Surya Narayan Vidhyarti was born on 16 March 1911, hailing from the Lakhimpur Khiri district of Uttar Pradesh. Having received his primary education in his hometown, Vidhyarti pursued a career in journalism.
His fervent dedication to the cause of independence began during his student years. Actively engaged in the Civil Disobedience Movement of 1930, he had the privilege of meeting several Congress leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi. Despite multiple arrests throughout his life, he remained steadfast in his revolutionary pursuits, unwavering in his commitment to serve the nation. In 1930, he faced imprisonment for one year, yet upon his release, he resumed his activism. However, in 1932, he was once again incarcerated, this time for one and a half years, and fined a sum of 100 rupees along with 30 strokes of a cane.
Deeply influenced by the ideologies of Mahatma Gandhi and Vinoba Bhave, Vidhyarti actively participated in the "Individual Movement" of 1940, contributing significantly to the freedom struggle. Unfortunately, in 1941, he was arrested again, enduring a one-year prison sentence and a fine of 20 rupees.
Surya Narayan Vidhyarti passed away on 7 March 1962, at his residence in the Lakhimpur Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh.
Jail documents issued by the Superintendent of Lakhimpur Kheri Jail.
Jail documents issued by the Superintendent of Lakhimpur Kheri Jail.
Source: Simpi Maurya, Contributor for CCRT.