Durga Prasad Chaudhary

Nationalist, Freedom Fighter and Pioneer Journalist

Early Life and Inspiration

Durga Prasad Chaudhary, fondly remembered as “Kaptan Sahib”, was born on 18th December, 1906 at Neem–ka–Thana in Rajasthan. He was deeply influenced by his father Muralidhar, a noted social reformer. From a young age, Durga Prasad Chaudhary was inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s call to the youth to participate in the struggle against British rule and became a devoted follower of Gandhian ideals.

Role in the Freedom Movement

Durga Prasad Chaudhary actively participated in India’s freedom struggle. A few days before the Salt Satyagraha, when a camp of the Congress Seva Dal was held at Hatunda, Ajmer, he was appointed as the Captain of the Seva Dal, a position he held until 1945—earning him the enduring title of Kaptan Sahib.

He played a significant role in the Civil Disobedience Movement and the Quit India Movement, and was imprisoned several times between 1930 and 1947 for his nationalist activities. After independence, he continued his public service as a Member of the Ajmer Municipal Council from 1948 to 1953.

Contribution to Journalism

Durga Prasad Chaudhary was a pioneer journalist committed to truth and nationalism. On 2nd October, 1936, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, he founded the weekly newspaper “Dainik Navajyoti” to boldly write against British rule.

During the Quit India Movement in 1942, the newspaper was suspended due to the repressive policies of the British Government. It resumed publication in 1945 and became a daily newspaper in 1948. Under his stewardship, Dainik Navajyoti upheld Gandhian ideals, promoted patriotism, opposed violence and communal hatred, and maintained a reputation for impartiality, truthfulness and fairness. The newspaper completed 75 years of its establishment in 2011.

Social Reform and Work for Farmers

Durga Prasad Chaudhary was equally committed to social upliftment, particularly of farmers. As a patron of Kisan Sangh, Ajmer, established in 1982, he organized Kisan Sabhas in about 700 villages of Ajmer district to raise awareness against social evils. He firmly believed that true independence would be meaningless unless issues such as hunger, poverty, untouchability and inequality were eradicated.

Legacy

All through his life, Durga Prasad Chaudhary worked tirelessly for a progressive, just and modern India, guided by the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi. He passed away on 29th June, 1992, leaving behind a legacy of patriotism, ethical journalism and social commitment.

Commemorative Postage Stamp

In recognition of his invaluable contribution as a freedom fighter, journalist and social reformer, the Department of Posts is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on Durga Prasad Chaudhary, honouring his enduring service to the nation.