Chandra Singh Garhwali, a brave soldier and a true patriot, was born on December 25, 1891, in Ranusaira, Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand. Like many other freedom fighters, his journey from a loyal British soldier to a revolutionary marked a significant chapter in India’s struggle for independence. His most notable act of defiance came in 1930 when he refused to fire upon unarmed civilians in Peshawar. This act of rebellion made him a legend in India's freedom movement.
Chandra Singh Garhwali
Early Life and Military Career
Chandra Singh Negi was born into a farming family, and though he received basic education in his village, he could not continue beyond primary school. His life took a turn when he joined the British Indian Army at a time when colonial rule was deeply entrenched in India. During his military service, he traveled across various locations, including Lansdowne, France (1915), Mesopotamia (1917), the North-West Frontier Province (1921-23), and Khyber (1929).
Despite serving the British government for 15 years, his patriotism never wavered. The brutal suppression of Indians, especially after incidents like the Rowlatt Act and the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, deeply affected him. His nationalist views grew stronger, leading him to question British rule and seek ways to contribute to India's independence.
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Awakening of Patriotism
The years between 1920 and 1930 were crucial for Chandra Singh Garhwali. The British imposed strict regulations on Indian soldiers, such as banning the wearing of Gandhi caps in Lansdowne. During this period, he came into contact with Arya Samaj and began reading nationalist literature. He followed cases like the Bolshevik conspiracy of 1925 and the Meerut conspiracy of 1928, which fueled his anti-British sentiments.
In 1929, he attended a rally in Bageshwar where Mahatma Gandhi was present. Gandhi noticed his military cap and remarked, "I am not afraid of this soldier’s cap." In response, Chandra Singh replaced it with a Gandhi cap, impressing the leader. This small yet significant event symbolized his transformation from a soldier of the British Army to a soldier of India’s independence struggle.
The Peshawar Revolt: A Historic Moment
The defining moment of Chandra Singh Garhwali’s life came on April 23, 1930, during the Peshawar uprising. The North-West Frontier Province was in turmoil as the Khudai Khidmatgar movement, led by Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan (Frontier Gandhi), gained momentum. The British, fearing unrest, deployed Hindu soldiers to control the predominantly Muslim protesters.
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On that fateful day, a massive crowd gathered in Peshawar’s Qissa Khwani Bazaar. As tensions escalated, Captain Ricket of the British Army ordered Chandra Singh and his battalion of 72 Garhwali soldiers to fire upon the unarmed protesters. However, Chandra Singh refused the order, boldly commanding his men, “Garhwalis, cease fire!”
This extraordinary act of defiance shocked the British officers. When Captain Ricket insisted on firing, Chandra Singh bravely responded, “You may shoot us if you wish, but we will not fire on innocent civilians.” His soldiers followed his command, setting an unparalleled example of discipline and humanity.
Chandra Singh Garhwali: A Name Given by Mahatma Gandhi
Chandra Singh Garhwali, originally named Chandra Singh Negi, earned the title "Garhwali" from Mahatma Gandhi as a mark of respect for his bravery and patriotism. This honor was bestowed upon him after the historic Peshawar revolt of 1930, where he led Garhwali soldiers in refusing to fire upon unarmed protestors following Gandhiji’s principles of non-violence. His courage and unwavering commitment to humanity made him a symbol of resistance against British rule. From that moment, he was no longer just a soldier but a legend, forever remembered as Chandra Singh Garhwali.
Consequences and Imprisonment
Chandra Singh Garhwali and his fellow soldiers were immediately arrested. A military trial was conducted in Abbottabad, where he was sentenced to life imprisonment along with several of his comrades. The British attempted to downplay the event, fearing it would inspire further rebellion among Indian troops.
Chandra Singh spent years in various jails, including those in Lahore, Bareilly, and Almora, where he endured harsh conditions. Despite his imprisonment, he remained steadfast in his commitment to India’s independence.
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Legacy and Impact
The bravery of Chandra Singh Garhwali had a lasting impact on the freedom movement. His defiance proved that Indian soldiers could no longer be blindly used as tools of oppression. His act of courage inspired many revolutionaries and weakened the British hold over the Indian military.
After independence, he was released and continued to work for social causes. Though his contributions are not as widely recognized as some other freedom fighters, his heroism remains a symbol of courage, discipline, and unwavering patriotism.
Chandra Singh Garhwali’s story is a testament to the power of resistance and moral strength. His refusal to fire on innocent civilians in Peshawar is one of the most remarkable acts of defiance in India’s struggle for freedom. His legacy continues to inspire generations, reminding us of the sacrifices made by unsung heroes in the fight for independence.
FAQs on Chandra Singh Garhwali
1. Who was Chandra Singh Garhwali?
Chandra Singh Garhwali was a brave Indian soldier and freedom fighter known for refusing to fire on unarmed protestors during the Peshawar Revolt of 1930.
2. What role did Chandra Singh Garhwali play in India’s freedom struggle?
He led Garhwali soldiers in disobeying British orders to shoot peaceful demonstrators, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of non-violence.
3. Where was Chandra Singh Garhwali born?
He was born in Lobha village, Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, in the year 1891.
4. What happened to him after the Peshawar incident?
For defying British orders, he was court-martialed and sentenced to life imprisonment, though he was later released after serving eleven years in jail.
5. How did Chandra Singh Garhwali contribute after independence?
After independence, he continued to work for social reforms and the rights of ex-soldiers, advocating for the welfare of his people in Uttarakhand.
6. Why is Chandra Singh Garhwali remembered today?
He is remembered as a symbol of courage and patriotism, especially in Uttarakhand, where his legacy continues to inspire generations.
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