Matangini Hazra
On the 81st anniversary of her martyrdom, Matangini Hazra, often affectionately known as “Gandhiburi,” continues to be a symbol of unwavering dedication to India’s struggle for independence. Her life and sacrifices are a testament to her role as a staunch Gandhian and an inspiring Indian revolutionary.
81st Anniversary of Martyrdom of Matangini Hazra
This year marks the 81st anniversary of Matangini Hazra’s martyrdom, a somber occasion to remember her remarkable contribution to India’s fight for freedom.
This topic of “Matangini Hazra” is important from the perspective of the UPSC IAS Examination, which falls under General Studies Portion.
Who Was Matangini Hazra?
Indian Revolutionary: Matangini Hazra was an Indian revolutionary who dedicated her life to the cause of India’s independence from British colonial rule. Her commitment to the nation made her a prominent figure in the struggle.
Staunch Gandhian: She was a staunch follower of Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of non-violence and civil disobedience. Her adherence to these ideals set her apart as a leader committed to peaceful resistance.
Nickname: Gandhiburi: Matangini Hazra was affectionately called “Gandhiburi” due to her unwavering commitment to Gandhi’s principles.
Why She is Known For
Arrest During Civil Disobedience Movement, 1930
Matangini Hazra’s involvement in the Civil Disobedience Movement of 1930 led to her arrest by British authorities. This marked her early activism in the fight for India’s independence.
Active Membership in Indian National Congress
Throughout her life, Matangini Hazra remained actively associated with the Indian National Congress, a pivotal organization in India’s struggle for independence.
Significance of Matangini Hazra
Becoming a Martyr at Age 73
Matangini Hazra’s extraordinary dedication to the cause of freedom led her to become a martyr at the age of 73.
Leading a Protest March in 1942
In 1942, she led a protest march in Tamluk, Bengal, during the Quit India Movement. Tragically, she fell to British bullets, becoming the earliest casualty of this historic movement.
Recognized as One of Bengal’s Nationalist Icons
Matangini Hazra is widely recognized as one of Bengal’s nationalist icons, and her sacrifices continue to inspire generations of Indians.
Influence Reflected in Her Legacy
Her influence is reflected in various ways:
- Roads, Schools, Neighborhoods Named After Her: In West Bengal, numerous roads, schools, and neighborhoods are named after Matangini Hazra, honoring her legacy and contribution.
- First Statue in Kolkata Maidan Dedicated to a Woman Revolutionary: In 1977, a historic moment was marked with the unveiling of the first statue dedicated to a woman revolutionary in Kolkata Maidan, honoring Matangini Hazra’s indomitable spirit.
Where and When
Birthplace: Hogla Village, Near Tamluk, West Bengal
Matangini Hazra was born in Hogla village, near Tamluk, in West Bengal, which would later become the backdrop of her heroic resistance against British colonial rule.
Birth Year: 1869
She was born in the year 1869, at a time when India was still under British colonial domination.
Death Year: 1942
Matangini Hazra breathed her last in 1942, during the Quit India Movement, leaving behind a legacy of courage and unwavering commitment to India’s struggle for freedom.
