Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday remembered freedom fighter Bhai Parmanand for his contributions to India’s independence movement, his association with the Arya Samaj and his involvement in the Ghadar movement, ahead of his 150th birth anniversary on November 4.
Speaking during the 139th episode of his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, the Prime Minister described Bhai Parmanand as an influential figure whose life and sacrifices continued to inspire generations. He also urged young people to learn about the freedom fighter’s legacy and share his story with others.
PM Modi said the Arya Samaj played an important role in shaping Bhai Parmanand’s ideals and public service. In the early 20th century, he travelled to South Africa in connection with the organisation’s activities, where he met Mahatma Gandhi. He also worked among the Girmitiya community in Guyana, which had an established Arya Samaj presence.
Recalling his own visit to Guyana, the Prime Minister said he had the opportunity to visit an Arya Samaj memorial there.
Highlighting Bhai Parmanand’s role in the freedom struggle, PM Modi said he was among the founding members of the Ghadar Party and helped inspire other revolutionaries. The Prime Minister also referred to his role in encouraging Lala Har Dayal to travel to the United States. Bhai Parmanand was later sentenced by the British authorities to transportation to the Andaman Islands, commonly referred to as ‘Kala Pani’, for his involvement in the independence movement.
The Prime Minister also drew attention to Bhai Parmanand’s account of his imprisonment, Aapbeeti: Kaale Paani Ki Kaaraavaas Kahaani, saying the book offers insights into the hardships and sacrifices endured by freedom fighters under British rule.
After completing his prison sentence, Bhai Parmanand turned towards education. PM Modi noted that he had also taught Bhagat Singh, who later became one of the prominent figures of India’s revolutionary movement.
The Prime Minister further recalled Bhai Parmanand’s association with the Hindu Mahasabha during the later years of his life, describing his journey across different movements and institutions as a significant part of his public life.
-IANS
