theme is “ Vikshit Bharat or Developed India’. The Independence Day Essay in English should also revolve on this theme. This is an vision of the Indian government to be a developed nation by 2047 (100th years of Indian’s Freedom from British Rule). Some campaigns are also launched by the central government as a mark of celebrating this special occasion. The third edition of ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign motivates people to fly tricolour at their homes, offices and workplaces. The ‘Meri Mati Mera Desh’  campaign is embarked as an initiative to honour martyrs across the country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has put forth a ‘ Panch Pran ’ theme for India 2.0, which comprises Women and Children, Tribal Empowerment, Water, Cultural Pride, Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE), Health and Wellness, Inclusive Development, Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Unity.

Independence Day 2024 Essay in 10 Lines

Students can check 10 lines on Indian Independence Day 2024 below:

• Independence Day in India is celebrated every year on August 15
• Independence Day is celebrated as a national festival
• Independence Day is a symbol of victory over colonial rule
• This year we are celebrating the 78th Independence Day of India
• The Prime Minister will be hosting the flag at Red Fort
• The day is remembered as a day to show respect and love toward the sacrifice made by our beloved freedom fighters
• The Independence Day celebration consists of the national flag-hosting ceremony, parades, and multiple cultural activities
• All the institutions including schools, offices celebrate Independence Day with full pride
• Independence Day brings a spirit of nationality to every Indian
• Independence Day resonates with the victory of peace over violence.

Short Essay on Independence Day For Class 6th Students

Indian Independence Day is celebrated every year on August 15th. On this day in 1947, India became free from British rule. People all over India celebrate this day with great joy and pride.

In schools, students gather for special programs. They sing patriotic songs and perform dances. The national flag is hoisted, and everyone sings the national anthem.

In many places, people fly kites of different colors. There are also parades and speeches.

This day reminds us of the brave freedom fighters who worked hard and sacrificed their lives for our country’s freedom. We remember their bravery and feel proud to be Indians.

Independence Day teaches us to love our country and to work hard to make it a better place.

Essay on Independence Day (100 Words)

On August 15, 1947, India gained freedom from British rule, and every year this day is celebrated with pride and joy. Independence Day symbolizes the strength and diversity of Indian democracy. It reminds us of the sacrifices made by freedom fighters who struggled for the nation’s independence. On this day, we salute the Indian flag and renew our commitment to national unity, integrity, and prosperity. It serves as a reminder to unite and continue working towards nation-building. Independence Day is a celebration of our shared history and a call to advance together as one nation. Jai Hind!

Independence Day Essay for Students 150 Words

15 August, a day that every India celebrates with utmost joy and happiness is a national festival that fills our hearts with pride and integrity towards the national flag. This day brings back the memories of all those brave hearts who fought and lost their lives for the integrity of the nation who with their sacrifice gave us freedom. This day tells us that as nothing is free in this world so is freedom.

Under British rule, countless freedom fighters gave their lives for the sake of freedom, the freedom of their nation, and freedom of their loved ones. It was 15 August 1947, when the sacrifices of all those results and we got freedom from colonial rule. On this Independence day, every individual pays tribute to the freedom fighters and the soldiers who are still fighting with their enemies to save the integrity of this nation.

Essay on Independence Day in 200 Words

Independence Day is a special day celebrated every year on August 15th in India. It marks the day when India became free from British rule in 1947. This day is very important for all Indians because it reminds us of the bravery and sacrifices of our freedom fighters.

On Independence Day, people across the country celebrate with joy and pride. In the morning, the Prime Minister hoists the national flag at the Red Fort in Delhi. Many schools, offices, and communities also hold flag-hoisting ceremonies. Children sing patriotic songs, perform dances, and participate in parades.

The streets and buildings are decorated with the tricolor flag of India. People watch special programs on television that show the history of India’s struggle for freedom. Everyone feels a sense of pride and unity.

Independence Day teaches us the value of freedom and the importance of working together to build a better nation. It is a day to remember our past, honor our heroes, and pledge to make our country strong and prosperous.

Essay on Independence Day in 500 Words

Indian Independence Day is a very special and important day for all Indians. It is celebrated every year on the 15th of August. This day marks the end of British rule in India and the birth of a free and independent India in 1947. On this day, we remember the brave freedom fighters who fought for our country’s freedom.

Before India became independent, it was ruled by the British for almost 200 years. The British came to India for trade, but they soon took control over our land. Many Indians were unhappy with the British rule because they were not treated fairly. The British imposed many strict laws and took away India’s resources.

Many great leaders and freedom fighters like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel, Subhas Chandra Bose, and many others fought for our independence. They organized protests, marches, and campaigns to unite the people of India against British rule. Mahatma Gandhi’s non-violent movement was very powerful and gained a lot of support from people all over the country. After years of struggle and sacrifice, India finally gained independence on August 15, 1947.

On Independence Day, we celebrate our freedom with joy and pride. The main event takes place in the capital city, New Delhi, where the Prime Minister hoists the national flag at the Red Fort. This is followed by a grand parade, cultural programs, and speeches. The Prime Minister addresses the nation and talks about the importance of this day and our achievements as a country.

In schools, colleges, and communities across the country, people celebrate by hoisting the national flag, singing the national anthem, and organizing various cultural events. Children participate in patriotic songs, dances, and skits to honor the freedom fighters and show their love for the country. People decorate their homes and streets with the tricolor flag and lights.

Independence Day is a day to remember the sacrifices of our freedom fighters and to feel proud of our country’s rich history and culture. It reminds us of the importance of unity, freedom, and the responsibility to build a better future for our nation. It is a day of joy, pride, and celebration for every Indian.

Independence Day and Its History

Independence Day is a day to exhibit pride, unity, and integrity among all Indians. The current year 2024 marks the 77th anniversary of the country’s independence from the Britishers’ rule. For almost 200 years, India was reigned by Britishers miserably. Britishers established colonial rule on Indians and treated them as slaves. At midnight on 15th August 1947, a light at the end of the tunnel struck when Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru unfurled our National Flag at Red Fort and hoisted the tricolor flag as a mark of independent India.

Under British rule, the lives of Indians were pitiful as they were treated in an inhumane manner. The Indian rulers were given no powers to take action and some rulers were also banished. Indian soldiers’ army was devastated and Indian farmers were charged heavy taxes on lands. Several farmers died out of hunger and poverty which was very pathetic. To put an end to all such cruelties, several freedom fighters namely Mahatma Gandhi , Subhash Chandra Bose, Bhagat Singh, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Jawaharlal Nehru, Rani Lakshmi Bai, Mangal Pandey, Dada Bhai Naoroji have sacrificed their lives to get freedom for India. A sincere tribute is given to all such leaders on every independence day on remembering their sacrifices and efforts.

To pay Homage to our Indian Freedom Fighters

Many freedom fighters have struggled so much and sacrificed themselves for the sake of the common people and the nation to gain independence from colonialism. Lakhs of people were shredded and shed their blood to attain freedom from the reign of the British people. As a mark of remembering their efforts and to pay tribute to them, the tricolor national flag is hoisted in various institutions such as schools, colleges, society buildings, etc.,

Students deliver interesting speeches on Independence Day on topics related to freedom fighters, freedom struggles, patriotism, unity in diversity, etc. Some people in offices or government or private organizations wear tricolor dresses to exhibit their patriotism and to be grateful to the leaders who sacrificed their lives. Interesting cultural events are also organized in schools, universities, colleges, offices, and social organizations to instigate patriotic feelings among people and to pay tribute to several leaders and freedom fighters of India who have sacrificed themselves for the Nation. A good Independence Day Essay writing in English should focus on covering the main point of paying tribute to our freedom fighters.

Great Indian Freedom Fighters

Every beautiful thing has its price and so does Independence. Our brave Freedom Fighters gave their blood and lives for the sake of our freedom. Therefore, Independence Day is a day to salute and remember the sacrifice of some of the most pure and brave hearts of the country. This day takes us back to learning from Bhagat Singh, Rani of Jhansi, Chandra Shekhar Azad, Subhas Chandra Bose, and many more. These are just a few of the many brave individuals who contributed to India’s fight for independence. Below we have discussed a few more Indian freedom fighters:

• Mahatma Gandhi – Leader of the Indian independence movement, known for his philosophy of non-violence (Ahimsa) and civil disobedience.
• Subhas Chandra Bose – A prominent leader who advocated for armed struggle against British rule and led the Indian National Army (INA).
• Bhagat Singh – A revolutionary socialist who became a folk hero for his bravery and sacrifice in the struggle for independence.
• Rani Lakshmibai – The Queen of Jhansi, who played a key role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel – A senior leader of the Indian National Congress and a key figure in the integration of princely states into India.
• Jawaharlal Nehru – The first Prime Minister of India and a central figure in Indian politics before and after independence.
• Bal Gangadhar Tilak – Known as “The Father of Indian Unrest,” he was one of the first leaders of the Indian independence movement.
• Sarojini Naidu – A poet and activist, she was a prominent figure in the Indian National Congress and played a significant role in the freedom struggle.
• Chandrasekhar Azad – A revolutionary leader who was involved in several acts of rebellion against the British.
• Mangal Pandey – A soldier who played a key role in the events leading up to the Indian Rebellion of 1857.

How is Independence Day celebrated in India?

To rejoice in the spirit of our freedom and independence and to commemorate the service rendered by honorable freedom fighters we celebrate Independence Day every year. Celebration is done on this day mainly to invoke patriotic feelings among Indians and to eradicate terrorism or any evil thoughts so that they stay united and promote the growth of the nation. The Essay on Independence Day Writing in English also focuses on the celebrations which are done in the following ways:

Celebrations in Delhi: In Delhi, our honorable prime minister hoists the Tricolour(Thiranga) flag in Red Fort, followed by singing our National Anthem. To honor our prime minister, a 21-gunshot salute is performed, which is then followed by the inspiring speech of our prime minister highlighting the importance of freedom and the struggles of freedom fighters. Our Indian army does parades and March past followed by other armed forces. A procession is held and tableaus depict the Indian religious and cultural heritage of various states.

Celebrations in Schools and Colleges: Several schools, colleges, and offices also celebrate this glory of independence with utmost zeal and enthusiasm. They hoist national flags and sing our National Anthem, followed by singing various patriotic songs such as ‘Vande Mataram’, ‘Sandese Aate Hain’, ‘I Love My India’, and much more. Children get dressed up as freedom fighters or leaders who saved our Nation, students participate in various competitions like debate, speech, drawing, or painting competitions.

Celebrations in Offices:  In all the government and private institutions the celebrations of Independence Day are conducted on large scales. From organizing the flag-hosting ceremony to participating in the cultural programs, and wearing ethnic dresses representing the cultural heritage of India. Speeches are delivered marking the importance of Independence Day in terms of the organizations.

Significance of Independence Day

India is proud to be the largest democratic country in the world, where the power lies in the hands of the common man. Thanks to the enormous efforts and struggles of several freedom fighters, the democratic power and freedom that we enjoy today. All Indians should abide by the principle of Unity in Diversity which is the key strength and morale of the Nation. Though Indians differ in their languages, religion, and cultural values, the word ‘Indians’ unites them and makes them feel like one nation. By celebrating Independence Day, a feeling of patriotism, unity, and brotherhood develops among the people of the country. On the whole, Independence Day in India is celebrated beautifully every year, and every Indian is reminded of the freedom struggle and lives of many soldiers, leaders, and freedom fighters who were slaughtered to death on this day.

Cultural Impact

India as a country is home to multiple cultures and traditions and that is reflected in our celebrations. Similarly, on the day of the Independence Day celebration, every state, every culture, and every individual tries to represent their culture and tradition on the global stage. Therefore, various parades are conducted at the India Gate after the flag-hosting ceremony representing various cultures and traditions with the utmost precision and beauty

How to Write a Good Independence Day Essay in English

When you are all set to pen down Independence Day Essay Writing in English, follow these important tips which are listed below.

• You should deeply understand the topic, the main theme of the essay and the question to be addressed. Brainstorming different ideas helps you to frame your essay in a better way.
• Try to use clear, concise, and catchy statements to outline the main purpose of the essay.
• You should write an engaging introduction that attracts the readers to look more into the topic.
• Each paragraph of your Essay on Independence Day in English should revolve around the single main theme or main ideas to support the whole essay.
• You can avoid complex language and Jagrans, instead focus on simple and crisp language.
• The flow of points in your Independence Day Essay Writing in English should be coherent and logical.
• Quote some examples, facts, and scenarios to make your essay interesting to read.
• Conclude the essay by covering all important points logically and frame it in a different way without repetitions.
• Try to highlight thought-provoking statements and call-to-action sentences.
• Review your essay thoroughly to check grammar, spelling errors, tone, flow of points, and writing style.

Independence Day Speech in English- Click to Read

Mahatma Gandhi Essay in English – Click to Read

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Essay on Independence Day in English-FAQs

Q1. when is independence day celebrated in india.

Ans. Every year 15th of August is celebrated as Independence Day in India.

Q2. How is Independence Day celebrated in India?

Ans. The Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag at Red Fort and delivers a nationalistic Speech on Independence Day every year. Interesting cultural events are also organized in schools, universities, colleges, offices and social organizations to instigate the patriotic feeling among people and to pay tribute to several leaders and freedom fighters of India. Students deliver interesting speech on Independence Day on topics related to freedom fighters, Freedom struggle, Patriotism, Unity in Diversity, etc,.

Q3. How many years of Independence do we all enjoy?

Ans. It is been 78 years since India became an Independant Nation and this year marks the 78th anniversary.

Q4. What is the theme that Independence Day Essay in English has to focus on?

Ans. The theme that Independence Day Essay in English should focus is Nation First, Always First, which coincides with 'Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav'.

Q5. What is the importance of Independence?

Ans. Being independent gives a sense of belief, helps in personal as well as societal growth, develops the self sufficiency, efficiency and creativity in individuals. Most importantly, independence gives individuals the control over their lives to pursue their dream their way and explore new opportunities without being controlled by anyone else.

As Team Lead- Content Writer, I take on leadership within our content creation team, overseeing the development of error-free educational content. My primary responsibility is to produce and analyse high-quality content educating and informing the aspirants about upcoming government exams published on our website. I have more than 6 years experience in content writing wherein 3.5 years of experience in ed-tech content writing.

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• The Indian Freedom Movement

India’s independence from the British Raj can be said to be the most significant movement in its modern history. It is very important for us to know about this struggle and learn our lessons to what forms the basis of our country and even our constitution . Let us learn about Indian freedom movement.

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India’s freedom movement.

We all know the father of our nation and the leader of the Indian struggle for independence was Mahatma Gandi . It was his resilience and undeniable support of the masses he enjoyed that really made an impact in this struggle. He had a unique non-violent way to protest the British that was very effective. Let us look at some significant events that he led and which defined our struggle for independence .

Non-Cooperation Movement

It started on 1st August 1920 by Mahatma Gandhi. It was meant to be the largest civil disobedience movements of the time. People were encouraged to give up their titles and boycotting government elections , schools , colleges etc. The public also stayed away from participating in elections.

Civil Disobedience Movement

After the Non-Cooperation movement ended Gandhiji started a bigger movement, the civil disobedience movement. One of the main reasons for this movement was the monopoly the British had on salt in India. Indians were prohibited from collecting and manufacturing salt. Indians had to buy it from the British and also pay heavy tax when buying salt.

Gandhiji hence started his famous Dandi March, a 241-mile journey on foot to the salt mines in Gujarat. His one act of defiance started one of the biggest civil disobedience movements in the world.

Quit India Movement

This was one of the final straws that gave India its independence. During the World War II on the 8th of August 1942, Gandhiji and Indian National Congress launched the Quit India Movement. They had only one demand, that the British rule in India must end completely.

Although the movement itself was unsuccessful, since Winston Churchill refused to withdraw from India, it was effective in its own right. It caused the British to realize that their power in India was waning.

Some Other Significant Movements/Incidents

• Simon Commision: It was a commission to discuss the Indian Constitution. However the entire commission was made my of Englishmen, no Indian members were a part of it. Indian leaders protested with the “Simon Go Back” demonstrations
• Jallianwala Bagh massacre: This occurred on 13 April 1919. General Dyre opened fire on a crowd of unsuspecting villagers, without any notice or warning. 379 people were killed in cold blood.
• Rowlatt Act: The act allowed people to arrested only based on suspicion, without any actual proof.

Solved Examples for You

Q: Which incident caused Mahatma Gandhi to call off the Non-Cooperation movement?

• Rowlatt Act
• Dandi March
• Chauri-Chaura Riots
• None of the above

Ans: The correct answer is C. On 5 February in 1922, a group of people participating in the Non-cooperation movement were shot at by policemen. In retaliation, these protestors set fire to a police station in the area. The people inside the police station were killed as a result. Gandhiji was absolutely against violence and as a result of this incident he called off the Non-cooperation movement.

Q: Which of the following movements has its origins in Turkey?

• Non-cooperation movement
• Civil Disobedience movement
• Khilafat Movement

Ans; The correct option is D. After the world war, a Khilafa movement was started by Islam followers around the world, to encourage European powers not to dismember the Ottoman Empire. Indian Muslims to support this movement. They were upset about Britians policy and attitude towards Turkey.

Indian Muslims also started a Khilafat movement in India against the British. They even joined the Non-cooperation movement. It is the Khilafat movement which caused the Muslim population in India to become active participants in the Indian freedom movement.

Q: In which year was the Indian National Congress formed?

Ans: The correct answer is B. The Indian National Congress was actually formed by a retired British officer, A. O, Hume on the 28th December 1885. It was formed so that educated Indians could have a forum to have political discussions and debates. Then gradually the feeling of nationalism began to rise among Indians and this was reflected in the INC as well.

Then came the era of Gandhiji and his policies. The new leadership of the Congress which included Nehru, Sardar Patel, Rajendra Prasad etc were all followers of his policies.

Q: Which pact was an agreement to reserve electoral seats for depressed classes?

• Lucknow Pact
• Bombay Pact

Ans: The correct answer is A. The pact was an agreement between Dr Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi made on 24th September 1932. It was an agreement that the depressed classes (schedule caste, scheduled tribes) will have a separate and adequate representation in the new Indian government. It gave the depressed classes a quota of 148 electoral seats.

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• School Education /

Essay on Indian Independence Day in English

• Updated on  
• Aug 14, 2024

Essay on Indian Independence Day: Independence Day serves as a solemn reminder of the gallant sacrifices made by countless men and women who dared to dream of a sovereign nation. Celebrated on the 15th of August, this auspicious occasion marks the resounding triumph of India’s struggle for freedom against British colonial rule in 1947. Beyond the festivities and grandeur, Independence Day serves as a solemn reminder of the gallant sacrifices made by countless men and women who dared to dream of a sovereign nation.

Schools prepare students for exciting celebrations and co-curricular activities whenever Independence Day draws near. One of these activities is the Essay Speaking Competition, which aims to improve students’ speaking skills and encourage them to express their thoughts. In this article, we provide a helpful guide to excel in this competition. 

Also Read: English Essay Topics

Also Read: How to Write an Essay in English

Also Read: Speech on Republic Day for Class 12th

Table of Contents

• 1 When is the Indian Independence Day Celebrated?
• 2 Why is the 15th of August Celebrated as Independence Day?
• 3 Sample Essay on Indian Independence day in 150 words
• 4 Sample Essay on Indian Independence Day in 250 words

When is the Indian Independence Day Celebrated?

India eagerly anticipates the celebration of its 77th Independence Day on August 15. This year’s milestone marks 76 years of liberation from British colonial rule, a significant achievement. The day resonates with the struggles endured to break free from the British Raj after almost two centuries. It honours the sacrifices of brave leaders and freedom fighters who laid down their lives for India’s independence. The theme for 2023 is ‘Nation First, Always First’, shaping the essence of the celebrations. The occasion is a testament to unity, patriotism, and the collective duty to propel the nation towards prosperity. Festivities include flag hoisting, parades, cultural events, and a renewed commitment to honour the nation’s history and freedom.

Also Read: How to Prepare for UPSC in 6 Months?

Also Read – Essay on Durga Puja

Why is the 15th of August Celebrated as Independence Day?

15th August holds immense significance as Independence Day in India. It marks the momentous occasion when, after over two centuries of British colonial rule, India triumphantly declared its freedom in 1947. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the relentless struggle and sacrifices of numerous freedom fighters who valiantly fought for liberation. The reins of authority were handed over to India’s leaders, symbolising a new beginning. The journey to independence was a persistent one, etching a tryst with destiny. As we celebrate this historic day, we honour the lives laid down for a free India and embrace the dawn of a new era.

Sample Essay on Indian Independence day in 150 words

Independence Day is a symbol for our Nation that depicts the struggles, resilience, determination and then eventually triumph of our nation over the colonial rule. The Indian Independence day is celebrated on 15th of August in India. It is a reminder of those brave hearts who laid down their lives for the nation, the sacrifices, the struggles they made to free our nation from the oppression of the Britishers. Those freedom fighters had indomitable spirits and hence, this day marks their victory and end of the British rule in India in the year 1947. The very essence of the Independence day is in remembering the values our forefathers fought for- secularism, democracy and unity in diversity.

The Independence day is not just about festivity and flag hoisting, it is a day of pride, aspiration, and reflection, hence binding the past, present and the future of our nation in a bond of patriotism that is shared by every Indian.

Sample Essay on Indian Independence Day in 250 words

Indian Independence Day, observed on August 15, is a solemn tribute to the brave souls who envisioned a sovereign nation and made gallant sacrifices to realise that dream. This significant day marks the triumphant culmination of India’s arduous struggle against British colonial rule in 1947. Amidst the grandeur and celebrations, the core message of Independence Day remains the valour of those who dared to dream and fought relentlessly for freedom.

Approaching its 77th year, Independence Day holds special significance in 2023 as India commemorates 76 years of liberation from British dominion. This milestone is a testament to the enduring spirit that defied two centuries of subjugation. The theme ‘Nation First, Always First’ underscores the essence of this year’s celebrations, emphasising unity, patriotism, and progress.

The historic significance of August 15 is entrenched in the awakening of a nation. Emerging from the shadows of colonialism, India embarked on a new trajectory as its leaders assumed the mantle of governance. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the tenacity displayed by freedom fighters who selflessly embraced sacrifice for a better India.

Independence Day rekindles the flame of patriotism, fostering a collective commitment to propel the nation forward. Celebrations encompass flag hoisting, parades, and cultural events, all symbolising renewed dedication to India’s history and the tireless efforts that secured its freedom. As the tricolour soars high and the echoes of the national anthem resound, each Independence Day reaffirms the spirit of unity and resilience that define the Indian identity.

Related Articles :

To write an Independence Day essay, begin with an engaging introduction, highlighting the historical importance of the day. Discuss the struggles, sacrifices, and leaders who played pivotal roles in gaining freedom. Describe celebrations and their significance, concluding with a message of patriotism and unity, ensuring a well-structured and concise essay.

Independence Day, celebrated on August 15, marks India’s liberation from British rule in 1947. It signifies the triumph of courage, sacrifice, and unity. Festivities include flag hoisting, parades, and cultural events, fostering national pride and remembrance of those who fought for freedom.

Indian Independence Day, on 15th August, commemorates the nation’s freedom from British colonial rule in 1947. It’s a day of immense historical significance, evoking patriotism and unity among citizens. Festivities involve flag-raising ceremonies, parades, and cultural performances, celebrating India’s journey to sovereignty and honouring its brave leaders.

For more information on such interesting topics, visit our essay writing page and follow Leverage Edu . 

Manasvi Kotwal

Manasvi's flair in writing abilities is derived from her past experience of working with bootstrap start-ups, Advertisement and PR agencies as well as freelancing. She's currently working as a Content Marketing Associate at Leverage Edu to be a part of its thriving ecosystem.

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• Government Exam Articles
• List Indian Freedom Movements [1857 -1947] - For General Awareness

List of Important Events During The Indian Freedom Struggle [1857-1947]

When studying for competitive exams, one of the many important subjects to cover is History. Being a lengthy subject, it frequently terrifies many aspirants, but when studied in an engaging way, it may be simple to remember and understand. The topic of the Indian National Movement, which is a significant phase in the freedom struggle of India, is one of the most important topics that cover the broad history of India.

The list of Indian freedom movements should be prepared well by candidates studying for upcoming government exams like SSC, RRB, Bank and more because general awareness is a requirement for many of these exams. Even the candidates who are preparing for the IAS Exam will find the questions related to the Indian Freedom Struggle in both the UPSC Prelims and GS 1 Mains exams.

Indian Freedom Struggle

Indian nationalism began to take shape in the late nineteenth century. The rebellion of 1857 marked the conscious beginning of the fight for independence from the British empire’s colonial oppression. The 1857 uprising went by many names, including the Sepoy Mutiny and India’s First War of Independence. Although the revolt of 1857 started as a mutiny, soon it spread all over the country to overthrow the foreign domination. The revolt of 1857 was not successful but it sparked the fire for independence, which ultimately resulted in a series of Indian national movements with the ultimate goal of bringing an end to the British rule in India.

This article gives a detail of the major Indian Freedom Movements post-1857, that contributed to achieving Independence on 1947. The list of Indian freedom struggles will be available for candidates to download in PDF format for the convenience of use during the preparation.

Candidates willing to check more topics for the general awareness section of various competitive exams can visit the SSC General Awareness page. The topics covered are common for all government examinations.

Overview of the Indian Freedom Movements

• Also called India’s first war of independence, it began at Meerut on May 10, 1857, and slowly spread across Delhi, Agra, Kanpur and Lucknow.
• It was the first significant uprising against the East India Company. Although the Revolt was unsuccessful, it had a significant impact on the masses and inspired India’s entire Independence Movement.
• It was the revolt of 1857 which gave a clear message to the British Crown that the East India Company had failed to exercise control over the country, demonstrating its incapacity.
• The British East India Company’s control came to an end with this fight for independence.
• After the British Crown seized control of India from the East India Company in 1858, it became a British colony in law. Following this, India was directly governed by the British government through governors general.

Read about the Social Causes of Revolt of 1857 , in the linked article.

British India saw the rise of numerous political organisations in the late nineteenth century. The most notable one was the Indian National Congress , popularly known as the Congress Party, which was established in 1885 . Its initial goal was to establish a platform for civil and political discussion between Indians and the British Raj in order to secure a larger political role for educated Indians. Later, under the leadership of individuals like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawarhal Nehru, Subhas Chandra Bose and Sardar Vallabhai Patel, the Congress party was instrumental in organising large-scale movements against the British government.

• The Swadeshi Movement was a consequence of Lord Curzon’s announcement for the partition of Bengal in 1905, on the grounds that the population of Bengal as a whole would be difficult to govern over.
• However, the British declared the division of Bengal into two provinces with the intention of undermining nationalist unity.
• The “Boycott” resolution was adopted at a conference held at the Calcutta Town Hall on August 7, 1905, thus establishing the Swadeshi movement and bringing its previously fragmented leadership under one leadership.
• The goal of the Swadeshi movement was to encourage the usage of local goods and services while denouncing their British counterparts. This raised India’s economic standing and demonstrated to the British that Indians could live independently.
• When British products were openly torched, this movement became violent. The British started detaining the agitators to address this issue, and ultimately Bengal was partitioned.
• The Swadeshi Movement was a turning point in Indian history because it demonstrated the nation’s unity and helped people see that they could defeat the British if they united.

Read more about the Swadeshi Movement , in the linked article.

• The Ghadar Movement was a significant turning point in India’s quest for independence. Early in the 20th century, a number of stringent immigration laws based on racial discrimination were put in place to reduce the number of Indian immigrants coming to Canada in search of employment.
• Komagata Maru Incident: A ship from Canada by the name of Komagatamaru that was carrying immigrants from India was sent back. Several of the ship’s passengers were killed or detained in a clash with the British police as it headed back to India. The Komagata Maru episode attracted worldwide attention and condemnation for the violation of human rights and racism. The episode further inspired the Ghadar party to engage in its struggle against colonial rule, and therefore it indirectly gave a fillip to the Indian struggle for freedom.
• After the brutal British repression, the Ghadar Movement started to wane. 1917 saw the Ghadar Party split into a Communist and a Socialist faction following the end of World War I.
• The Ghadar movement might be characterised as a story of extraordinary bravery, labour and toil that affected every Indian living in foreign countries.
• The powerful speeches by its leaders did shape the expatriate opinion against the misrule of the British in India.
• It truly qualifies as a major struggle which aroused the people to fight for freedom and sowed seeds for any other future course of action.

Learn more about the following:

• Komagata Maru Incident
• Ghadhar Party
• Home Rule Movement served as the country’s response to the First World War and a powerful means to express opposition to British rule.
• Home Rule Movement was started by Bal Gangadhar Tilak at Belgaum in April 1916 and later by Annie Besant in Madras in September 1916.
• This movement was targeted at achieving self-rule, without the interference of the British Government.
• Movement sought to demonstrate the strength of India and its people by raising political awareness and assembling a bigger political representation for the nation in opposition to British Rule.
• This movement resulted in the 1917 Montague Declaration , which said that there would be a greater representation of Indians in the administration, fostering the growth of institutions for self-governance and finally bringing about responsible governments in India.

Read more about the Home Rule Movement in the linked article.

• Champaran Movement was Mahatma Gandhi’s first act of civil disobedience during the struggle for independence, which took place in the Bihar region of Champaran in 1917.
• Gandhi was persuaded by an indigo farmer, Rajkumar Shukla, to visit Champaran to look into the plight of the farmers, who were subjected to oppressive regulations and high taxes. Under the tinkathia system , they were compelled to grow indigo by the British colonists.
• Gandhi gathered support from the local farmers and masses to organise nonviolent protests against planters and landlords, and as a result, the government decided to do away with the oppressive tinkathia system. Additionally, the peasants were compensated with a part of the money taken from them.
• Gandhi organised three protests in Champaran, Ahmedabad and Kheda during the years 1917 and 1918, before beginning the Rowlatt Satyagraha.
• Although the Champaran Satyagraha was the first to be organised, the term ‘Satyagraha’ was first used during the anti-Rowlatt Act protest, which means, a non-violent method of protest.

Read the following articles for more details:

• Gandhi’s Early Movements in India
• Champaran Satyagraha
• The Anarchical and Revolutionary Crimes Act of 1919, passed by the British Indian government, was more often known as the Rowlatt Act.
• The Act granted the government the authority to imprison anyone accused of engaging in terror activities for up to two years without a trial. The freedom of the press was likewise severely restricted by the Rowlatt Act.
• Mahatma Gandhi began a non-violent Satyagraha on April 6, 1919, to protest against the British government’s unfair Rowlatt Act, which was called the Rowlatt Satyagraha.
• A nationwide hartal was declared and people were asked to hold meetings against the repressive act and refrain from going to work.
• While the hartal was successful in Delhi, violence was witnessed in Punjab and a few other places. Therefore, Gandhi suspended the hartal in the wake of the violence.
• The infamous Jallianwala Bagh massacre, which took place in Amritsar on 13th April 1919, was also the result of the protest against the Rowlatt Act. This incident was a great reason for Indians to struggle for India’s independence even harder.

Read more about the Rowlatt Satyagraha and the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre , in the linked article.

• Khilafat Movement : The Indian Muslims were not happy with the way the British dethroned the Caliph in Turkey. So, in 1919, various protests were held against the Britishers. The Muslim League and Congress came together during this time. Both of these parties worked together to organise numerous political protests. The movement was initially introduced on August 31, 1920, when the Khilafat Committee began a campaign of non-cooperation.
• The Indian National Congress (INC), led by Mahatma Gandhi, began the Non-Cooperation Movement on September 5, 1920. The Non-Cooperation Movement is one of the key movements in India’s independence struggle. It was initiated by Gandhi in support of the Khilafat Movement.
• The aim was to boycott major social programmes, events, offices and schools to resonate with India’s struggle for independence. In his declaration Gandhi, wanted people to adopt Swadeshi principles and work for the eradication of untouchability from society.
• The open, non-violent protest against the government by thousands of Indians was a true mass movement.
• The Indian National Congress called for self-government or Swarajya and only non-violent methods were asked to be used while protesting
• However, following the Chauri Chaura incident in February 1922, where during a fight between the police and protesters a violent crowd set fire to a police station, killing 22 policemen, Gandhiji decided to put an end to the movement.

View the linked article to learn more about the Non-Cooperation Movement and its role in India’s independence struggle.

• Mahatma Gandhi led a non-violent Civil Disobedience Movement in colonial India known as the Salt March, also known as the Salt Satyagraha, the Dandi March, and the Dandi Satyagraha.
• By 1930, the Congress Party had announced that the only goal of the liberation movement should be Poorna Swarajya or total independence. The 26 January 1930 was declared Poorna Swarajya Day.
• The movement began in 1930 after Indians became angered when the British imposed a tax on the sale and collection of salt, and Gandhiji chose to break the salt tax in defiance of the government.
• On March 12, 1930, Mahatama Gandhi led a large group of people from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi, a seaside town in Gujarat, where they produced salt from seawater in violation of the law.
• More than 60,000 individuals were detained as the movement swept across the nation, including Mahatma Gandhi.
• When Gandhiji was finally allowed to leave prison in 1931, he met with Lord Irwin, who was keen to put a stop to the civil disobedience movement and the media attention it had garnered.
• The Gandhi-Irwin Pact stipulated that the civil disobedience campaign would be put an end to in exchange for allowing Indians to produce salt for household use. Lord Irwin also consented to the Indians’ detention being lifted. Gandhiji participated in the London Second Round Table Conference as a “equal.”

Read more about the Civil Disobedience Movement in the linked article.

• The leaders of the Indian National Congress (INC) were unhappy with the British government for dragging India into the Second World War in 1939, without the Indian people’s consent.
• Indian backing for the war was highly desired by the British government and as a result, the Viceroy Linlithgow offered a series of recommendations known as the “August offer.”
• After the Indian nationalists demanded an interim government in India in lieu of support in World War II, Indians’ freedom to frame their own constitution was acknowledged for the first time in the August Offer, 1940.
• However, the August Offer said after the war, a representative Indian body would be established to draft India’s Constitution, and it would be given dominion status.
• The INC rejected this offer at its meeting at Wardha in August 1940 and demanded complete freedom from the colonial rule. The Individual Satyagraha was then started by Mahatma Gandhi to uphold the right to free expression.
• Brahma Datt, Vinoba Bhave and Jawaharlal Nehru were the first three satyagrahis. The satyagrahis also started a march towards Delhi, which was called the ‘ Delhi Chalo Movement’ .
• Although the movement failed to pick up steam and was aborted in December 1940, it put the Britishers under immense pressure.

Learn in detail about the August Offer and Individual Satyagraha in the linked article.

• The INC called for a widespread civil disobedience movement when the Cripps Mission , which arrived in India in March 1942, was unable to promise any type of constitutional remedy for India’s issues.
• The idea of an independence movement in India was accepted by the Congress Working Committee at its Wardha meeting on July 14, 1942.
• Gandhi began this movement in August 1942 in an effort to compel the British to leave India. This campaign, known as the “Bharat Chhodo Andolan,” compelled the British colonial authorities to consider leaving India.
• The outcome of the movement was that Congress was declared an unlawful association and its offices all over the country were raided. The leaders were arrested and there rose a chaotic moment with this incident.
• Despite heavy-handed suppression by the government, the people were unfazed and continued their struggle.
• The movement placed the demand for complete independence at the top agenda of the freedom movement.

Read about Quit India Movement in the linked article.

The Indian National Movement is a very relevant topic in Indian History for many government exams, and the significance of this topic can only be appreciated by being aware of the kinds of questions that can be asked in the examination. Hence, candidates should practice enough questions related to the topic.

During the British Colonial Period in the 18th and 19th centuries, social struggles against British atrocities also included the peasant movements. Visit the linked article to go through the important Peasant Movements in Indian History.

Sample Questions On Indian National Movements

The questions below are only provided as a guide, and applicants are advised to check the Previous Year Question Papers with Solution PDF to familiarise themselves with the range and variety of questions asked in the government exams relating to the topic.

Q.1. Which act during the Indian freedom struggle was known as the ‘Black Bill’?

• Government of India Act
• Indian Council Act
• Rowlatt Act
• Child Marriages Restraint Act

Q.2. The provision for a separate electorate for Hindus and Muslims was made in___.

• Minto-Morley reforms
• Government of India Act, 1935
• Mountbatten Plan
• Montague Chelmsford reforms

Q.3. ____ played an important role in the formation of the Indian National Congress. Name the English Officer.

• Sir Stafford Cripps
• Sir John Simon
• Lord Curzon

Q.4. The Rowlatt Act enactment immediately preceeds____.

• Non- Cooperation Movement
• Simon commission Arrival
• Jallianwala Bagh Massacre
• Communal Awards

Q.5. ____ remarked, “Nehru is a patriot while Jinnah is a politician”

• Abdul Gaffar Khan
• Maulana Azad
• Sir Mohammed Iqbal
• Mahatma Gandhi

Q.6. In which session did the Indian National Congress declare Poorna Swaraj (Complete Independence) to be its goal?

• Lahore, 1929
• Lucknow, 1916
• Tripuri, 1939
• Lahore, 1940

Answer: (1)

Q.7. The Khilafat Movement was started by:

• Muhmmad Ali Jinnah
• Dr Zakir Hussain
• Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed
• Ali Brothers

Answer: (4)

Q.8. The Hunter Commission was appointed by the British to probe the:

• Chauri-Chaura incident
• Jallianwala Bagh tragedy
• Khilafat Movement
• Non-Co-operation Movement

Answer: (2)

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