Vasudeo Balvant Phadke (1845-1883)

Vasudeo Balvant Phadke, born on November 4, 1845, in the village of Shirghon in Raigad district, is esteemed as the first revolutionary of modern India who took up arms against the British colonial rule. Often hailed as the father of the armed struggle for India’s freedom, Phadke’s valiant efforts are said to have inspired Bankim Chandra Chatterjee to pen the patriotic novel “Anand Math.” Phadke, true to the tradition of the Peshwas and the Marathas, derived his inspiration from Shivaji Maharaj.

Early Life and Background

Phadke was trained in wrestling, fencing, and horse riding, becoming an expert in the use of arms. Despite his physical prowess, he had little inclination for formal education and left high school to take up various jobs. In 1870, he joined the public agitation in Pune, advocating for the redress of people’s grievances. Committed to the cause of Swadeshi, he vowed to use only Khadi clothes and indigenous products. He founded the Aikya Vardhini Sabha to promote national education in Pune.

Turning Point

A pivotal moment in Phadke’s life occurred when he was unable to see his dying mother due to delays in obtaining leave from his office. This incident fueled his anger and grief, propelling him towards revolutionary activities. In 1875, the deposition of the Gaikwad of Baroda by the British further ignited sentiments in Maharashtra. Coupled with the severe famine in the state, Phadke was deeply affected by the suffering and the British rulers’ indifference.

Revolutionary Activities

Phadke began delivering powerful public speeches critiquing the British administration. Drawing inspiration from Thoreau, he declared it the right of all men to resist a tyrannical or inefficient government. He advocated for Swaraj (self-rule) as the solution to the country’s woes and encouraged his compatriots to strive for independence.

Unable to garner support from the educated class, Phadke turned to the Ramosis, Kolis, Bhils, and Dangars to organize a revolt. He assembled a band of about three hundred men and initiated a series of raids on wealthy businessmen to fund his liberation efforts. His aim was to orchestrate simultaneous attacks across the country and disrupt communication links. Despite his limited success, Phadke’s actions posed a significant threat to the British, who responded by placing a bounty on his capture.

Capture and Legacy

Undeterred by the British response, Phadke issued a proclamation threatening the government and offered a reward for the capture of the Governor of Bombay. He sought to recruit Rohillas and Arabs to his cause but was eventually captured in Nizam’s territory in July 1879. His diary and autobiography served as key evidence in his trial, leading to a sentence of transportation for life. Considered too dangerous for the Andamans, Phadke was imprisoned in Aden, where he died on February 17, 1883.

Commemoration

In honor of Vasudeo Balwant Phadke’s contributions to India’s struggle for independence, the Indian Posts & Telegraphs Department issued a commemorative stamp. Phadke’s legacy as a pioneer revolutionary and a symbol of resistance against British colonial rule continues to inspire future generations.

References

The above text is based on material published elsewhere and/or supplied by the sponsors.