New Delhi buzzed with patriotic fervor today as leaders across the political spectrum paid homage to Lala Lajpat Rai, the iconic ‘Lion of Punjab,’ on his birth anniversary. Known for his unyielding fight against British rule, Rai’s legacy continues to inspire millions.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah set the tone with a heartfelt post on X, hailing Rai’s supreme sacrifice. ‘Lala Lajpat Rai laid down his life for India’s freedom. His martyrdom united a fragmented independence movement into a blazing inferno of unity,’ Shah wrote. He emphasized how Rai’s leadership ignited armed revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh and underscored his contributions to social reform, education, and economic empowerment.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described Rai as a great freedom fighter, dedicated social worker, and staunch advocate of Swadeshi. ‘His indomitable courage, unwavering devotion, and selfless life remain an invaluable treasure of India’s freedom struggle, inspiring us to always put the nation first,’ Adityanath posted.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta joined the tributes, calling Rai an embodiment of valor, simplicity, and sacrifice. She highlighted his role in awakening national consciousness through Swadeshi, social harmony, and education, along with his visionary approach to empowering the underprivileged economically.
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini remembered Rai as a towering hero of the independence movement. ‘On the birth anniversary of Punjab Kesari Lala Lajpat Rai, symbol of unmatched courage, I bow to him a million times. His dedication to Swadeshi and Swaraj, and his defiant stand against the Simon Commission, still kindle patriotism in every Indian heart,’ Saini stated.
Lala Lajpat Rai’s life was a testament to relentless patriotism. Born in 1865, he rose as a key figure in the Lal-Bal-Pal trio, spearheading the non-cooperation movement and boycotts against British goods. His brutal lathi charge injury during the Simon Commission protest in 1928 led to his death, fueling the revolutionary fire that Bhagat Singh avenged. Today, as leaders invoke his spirit, Rai’s vision of a self-reliant India resonates amid modern nation-building efforts.