Shivaram Hari Rajguru, born on August 24, 1908, in Khed, Maharashtra, remains etched in India’s history for his valiant role in the fight against British colonial rule. His indomitable spirit and dedication to the cause of independence shaped his revolutionary journey.
Early Life and Education
Rajguru hailed from a Marathi Deshastha Brahmin family and grew up in the town of Khed, near Pune. The early loss of his father placed the responsibility of the family on his elder brother Dinkar. Despite challenges, Rajguru pursued education with determination. He received primary education in Khed and later attended the New English High School in Pune.
Path to Revolution: Joining the HSRA
Driven by a fervent desire to free India from British oppression, Rajguru became an active member of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA). The HSRA aimed to achieve India’s liberation through any means necessary, and Rajguru’s involvement was marked by his dedication and fearlessness.
A Trio of Patriots: The Lahore Conspiracy
“Rajguru’s name is forever intertwined with those of Bhagat Singh & Sukhdev Thapar. Together, they formed a formidable trio of patriots who sought to avenge the unjust beating of Lala Lajpat Rai by the police during a protest against the Simon Commission. The trio planned and executed the assassination of British police officer J.P. “John” Saunders on 17 December 1928, in Lahore”.
Legacy: Immortalizing Rajguru’s Name
Rajguru’s sacrifice and dedication continue to inspire generations across India. His birthplace, Khed, was renamed Rajgurunagar as a tribute to his memory. This census town in Maharashtra’s Pune district stands as a reminder of his bravery and commitment to the nation’s cause.
Rajguru Wada: Ancestral House as a Memorial
The ancestral house where Rajguru was born has been preserved as a memorial known as Rajguru Wada. Situated on the banks of the Bhima River along the Pune-Nashik Road, Rajguru Wada symbolizes his legacy. The Hutatma Rajguru Smarak Samiti hoists the national flag here on Republic Day, honoring his sacrifice.
Educational Institutions in His Name
Shivaram Rajguru’s legacy lives on through educational institutions that bear his name. The Shaheed Rajguru College of Applied Sciences for Women, located in Delhi’s Vasundhara Enclave, is a constituent college of Delhi University, symbolizing his enduring influence in the field of education.
Conclusion: Remembering a Hero
Shivaram Hari Rajguru’s life story is a testament to his unwavering courage, commitment, and sacrifice. As we honor his memory, we are reminded of the sacrifices made by countless revolutionaries who laid down their lives for India’s freedom. Rajguru’s legacy serves as a beacon of inspiration for individuals striving to make a positive impact on society and secure a better future for the nation.
