DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
JAMMU, Dec 26
In a spirited commemoration at Mahesh Pura Park in Jammu, the birth anniversary of the revered revolutionary, Udham Singh, unfolded with great enthusiasm. Udham Singh, known for his pivotal role in avenging the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, was hanged for the assassination of Michael O’Dwyer in London.
On Tuesday, members of the Freedom Fighter Memorial Association (FFMA) gathered at Mahesh Pura Park to pay homage to Udham Singh. The ceremony included the garlanding of Udham Singh’s photograph and heartfelt tributes to the fearless freedom fighter.
Udham Singh’s sacrifice took place on July 31, 1940, when he was executed at Pentonville Prison in London for the assassination of Michael O’Dwyer. O’Dwyer, the Punjab’s Lieutenant Governor, held a significant position during the tragic Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amritsar on April 13, 1919. The massacre, orchestrated by Brigadier-General Reginald Dyer, resulted in the death of at least 400 people and left over 1,000 injured as troops fired upon unarmed civilians gathered at Jallianwala Bagh.
The special program at Mahesh Pura Park witnessed the presence of notable figures, including Rajiv Mahajan, Chairman of FFMA, Prof. S.S Bhalwal, President, Karnail Chand, General Secretary, and other esteemed members. Rajiv Mahajan emphasized Udham Singh’s unparalleled contribution to the country’s freedom struggle, noting that his legacy continues to inspire patriotism in the hearts of the youth for generations.
Prof. S.S Bhalwal underscored the enduring challenge presented by the vision of freedom movement heroes like Udham Singh, urging a commitment to upholding democratic values. Karnail Chand expressed pride in Udham Singh, describing him as a witness to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre who avenged it in a fitting manner. Pritam Sharma echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the duty to build the India envisioned by fearless freedom fighters like Udham Singh. Born on December 26, 1899, in Sunam, Sangrur district of Punjab, Udham Singh’s legacy stands as a beacon of courage and determination.
In addition to honoring Udham Singh, FFMA members also paid respects to Shaheedi Diwas Vadde Sahibzade and the security forces of India who sacrificed their lives for the nation. The commemorative event served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by these heroes, urging the present generation to carry forward the spirit of patriotism and uphold the democratic ideals envisioned by the freedom fighters of yesteryears.