Former Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Bhupesh Baghel, paid heartfelt tributes to Amar Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh on the occasion of his martyrdom day. Veer Narayan Singh, a true son of Chhattisgarh, was a remarkable warrior and the first freedom fighter of the state.
Baghel reflected on the unparalleled dedication, relentless struggle, and ultimate sacrifice for the motherland that marked Veer Narayan Singh’s legacy. The late leader played a pivotal role in the Sonakhan movement, sounding the trumpet of the Indian freedom struggle in the region during 1856-57.
Veer Narayan Singh: The 1st Chhattisgarhi Freedom Fighter
Veer Narayan Singh, born in 1795, hailed from Sonakhan in present-day Chhattisgarh. He is revered as “The 1st Chhattisgarhi freedom fighter” and belonged to the tribal binjhwar community. His notable biography is chronicled in Veer Udyan Sonakhan.
Taking over the land lordship rights at the age of thirty-five from his father Ram Rai, Veer Narayan Singh became the youngest landlord in the region. His commitment to the cause led to his arrest by the British in 1856 for redistributing grain stocks amongst the poor during a severe famine.
The Rebellion and Execution
In 1856, with the assistance of British Army soldiers in Raipur, Veer Narayan Singh escaped from prison and formed an army of 500 men in Sonakhan. The British responded with a powerful army led by Smith to crush the Sonakhan rebellion.
Tragically, Veer Narayan Singh was executed on December 10, 1857, at Jaistambh Chowk in Raipur, becoming the first martyr from Chhattisgarh in the Rebellion.
Bhupesh Baghel’s tribute reflects the enduring respect and gratitude towards Amar Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh, commemorating his pivotal role in Chhattisgarh’s fight for freedom.
