India marks its 79th Independence Day today on August 15, 2025. August 15, 1947 also marked India’s freedom from over 200 years of British colonial rule. People from all parts of India, including Bihar, played a pivotal role in India’s independence. Talking about Bihar, freedom fighters like Babu Veer Kunwar Singh (1777-1858) to Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi have left their indelible mark in the India’s independence movement with their battles against the British rule. Additionally, Dr Rajendra Prasad, Jayaprakash Narayan and many others are other prominent leaders who led the freedom movement against the British regime and also shaped India’s political landscape with their writings and opinions.
This article compiles a detailed overview of the contribution to India’s independence movement by all freedom fighters from Bihar.
Babu Veer Kunwar Singh
One of the bravest heroes of India’s independence, Babu Veer Kunwar Singh was born in Jagdishpur (present-day Bhojpur district, Bihar) in the year 1777. He belonged to the Ujjainiya clan of Parmar Rajputs of Jagdishpur. Babu Veer Kunwar Singh led the Indian revolt of 1857 in Bihar and was about 80 years old when he led the fight against British. His health was also in poor condition. However, the age and poor health, couldn’t stop Babu Veer Kunwar Singh from fighting against the British regime.
Champaran Satyagraha
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi led the Champaran Satyagraha in 1917 to address the exploitation of Indigo farmers in India during the British rule. The farmers in Champaran were oppressed under the ‘tinkathia’ system. Under this system, they were forced grow indigo on part of their land. With worsening conditions and economic distress, Mahatma Gandhi was invited by Rajkumar Shukla to investigate their plight.
Dr Rajendra Prasad’s contribution
Another eminent figure in the India’s freedom struggle, Dr. Rajendra Prasad became close to Mahatma Gandhi in the Calcutta session of Congress. Mr Prasad had reached Motihari with volunteers on Mahatma Gandhiji’s call and stayed with him wherever he went. Dr. Prasad left his advocacy profession after the Civil Disobedience Movement started by Gandhiji.
Jayaprakash Narayan’s contribution
Another prominent Indian leader and theorist, Jayaprakash Narayan had to undergo a year’s imprisonment for his participation in the Civil Disobedience Movement against British rule in India. The British imprisoned Mr Narayan in 1939 for his opposition to Indian participation in World War II on the side of Britain.
Also read: Happy Independence Day 2025: Best Wishes, Quotes, Messages to share with Your Loved Ones
