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New Delhi, Oct 26 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, during his monthly radio program ‘Mann Ki Baat’, paid tribute to respected tribal leader Komaram Bhima, who led the Gond rebellion against the British and the feudal Nizams of Hyderabad in 1928.
Highlighting Bhima’s courage, sacrifice and lasting legacy, the Prime Minister said he left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions of people, especially within the tribal community.
The Prime Minister said, “I will now take you in flashback. Imagine the beginning of the 20th century! There was no hope of independence at that time. The British had crossed all limits of exploitation across India and at that time the period of oppression was even more frightening for the patriotic people of Hyderabad. They were also forced to bear the atrocities of the cruel and merciless Nizam.”
He said, “The atrocities against the poor, the underprivileged and the tribal communities knew no bounds. Their lands were taken away and heavy taxes were also imposed. If they protested against this injustice, their hands were also chopped off.”
He described the bravery of a young man who stood up against this atrocity.
He said, “In such difficult times, a young man of about 20 years stood up against this injustice. Today I am talking about that young man for a special reason. Before telling his name, I will tell you about his bravery.”
“At that time, when it was a crime to speak even a word against the Nizam, the young man openly challenged an officer of the Nizam named Siddiqui. The Nizam had sent Siddiqui to confiscate the crops of the farmers. But in this struggle against oppression, the young man killed Siddiqui. He also managed to escape arrest. Escaping from the tyrannical police of the Nizam, the young man reached Assam, Hundreds of kilometers away,” PM Modi said.
He said, “The great personality I am talking about is Komaram Bheem. His birth anniversary was celebrated on October 22. Komaram Bheem’s life was not long; he lived only for 40 years, but during his lifetime he left an indelible mark on the hearts of countless people, especially the tribal community.”
“He instilled new strength in those who fought against the Nizam. He was also known for his strategic skills. He became a major challenge to the Nizam’s rule. He was killed by the Nizam’s men in 1940. I urge the youth to try to learn as much as possible about him,” the Prime Minister said.
PM Modi said the story of Komaram Bheem will continue to inspire generations and symbolizes the spirit of resistance and courage that defined India’s freedom struggle.
–IANS
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