Tinkari Mukhopadhayay (also known as Mukherjee) was born in 1913 in the village of Natibpur, located under Khanakul police station in Hooghly district, West Bengal. Kalipada Mukhopadhayay and Shovarani Mukhopadhayay were his parents. During his early years, he received his primary education at the village Pathsala in Natibpur. At a young age, he became drawn to the freedom fighter camp at Nandanpur Rathtala in Khanakul. It was there that he came into contact with Prafulla Chandra Sen.
In 1930, he actively participated in the Salt Movement, a significant event during India's struggle for independence. During this time, he was present at a secret meeting against British rule led by Kalipada Karmakar at Nandanpur Rathtala in Hooghly. Unfortunately, he and his companions were caught by the British Police while being involved in the "Swadeshi" movement.
At Arambagh police station, he endured brutal torture at the hands of the British police, who wanted him to sign a self-declaration stating that he was not involved in the Swadeshi movement. He was sentenced to imprisonment at Arambagh Jail. Subsequently, he was transferred to Chinsurah Jail for a six-month term and later to Alipore Central Jail.
After his release, he returned to his home in Natibpur, where he contracted chickenpox, leading to a loss of vision in his eyes.
After India gained independence, he was recognized for his significant contribution to the freedom struggle and in 1972, the Government of India awarded him a Tamra Patra in honour of his bravery and dedication as a freedom fighter.
Tinkari Mukhopadhayay passed away in 1981.
Tamra Patra awarded to Tinkari Mukhopadhayay by Government of India in 1972.
Source: Uday Sankar Chakrabortty, Contributor for CCRT