Gujdu Movement: Gujdu a prominent rural region of southern Garhwal, became a significant center for Congress activities and the organization of satyagrahis during the Indian freedom struggle. This region symbolized organized resistance against British rule and was famously known as the 'Bardoli of Garhwal.'
Background of the Gujdu Movement
The spark of the freedom struggle ignited in Gujdu when Ram Prasad Nautiyal resigned from the army and dedicated himself to organizing the local people. He worked towards alleviating the difficulties faced by the population, making them economically self-reliant, and raising awareness about the importance of political freedom.
The 1942 Quit India Movement and Gujdu
The Quit India Movement of 1942 marked a decisive phase in the national struggle for independence. The people of Gujdu actively participated in this movement, transforming the region into a Congress stronghold. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s 'Do or Die' call, the local population wholeheartedly embraced the movement and spread its message to surrounding areas.
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Key Freedom Fighters and Their Roles
Several prominent revolutionaries played a crucial role in the Gujdu Movement, including:
- Ram Prasad Nautiyal: A former army officer who resigned to organize the local people and lead the movement.
- Sheesh Ram Pokhriyal: A key figure in mobilizing the masses and engaging in revolutionary activities against British rule.
- Than Singh Rawat: He contributed to expanding the movement and leading satyagrahis.
British Repression
The British government took harsh measures to suppress this movement. With the help of police and landlords, they attempted to dismantle the organized resistance of Congress leaders. The police conducted house-to-house raids to arrest the revolutionaries, but the freedom fighters went underground. The local population sheltered and protected them, openly resisting British policies.
Guerrilla Tactics and Escalation of the Movement
Despite British repression, the revolutionaries adopted guerrilla strategies. They planned attacks to destroy government records and weaken British administration. During this time, Salt region became a major hub for revolutionaries. To suppress the movement, British officials launched operations in Idiyakot village, committing atrocities against the rural population. However, the villagers refused to betray the underground fighters.
Seeking Refuge in Delhi and Leader Arrests
Due to intense British crackdowns, many prominent revolutionaries fled Gujdu and sought refuge in Delhi at the residence of Bhairav Dutt Dhulia in Karol Bagh. From there, they maintained connections with the Garhwali diaspora and other organizations to continue their struggle.
On November 8, 1942, during Diwali celebrations, British police raided Bhairav Dutt Dhulia’s residence and arrested key revolutionaries like Than Singh, Geetaram Pokhriyal, Double Singh, and Chhavan Singh. They were all brought to Lansdowne, where trials were conducted against them.
Legacy and Conclusion
The Gujdu Movement gave new momentum to the freedom struggle in southern Garhwal. The people involved in this struggle contributed not only at the regional level but also on a national scale. This movement demonstrated how rural India played a crucial role in India’s fight for independence.
Even today, the Gujdu Movement remains an inspiring chapter in the history of Garhwal and Uttarakhand. It showcases the spirit of resistance and proves that when people unite, they can challenge any oppressive regime.
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FAQs About the Gujdu Movement
1. What was the Gujdu Movement?
The Gujdu Movement was a significant freedom struggle in southern Garhwal during British rule. It played a crucial role in the 1942 Quit India Movement, where local revolutionaries fought against colonial oppression.
2. Why is Gujdu called the 'Bardoli of Garhwal'?
Gujdu is referred to as the 'Bardoli of Garhwal' because it became a stronghold of the freedom struggle, similar to how Bardoli in Gujarat was a center of resistance under Sardar Patel.
3. Who were the key leaders of the Gujdu Movement?
Some prominent leaders of the movement included Ram Prasad Nautiyal, Sheesh Ram Pokhriyal, and Than Singh Rawat. They played a crucial role in mobilizing the masses against British rule.
4. What role did Gujdu play in the Quit India Movement?
During the 1942 Quit India Movement, Gujdu became a hub for Congress activities. Freedom fighters from this region spread Gandhi’s ‘Do or Die’ message and actively resisted British policies.
5. How did the British respond to the Gujdu Movement?
The British attempted to suppress the movement through police raids, arrests, and violent crackdowns. They even carried out brutal attacks in villages like Idiyakot to break the resistance.
6. What happened to the leaders of the Gujdu Movement?
Due to British crackdowns, many leaders fled to Delhi and took refuge in Karol Bagh at Bhairav Dutt Dhulia’s residence. However, they were arrested on November 8, 1942, and taken to Lansdowne for trial.
7. How did the Gujdu Movement impact the Indian freedom struggle?
The Gujdu Movement strengthened the freedom struggle in Uttarakhand and demonstrated the role of rural India in resisting colonial rule. It inspired many people to fight for India’s independence.
8. What is the legacy of the Gujdu Movement today?
Even today, the Gujdu Movement is remembered as a symbol of resistance and sacrifice. It highlights the contribution of Garhwal’s people to India’s independence.
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