17 ஜூலை, 2024
 |
| Source: Amrit mahotsav |
Who was Colonel Neill:
Colonel Neill, infamous for his brutal role in suppressing the Indian Rebellion of 1857, earned the notorious title "Butcher of Allahabad." His ruthless methods left a lasting scar on Indian history, symbolized by a bronze statue erected by the British on Mount Road, Madras (now Chennai).
The Symbol of Oppression:
The Neill statue stood as a grim reminder of the atrocities committed by the British, fueling the Indians' insatiable hunger for freedom. Srinivasa Varadan from Madurai vehemently opposed this symbol of oppression, declaring that such a figure had no place in the soil of Mother India. This sentiment led to the formation of the 'Tamil Nadu Volunteer Corps' with the primary goal of dismantling the statue.
Neill Statue Satyagraha:
- The volunteers, led by Somayajalu Naidu and supported by Padmasini Ammal in Madurai, orchestrated the Neill Statue Satyagraha. The protest was meticulously planned for August 11, 1927. The Satyagrahis successfully damaged a portion of the statue, demonstrating their defiance. This act of resistance resulted in the imprisonment and fining of key leader Ganapathi Ayya.
- The Neill Statue Satyagraha is a significant chapter in India's struggle for independence, symbolizing the nation's resilience and determination to uproot colonial oppression. This event not only highlights the courage of the Tamil Nadu Volunteer Corps but also underscores the collective effort of Indians to reclaim their freedom and dignity.
- After the major leaders like Somayajalu and Swaminatha Mudaliar got arrested K. Kamaraj became the leader of the agitation (September, 1927). Mahatma Gandhi when he visited Madras during the time extended his support to the agitation. The Madras legislature passed resolutions demanding the removal of the statue.
- Neill Statue was later moved to Ripon Building and then to Madras Museum.
16 ஜூலை, 2024
 |
| P. Jeevanandham |
Birth : 21st August, 1907 near Nagarcoil in Kanyakumari District.Death : 18th January, 1963
P Jeevanandhan also fondly known as Jeeva is a famous Socio-political leader, Gandhian, Journalist and an excellent orator. He was born near Boothapandi in Nagarcoil in the erstwhile Princely state of Travancore. He was originally known as Sorimuthu named after his family god.
Political life:
In 1924, he participated in the Vaikom Satyagraha which was a nonviolent agitation for access to the prohibited Temple premises. He also participated in the Suchindram temple entry movement. He took care of Gandhian Ashram in Siruvayal where he met Mahatma Gandhi, who appreciated Jeeva for his involvement in the national movement. He hoisted the national flag on top of the temple cart of Suchindram temple at the time of its procession. In 1932, he took part in Civil Disobedience Movement and was sentenced to six months in Trichy Jail. He was arrested and imprisoned for six months for having translated the banned book of Bhagat Singh, “Why I am an atheist?” into Tamil in 1934. He was one of the founding members of the Madras Provincial Congress Socialist Party and became its first secretary in 1937.
He was elected as a member of the All India Congress Committee in 1938 and served as a member of the working Committee of the State Congress unit. He took part in Anti-War activities during 1939-42 and was arrested and kept in custody under the Defence of India Rules. He was imprisoned in Vellore and Madras jails for two years. Later, he joined the Communist Party of India and became a member of the Madras Legislative Assembly in 1952 from the Washermanpet constituency. He died on January 18, 1964.
10 ஜூலை, 2024
 |
| Thiruppur Kumaran |
Tiruppur Kumaran, originally named Kumarswamy Mudaliar, was born on October 4, 1904, in Chennimalai, Erode District, Tamil Nadu. Kumaran is celebrated as a significant figure in India's struggle for independence, deeply inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's principles.
Kumaran's dedication to the cause of Indian independence was evident through his active participation in various protests and movements against British rule. On January 10, 1932, he led a significant protest march in Tiruppur, carrying the Indian national flag. Despite being severely beaten by the British police, Kumaran refused to let the flag touch the ground, symbolizing his unwavering commitment to the nation. This act of defiance earned him the revered title of "Kodi Kaatha Kumaran" (Kumaran who protected the flag).
Tragically, Kumaran succumbed to his injuries the following day, on January 11, 1932. His martyrdom is a poignant reminder of the countless unsung heroes who fought for India's freedom. Tiruppur Kumaran’s sacrifice continues to inspire generations, embodying the spirit of resilience, patriotism, and unwavering dedication to the nation's cause.
Kumaran was associated with the Deshabandu Youth Association, which played a crucial role in mobilizing the youth for the independence movement.
