Unsung Heroes | History Corner | Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, Ministry of Culture, Government of India

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Paying tribute to India’s freedom fighters

Ganpat Sakharam Yadav

Kolhapur, Maharashtra

May 22, 2023 to May 22, 2024

Ganpat Sakharam Yadav's story is a remarkable one, as he was the youngest of all the freedom fighters researched during the archival research. Hailing from Kolhapur, he belonged to the Maratha community and was only 14 years old when he was arrested for his involvement in the civil disobedience movement.

Despite his young age, Ganpat was passionate about the movement and actively participated in it. He was arrested for leading an evening pheri of protestors and distributing Congress bulletins. These actions were considered a direct challenge to the British authorities, and Ganpat was charged under section 17(2) of the Criminal Law Amendment Act. On 13 December 1932, Ganpat was sentenced to one-month rigorous imprisonment and a fine of rupees one hundred. His punishment was a harsh one for a boy so young, but he bore it with courage and resilience. His sacrifice for the nation's welfare and his unwavering commitment to the cause of Indian independence deserve to be remembered and celebrated.

Ganpat's story is a testament to the fact that age is no bar when it comes to fighting for what one believes in. Despite being just a teenager, he had the courage and conviction to stand up against the oppressive colonial regime and work towards a better future for his country. His example serves as an inspiration to young people everywhere to take up the mantle of leadership and work towards building a better world.

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