Hanmant Venkati Koli (Uttarwad), a freedom fighter was born in 1905 in Kolheborgaon village, located in the Bilolitaluka of Nanded district. He tied the knot with Gangabai (Lakshmibai) and played a pivotal role in the Marathwada liberation movement. Despite being uneducated, he earned the nickname "Hanmaji Master" for his impressive kirtan performances. He was involved in several Satyagrahas alongside Rajaram Deshmukh, Jaywantrao Patil, Vaifnikar, Bansilal, and Sahebrao Bardkar.
During the famous Umri Bank robbery, he led around 40–50 workers and tied 50 cotton bullock carts to participate actively in the campaign. This successful bank robbery helped finance their movement, as they had no other options. However, an arrest warrant was issued against him in connection with the robbery. The Nizam government took out warrants against all workers in Nanded district, resulting in house-to-house inquiries and calls to overwhelm houses and farms. This caused widespread terror among ordinary citizens, who did not support him out of fear for the safety of their families.
Despite his active participation in the freedom struggle for three years, he was eventually arrested, tried, and sentenced. After Marathwada gained independence on 17.09.1948, Hanmaji Master, a brave freedom fighter, chose a life of sacrifice. Under the guidance of Guruvarya Gobind Maharaj Mukhedkar, he began playing veena in the Maroti temple at Borgaon. On 7.06.1948, he received a certificate and copper plate as a freedom fighter from the Biloli tehsildar. He passed away on 8.05.2008. Although he is no longer with us, his active work and ideas continue to inspire and motivate the new generation and society.
Samman Patra issued by Maharashtra Government
Tamra Patra issued by Prime Minister Rajeev Gandhi
Medal issued by Maharashtra Government
Source: Kavita Damodarrao Joshi, DRP, CCRT