Jalad Barani Ghosh, a valiant figure in the annals of India's struggle for independence, was born in 1922 in Kharar, a town nestled within the Ghatal subdivision of West Midnapore.
Jalad, alongside numerous other women from Duadand, played an active role in the Swadeshi movement through the Duadand Charka Kendra. Her leadership qualities soon became evident as she assumed a prominent position within the Charka movement, extending her influence to neighbouring villages, including Duadand itself. Beyond her dedication to the Charka movement, she exhibited remarkable courage by secretly sheltering and aiding revolutionaries in their quest for independence, as documented in the autobiography of Gandhian leader Prafulla Chandra Sen.
In 1940, her involvement in a Charka conference held at Sabalsinghpur brought her to the attention of the police. However, her true moment of heroism unfolded during the Quit India Movement in 1942 when British police descended upon the Duadand Charka Kendra under the guise of an investigation. She fearlessly led a blockade against the police, staunchly defending the principles of freedom movements.
Remaining a steadfast adherent of Gandhian principles, she continued spinning the Charka even after India achieved independence. Her unwavering commitment to producing yarn persisted throughout her lifetime.
Jalad Barani Ghosh passed away in 2019.
Pension order issued by Government of India in 2005.
Source: Sujatak Kumar, Contributor for CCRT