Bengaluru, 11 August 2026: The contribution of India’s freedom struggle is often viewed mainly through the lens of non-violence and Satyagraha. However, the struggle for independence also witnessed the courage and sacrifice of numerous revolutionaries who adopted different forms of resistance against British rule.
A new Kannada book, ‘Krantiya Kidigalu’, seeks to bring the stories of such lesser-known freedom fighters to a wider audience. Written by D. G. Lakshman and published by Rashtrotthana Sahitya, the book features the stories of around 33 unsung and lesser-known freedom fighters.
The book was released on Tuesday, August 11, at Keshava Krupa in Chamarajpet, Bengaluru, by C. R. Mukund, Sah-Sarkaryavah of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
Speaking at the book release, Mukund said there is a widespread perception that India achieved independence only through non-violence and Satyagraha. While these movements played an important role, he said, the sacrifices and determined struggles of revolutionaries also had a significant place in the freedom movement.
According to Mukund, different streams contributed to India’s freedom struggle. While one section sought freedom through appeals to the British, another strongly asserted that freedom was the nation’s right. A third stream comprised revolutionaries who chose armed resistance and responded to British force through their own methods.
He also pointed out that another section worked towards freedom through social reform and transformation.
“Revolutionary movements were present from the time of the First War of Independence itself,” Mukund said, adding that the book documents the lives of several people who participated in armed struggles against British rule.
He said the book was particularly relevant during the Independence Day period as it provides an opportunity for readers to learn about freedom fighters whose names and contributions have not received sufficient attention.
Stories of Forgotten Revolutionaries
Author D. G. Lakshman said the book attempts to introduce readers to several freedom fighters whose stories remain largely unknown. Among them is Musai Singh, who, according to the author, was arrested during the 1857 uprising and spent decades in imprisonment in the Andaman Islands.
Lakshman said that while many Indians are familiar with the story of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar and his imprisonment in the Andamans, Musai Singh’s story has received far less attention.
“Musai Singh spent 50 years in imprisonment, but his story has not received the recognition it deserves,” Lakshman said.
He added that a historian had written about Musai Singh in a book titled 1857 Freedom of South India. However, the author said, a photograph of Musai Singh could not be found while researching the book.
Lakshman also referred to Hemu Kalani, who participated in the freedom movement and was executed at the age of 19.
The book also contains the story of the Murmu brothers, two tribal freedom fighters who mobilised people living in forest regions to resist British rule. According to Lakshman, both brothers were subsequently captured and executed by the British.
“These are stories of freedom fighters whom many of us may never have heard about. The book brings together the stories of around 33 such unknown and lesser-known freedom fighters,” he said.
Remembering the Many Streams of the Freedom Movement
The book seeks to present a broader understanding of India’s freedom struggle by documenting the lives of revolutionaries and other lesser-known figures who fought against British rule. The publication comes ahead of Independence Day and aims to encourage readers, particularly younger generations, to explore the diverse stories and sacrifices associated with India’s independence movement.
The programme was attended by D. G. Lakshman, author of Krantiya Kidigalu; M. P. Kumar, President of Rashtrotthana Parishat; Na. Dinesh Hegde, Secretary; K. S. Narayana, Treasurer; and other dignitaries.
‘Krantiya Kidigalu’ is published by Rashtrotthana Sahitya.
Keywords
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