Who Was Kartaar Singh Sarabha?

Kartaar Singh Sarabha: The Young Revolutionary Who Inspired India’s Struggle for Freedom

Kartaar Singh Sarabha, a name that resonates with the undying spirit of India’s freedom struggle, was one of the youngest and most dynamic revolutionaries who laid down his life for the country’s independence. Born in a time when British colonial rule had a tight grip over India, Kartaar Singh Sarabha became a beacon of hope for countless revolutionaries and patriots. His life, though short, was filled with passion, bravery, and an unwavering commitment to liberate India from the yoke of British oppression.

Early Life and Education

Kartaar Singh Sarabha was born on May 24, 1896, in the village of Sarabha, located in the Ludhiana district of Punjab. He hailed from a prosperous family, and his early life was comfortable, with access to education and other privileges. His family believed in the power of education, which was evident when, after completing his initial schooling in Punjab, Kartaar Singh was sent to the United States in 1912 to pursue further studies.

At the age of 16, Kartaar Singh landed in San Francisco, California, where he enrolled at the University of California, Berkeley. However, his exposure to the global revolutionary movements, the Indian diaspora, and the plight of Indians under British rule soon transformed him into a staunch patriot. In the U.S., he came into contact with several Indian immigrants who were already deeply involved in the revolutionary activities aimed at ending British colonial rule in India.

The Ghadar Party and Revolutionary Activities

While in the United States, Kartaar Singh Sarabha became actively involved with the Ghadar Party, a revolutionary group founded by Indian immigrants in North America. The Ghadar Party’s primary objective was to overthrow British rule in India through armed revolution. The word “Ghadar” means “revolt,” and the party was committed to launching a nationwide uprising to achieve India’s freedom.

Kartaar Singh Sarabha was one of the youngest members of the Ghadar Party, but his youthful enthusiasm and passion quickly made him a central figure in the movement. He worked tirelessly, contributing to the party’s newspaper, Ghadar, which was published in multiple languages, including Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu, and distributed among Indians living in the U.S. and Canada. The newspaper aimed to instill revolutionary zeal among Indian immigrants and urged them to return to India to fight against British rule.

Kartaar Singh’s contributions to the Ghadar newspaper were not limited to writing articles. He also took on the role of a printer, often working late into the night to ensure the publication’s distribution. His dedication to the cause was unwavering, and he believed that it was the duty of every Indian, regardless of their location, to contribute to the liberation of the motherland.

The Return to India and the Failed Ghadar Uprising

As World War I broke out in 1914, the Ghadar Party saw a unique opportunity to launch a rebellion against British rule in India. The British Empire was heavily involved in the war, and the Ghadar leaders believed that this would be an opportune moment to strike. Plans were made to incite mutinies within the British Indian Army and launch coordinated uprisings across the country.

Kartaar Singh Sarabha, along with other Ghadar leaders, returned to India in 1914 to execute this plan. However, the British intelligence services had already infiltrated the Ghadar movement, and the British authorities were well aware of their plans. Many key Ghadar leaders were arrested upon their arrival in India, and the planned uprisings were either foiled or suppressed before they could gain momentum.

Despite the setbacks, Kartaar Singh Sarabha did not lose hope. He traveled across Punjab, spreading the message of revolution and attempting to organize armed resistance against British rule. He worked closely with other revolutionaries, including Vishnu Ganesh Pingle and Rash Behari Bose, to keep the movement alive. However, the British authorities were relentless in their crackdown, and Kartaar Singh was eventually arrested in 1915.

Trial and Execution

Kartaar Singh Sarabha, along with several other Ghadar revolutionaries, was put on trial for his involvement in the conspiracy to overthrow British rule. The trial, known as the Lahore Conspiracy Case, saw the British authorities impose harsh sentences on the revolutionaries. Kartaar Singh, despite being only 19 years old, was sentenced to death.

During the trial, Kartaar Singh Sarabha displayed remarkable courage and defiance. He never denied his involvement in the revolutionary activities and took full responsibility for his actions. His fearlessness in the face of death inspired many of his fellow revolutionaries and left a lasting impression on India’s freedom movement.

On November 16, 1915, Kartaar Singh Sarabha was hanged to death in the Lahore Central Jail. He was only 19 years old at the time of his execution, making him one of the youngest martyrs of India’s freedom struggle.

Legacy and Influence

Kartaar Singh Sarabha’s sacrifice had a profound impact on the Indian independence movement. His courage, dedication, and selflessness became an inspiration for countless revolutionaries, including the legendary Bhagat Singh. It is widely believed that Bhagat Singh kept a photograph of Kartaar Singh Sarabha in his pocket and considered him one of his greatest inspirations.

Even though the Ghadar movement did not achieve its immediate objectives, it played a crucial role in igniting the flames of revolution across India. The Ghadar Party’s efforts, along with the sacrifices of martyrs like Kartaar Singh Sarabha, laid the foundation for future revolutionary movements that ultimately led to India’s independence in 1947.

Commemorating Kartaar Singh Sarabha

Today, Kartaar Singh Sarabha is remembered as a national hero and a symbol of youthful defiance against injustice. His native village, Sarabha, has become a site of pilgrimage for those who seek to honor his memory. Several educational institutions, including Sarabha College in Ludhiana, have been named after him to keep his legacy alive.

In addition to these honors, statues and memorials dedicated to Kartaar Singh Sarabha can be found in various parts of Punjab and across India. His life and sacrifice are also a part of the Indian school curriculum, ensuring that future generations understand the role he played in India’s freedom struggle.

Conclusion

Kartaar Singh Sarabha’s life exemplifies the spirit of selflessness, courage, and dedication to a cause greater than oneself. At a time when India was gripped by fear and oppression, he rose as a symbol of hope and resistance. His sacrifice at the young age of 19 serves as a reminder of the high price that was paid for India’s freedom, and his legacy continues to inspire those who fight for justice and liberty.