India boasts a rich cultural diversity as well as a rich history. At one time, India was referred to as the "Golden Bird." Throughout history, despite being dominated by the British for a long period, the wealth and grandeur of the nation attracted invaders from around the world. India finally gained independence from colonial rule in 1947 after a long and arduous struggle. Numerous freedom fighters fought tirelessly to preserve the nation's glory, with some even sacrificing their lives in the pursuit of independence. The India Gate in Delhi was constructed as a tribute to the millions of brave freedom fighters who gave their lives so that we could live freely.

Out of respect for their tireless efforts and dedication, we have compiled a list of the top 10 Indian freedom fighters from the independence struggle. Without their sacrifices, an independent India would not exist today.

1. Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel (31 October 1875 – 15 December 1950)

Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel, also known as the Iron Man of India and Bismarck of India, was known for his bravery and exceptional qualities from a young age. He was a lawyer initially, but left his legal career to fight for India's independence from British rule. After India gained independence, he was appointed as the country's Deputy Prime Minister and worked tirelessly to unite the princely states into the Union of India. He was also awarded the prestigious Bharat Ratna in recognition of his hard work and dedication.

 

2.Jawaharlal Nehru (November 14, 1889 – May 27, 1964)

Jawaharlal Nehru, affectionately known as Chacha Nehru, was a beloved figure among children and his birthday is celebrated as Children’s Day. He began his career as a lawyer, but gained notoriety as an Indian freedom fighter and politician. Nehru was inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's efforts to free India from British rule, and actively participated in the independence movement. He rose to prominence as the President of the Indian National Congress, and became India's first Prime Minister after the country gained independence.

3.Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (2 October 1869 – 30 January 1948)

Often referred to as the "Father of the Nation," Mahatma Gandhi earned this title due to his great and noble actions, particularly his advocacy for non-violent movements. At the age of 13, he married Kasturba and later went to study law in London. During his time in South Africa, where he practiced law, he was deeply impacted by the racial discrimination he witnessed towards Indians and was inspired to fight for human rights. Upon his return to India, Gandhi eagerly joined the independence movement, leading various non-violent protests against British rule, including the famous "Dandi March."

 

4.Lal Bahadur Shastri (2 October 1904 – 11 January 1966)

Lal Bahadur Shastri was born on October 2nd, 1904 in Mughalsarai, Uttar Pradesh. He earned the title of "Shastri" after completing his education at Kashi Vidyapeeth. He was actively involved in the independence movements led by Mahatma Gandhi such as the Salt Satyagraha, Civil Disobedience, and Quit India. He spent time in jail as a result of his participation in the struggle for independence. After India's independence, he served as the Home Minister and then went on to become the second Prime Minister of India in 1964. He is famous for his famous slogan "Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan."

5. Dr Rajendra Prasad (3 December 1884 – 28 February 1963)

Dr. Rajendra Prasad was one of India's most renowned freedom fighters and served as the country's first president from 1950 to 1962. He played a significant role in the creation of the Indian Constitution and was a strong supporter of Mahatma Gandhi. He made contributions to the Independence Movement by fundraising for Searchlight and Desh and writing articles for these publications. He was re-elected as president for two consecutive terms and was awarded the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian honor, in 1962.

6. Subhas Chandra Bose (23 January 1897 – 18 August 1945)

Subhas Chandra Bose, also known as Netaji, was an Indian freedom fighter born in Orissa. He was deeply affected by the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, which led him to leave England for India in 1921. He joined the Indian National Congress and took part in the Civil Disobedience Movement, but later became frustrated with Gandhi's nonviolent approach to gaining independence. Bose then sought support from Germany and established the Azad Hind Government and Azad Hind Army, which later became the Indian National Army (INA), where he trained and led other freedom fighters.

7. Lala Lajpat Rai (28 January 1865 – 17 November 1928)

Lala Lajpat Rai, nicknamed "Punjab Kesari", was a prominent Indian freedom fighter, writer and a member of the Indian National Congress. He was also a part of the Lal-Bal-Pal group. He gained recognition in 1920 for his leadership in the Punjab Protest and Non-Cooperation Movement following the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. He died in 1928 during a demonstration against the Simon Commission after being subjected to a brutal British police attack.

8. Bhagat Singh (28 September 1907 – 23 March 1931)

Bhagat Singh, born in a Sikh family of independence activists in Punjab, was a prominent revolutionary and a revered Freedom Fighter in India who died as a martyr for the country. At the age of 23, he was executed by the British colonizers. He joined the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1921, and founded the "Naujawan Bharat Sabha" to inspire patriotism in Punjabi youth. The Chauri-Chaura Massacre was a turning point in his life. He is known as "Shaheed Bhagat Singh" and popularized the phrase "Inquilab Zindabad," which became the anthem of the Indian independence struggle.

9. Mangal Pandey (19 July 1827 – 8 April 1857)

Mangal Pandey was the first freedom fighter of India. He was a soldier in the British Army, but he rebelled when he found out that the cartridges given to the soldiers were lubricated with pig fat. His uprising inspired the Indians and he was the first to introduce the phrase "Maro Firangi Ko." He played a crucial role in starting the 1857 Great Rebellion, also known as India's First War of Independence, by motivating young Indian soldiers.

10. Nana Sahib (19 May 1824 – 1859)

Nana Sahib was an important figure in the 1857 uprising against British rule in India. He led a group of passionate rebels and famously attacked British soldiers in Kanpur, leaving no survivors. Nana Sahib was known for his bravery and administrative skills, as he effectively coordinated and led thousands of Indian fighters. He is regarded as one of the greatest freedom fighters in India.

Wooden Street is commemorating the 75th Independence Day by remembering the heroic efforts of India's freedom fighters. In addition to the famous ones, there were many other individuals such as Rani Lakshmi Bai, Tantia Tope, Sukhdev, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, Dadabhai Naoroji, and Chandra Shekhar Azad, who made significant contributions towards freeing their motherland. Wooden Street takes pride in celebrating the 75th Independence Day, made possible by the bravery and sacrifices of these freedom fighters.

The 75th Independence Day is being celebrated as 'Azadi ka अमृत महोत्सव' under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has called for a self-reliant and resurgent India. Wooden Street is also participating in the "Har Ghar Tiranga" campaign, which encourages people to hoist the Indian flag in their homes to mark the 75th anniversary of India's independence.