Lucknow: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that India must reclaim the forgotten chapters of its freedom struggle, as he unveiled the statue of 1857 freedom warrior Veerangana Uda Devi Pasi at Pasi Chauraha in Vrindavan Sector-19 along with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The ceremony was held on the occasion of Uda Devi’s martyrdom day.
Speaking at the event, Singh asserted that several women warriors were deliberately sidelined in historical narratives, despite playing a decisive role in India’s fight for independence. “Uda Devi was not just a participant in 1857; she was one of its strongest pillars. Her courage and sacrifice will forever inspire the nation,” he said.
Singh noted that the Pasi community had made “remarkable and unforgettable” contributions to India’s struggle against British rule, citing examples from both the First War of Independence and the Awadh Kisan Movement. He highlighted the legacy of Madari Pasi, describing him as a symbol of rural resistance. “When oppressive taxes were imposed on farmers, Madari Pasi became their protector. The British placed a reward of ₹1,000 on his head, yet they could never capture him,” Singh said.
He further added that the community’s historical roots extend “even earlier than Emperor Ashoka,” recalling the legacy of Maharaja Bijli Pasi, the founder of Bijnor. “He constructed twelve strong forts—symbols of prosperity, might and strategic brilliance. Yet he never received due recognition. This is not just a failure of historians; it is a collective lapse,” Singh remarked.
Emphasising the need to reclaim India’s “erased history,” the Defence Minister urged scholars and researchers to bring forward stories of unsung heroes from Dalit, tribal, OBC and marginalised communities. “India’s true strength emerges only when every section of society receives its rightful honour,” he said.
Singh also criticised the manner in which the freedom struggle has traditionally been portrayed. “It was made to appear as if Independence was won by a few leaders or a particular group. The reality is far broader. Thousands of forgotten warriors—women, Dalits, tribals—fought with unmatched courage,” he stated.
Highlighting initiatives taken by the government, Singh said that efforts are underway to ensure such forgotten heroes receive due recognition. “In 2000, our government issued a postage stamp in honour of Maharaja Bijli Pasi. Today, I am happy to share that a grand memorial for him will soon be built in Lucknow,” he said. He also praised Chief Minister Adityanath for incorporating the history of the Pasi community into the academic curriculum.
Calling Uda Devi’s martyrdom “an everlasting symbol of patriotism,” Singh said that her legacy will continue to ignite the spirit of national pride. “Her story isn’t just history—it is a guiding light for future generations,” he added.
The event saw the presence of Union Minister Kamlesh Paswan, MPs Jai Prakash Rawat and Ashok Rawat, senior BJP leaders Dr Neeraj Singh and Dr Mahendra Singh, Mayor Sushma Kharakwal, BJP leaders Vijay Maurya, Rajeshwar Singh, Neeraj Bora, Yogesh Shukla, Amresh Rawat and several other dignitaries.
