Lucknow: On the fifth day of the Shaheed Utsav “Rang De Basanti” program, over 300 students from Shia PG College and Rajkiya Polytechnic actively participated in a quiz, poetry, and slogan competition aimed at deepening their understanding of the freedom movement and the invaluable contributions of martyrs. The event sought to instill a sense of patriotism among the youth while shedding light on the sacrifices made by lesser-known revolutionaries.
Unsung heroes of the freedom movement were given due recognition, and students were introduced to the crucial roles played by women such as Durga Bhabhi. The competition was followed by a theatrical presentation that dramatized historical events, further engaging the young audience and helping them connect emotionally with the past.
The program was organized by Dastak Manch, an initiative dedicated to spreading awareness about the freedom movement through cultural and educational activities. The participating students found the event both informative and inspiring, as they were narrated stories of unsung heroes whose contributions have often been overlooked in mainstream history. The interactive nature of the quiz ensured that students remained engaged, with prizes awarded for correct answers. Many students took extensive notes to enhance their personal reading and understanding of history.
One of the key moments of the event was the reading of Bhagat Singh’s last letter to his younger brother Kultar, which left many students deeply moved. The letter highlighted the revolutionary’s unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom and served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by freedom fighters. The event also featured a photo exhibition that showcased images of prominent revolutionaries such as Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Rajguru, Chandra Shekhar Azad, Durga Bhabhi, and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, among others.
Students expressed their appreciation for the program and shared their thoughts on what they had learned. Rashmi Nishad, a student from Shia PG College, remarked that the quiz was particularly engaging, and she found the information about women’s contributions to be enlightening. Another student, Almas, paid tribute to revolutionaries like Kartar Singh Sarabha, Bhagwati Charan Bohra, and Jatin Das, emphasizing the importance of remembering their contributions. Abhijit, a student from Rajkiya Polytechnic, noted that the sacrifices of these martyrs had gifted the nation its freedom, and it was now the responsibility of the youth to uphold their ideals. Another student, Kahkasha, highlighted the importance of reading books written by and about these freedom fighters to gain a deeper insight into their struggles.
Faculty members also shared their perspectives on the significance of the event. Rajkumar Ji, a senior faculty member at Shia PG College, emphasized that the quiz was a tribute to the martyrs, connecting the youth with their sacrifices. Neeraj Ji, a senior faculty member at Rajkiya Polytechnic, noted that such initiatives play a crucial role in not only educating students about history but also fostering unity, integrity, and patriotism among future generations.
In the evening, Mother Seva Sansthan presented a solo theatrical performance titled “Bhagat Singh and I” at Sheroes Cafe. The play, directed and performed by Mahesh Chandra Deva, depicted a student’s deep connection with Bhagat Singh’s ideologies and his eventual downfall, illustrating how revolutionary ideals can shape a person’s life. The emotionally charged performance was followed by an open discussion on the current state of theater and strategies to ensure that the revolutionary freedom movement continues to resonate with modern audiences. Participants in the discussion stressed the importance of collective efforts to revive the spirit of revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh and Sukhdev.
Looking ahead, the festival will continue tomorrow at National PG College with a poster exhibition, quiz, poetry, and other engaging activities. In the evening, an open mic session, poetry recital, and mushaira event will be held at Sheroes Cafe, featuring a special Dastangoi performance titled “Dastan Deewano Ki.” The program aims to encourage young people to express their thoughts on patriotism and history through artistic and literary mediums. Students will also be awarded prizes and certificates for their participation and achievements, reinforcing the significance of keeping the legacy of the freedom movement alive.
