Jyotiram Kandpal: The mountainous region of Uttarakhand has always been a land of sacrifice, dedication, and patriotism. Known for its hardworking, honest, and resilient people, this land has produced many valiant freedom fighters. One such unsung hero was Pandit Jyotiram Kandpal, a prominent figure in India’s struggle for independence. Born in 1892 in the remote village of Pathana, located in the Chaukhutiya region of Almora district, Jyotiram devoted his life to the cause of freedom and social upliftment.
Jyotiram Kandpal
Early Life and Education
Jyotiram Kandpal, originally named Jyotiram, exhibited a keen intellect from an early age. He completed his primary education in his local village school and later pursued higher studies in Almora. After obtaining a junior high school education and teacher training, he began his career as a teacher in Syalde. However, his father’s demise at the age of 18 placed the burden of family responsibilities on his shoulders.
Association with Mahatma Gandhi
Despite his hardships, Jyotiram had an innate sense of fearlessness and a passion for fighting injustice. The early 20th century saw the rise of Mahatma Gandhi’s influence in the country, and Jyotiram was deeply inspired by his ideology. In 1926, he had the opportunity to meet Gandhi when the latter visited Almora. This meeting left a profound impact on him, leading him to resign from his teaching job and dedicate himself entirely to the freedom movement.
Following Gandhi’s guidance, Jyotiram moved to the Sabarmati Ashram, where he learned spinning and weaving and handled office correspondence. Due to his proficiency in Hindi literature, Gandhi often entrusted him with drafting letters in Hindi, a task otherwise assigned to Mahadev Desai or Pyarelal for Gujarati and English correspondence.
Role in the Dandi March
One of the most significant contributions of Jyotiram Kandpal to India’s independence movement was his participation in the historic Dandi March (Salt Satyagraha). On March 12, 1930, Mahatma Gandhi, along with his followers, commenced the Salt March from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi, breaking the oppressive salt laws imposed by the British. Accompanied by his colleague Bhairav Dutt Joshi, Jyotiram marched alongside Gandhi. Although Joshi fell ill and could not complete the journey, Jyotiram continued and played a crucial role in the protest.
His involvement in the Salt Satyagraha led to his imprisonment. According to the Gujarat government’s official list, he was the 68th person recorded in the Dandi March participants. Historian Dr. Dharampal mentioned in his book that a letter written by Jyotiram from Karadi, Gujarat, dated April 29, 1930, to the Almora Congress Committee, showcased his unwavering commitment. In the letter, he wrote:
"We will soon launch an attack on the government’s salt stock. If I return alive, I shall write again; otherwise, consider this my last letter."
Chandra Singh Garhwali: The Hero Who Defied British Orders in Peshawar
Social Reforms and Khadi Promotion
After serving his sentence, Jyotiram returned home and took up the mission of social reform and economic self-reliance. He established ‘Udyog Mandir’ (Industry Temple) in Deghat, a center dedicated to promoting khadi and self-employment. The institution also provided free medical aid to the needy. Later, he expanded this initiative by setting up another industry center in Tadi Khet and a khadi unit in Bhoolgaon with the help of social reformer Kushal Singh Kharkwal.
Jyotiram believed in self-sufficiency and worked tirelessly to create employment opportunities for local youth through khadi production. His vision not only provided livelihoods to many but also strengthened the Swadeshi Movement in the region.
Gandhian Simplicity and Dedication
Gandhi recognized Jyotiram’s contributions and offered him financial support of ₹100 per month. However, Jyotiram, true to his selfless nature, returned ₹50, stating that he could manage with the remaining amount. His simple living and high thinking reflected in his personal choices as well. He refused to enroll his children in British-run schools, instead sending them to Gurukul Kangri in Haridwar and Gurukul Jwalapur for traditional education.
Imprisonment and Sacrifices
His activism continued beyond the Salt Satyagraha. In 1932, the British authorities cracked down on the Udyog Mandir in Deghat, seizing its resources and locking its doors. Jyotiram was arrested for participating in the Civil Disobedience Movement, sentenced to one year of rigorous imprisonment and fined ₹200. As he refused to pay the fine, his sentence was extended by three additional months, which he served in Bareilly Jail.
Bhavani Singh Rawat: The Unsung Revolutionary Hero of Uttarakhand
Personal Life and Philosophy
Despite his financial struggles, Jyotiram never prioritized personal wealth. His philosophy of simple living extended to his family life. When it came to his daughter’s marriage, he emphasized values over material wealth. He actively sought a groom from a modest background, believing in reforming societal norms through love and kindness, much like Kabir and Gandhi’s principles.
Legacy and Final Years
Jyotiram was a devoted patriot and a loving son. He fulfilled his mother’s wish of visiting all the major pilgrimage sites, including Badrinath, Kedarnath, Rameshwaram, Puri, Haridwar, and Dwarka.
Unfortunately, the relentless sacrifices took a toll on his health. On January 19, 1938, at the young age of 46, India lost this fearless warrior. However, his legacy continued to inspire freedom fighters and revolutionaries in the Chaukhutiya region and beyond.
Jyotiram Kandpal’s story is one of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the nation. Though his name may not be as well-known as other leaders of India’s independence struggle, his contributions were no less significant. His participation in the Dandi March, promotion of khadi, and lifelong dedication to social welfare make him an unsung hero of Uttarakhand’s freedom movement.
Even today, his life serves as an inspiration for those who value patriotism, self-reliance, and social justice. As we celebrate India’s hard-fought independence, it is essential to remember and honor the sacrifices of heroes like Jyotiram Kandpal, whose relentless spirit helped shape the nation we live in today.
Tinchari Mai: The Woman Who Fought Against Alcohol in Uttarakhand
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Jyotiram Kandpal
1. Who was Jyotiram Kandpal?
Jyotiram Kandpal was a freedom fighter from Uttarakhand who actively participated in India’s independence movement, particularly in the Dandi March (Salt Satyagraha) led by Mahatma Gandhi.
2. Where was Jyotiram Kandpal born?
He was born in 1892 in Pathana village, Chaukhutiya region, Almora district, Uttarakhand.
3. How did Jyotiram Kandpal contribute to India’s freedom struggle?
- He resigned from his job as a teacher to join Mahatma Gandhi’s movement.
- He participated in the Dandi March (Salt Satyagraha) in 1930.
- He was imprisoned for his role in the Civil Disobedience Movement.
- He promoted khadi and self-sufficiency in rural areas.
4. What was his role in the Dandi March?
Jyotiram Kandpal marched alongside Mahatma Gandhi during the historic Salt Satyagraha in 1930. His name was recorded as the 68th participant in Gujarat’s official list of Dandi Marchers.
5. Was Jyotiram Kandpal ever arrested?
Yes, he was imprisoned multiple times for participating in the freedom movement.
- He was jailed during the Dandi March.
- In 1932, he was sentenced to one year of rigorous imprisonment and fined ₹200 for his role in the Civil Disobedience Movement.
6. How did he promote self-sufficiency and khadi?
He established ‘Udyog Mandir’ in Deghat, Almora, which became a center for:
- Khadi weaving and self-employment
- Free medical aid
- Economic empowerment of local communities
7. What was his connection with Mahatma Gandhi?
- He met Mahatma Gandhi in 1926 in Almora, which deeply influenced him.
- He stayed at Sabarmati Ashram, where he learned spinning and handled office work.
- Gandhi personally supported him with ₹100 per month, but Jyotiram accepted only ₹50, embodying Gandhian simplicity.
8. How did he support social reforms?
- He promoted education and ensured his children studied in traditional Gurukuls instead of British-run schools.
- He opposed materialistic dowry traditions and encouraged simple weddings.
- He worked to uplift local communities through employment in khadi industries.
9. When and how did Jyotiram Kandpal pass away?
Due to relentless sacrifices and hardships, he passed away on January 19, 1938, at the age of 46.
10. Why is Jyotiram Kandpal considered an unsung hero?
Despite his significant role in India’s freedom struggle, his name remains largely forgotten in mainstream history. His dedication, sacrifices, and contributions to freedom, social upliftment, and self-sufficiency make him an inspirational but lesser-known hero of India’s independence movement.
Panthya Dada: The First Martyr Against Oppression in Uttarakhand
If you liked this post related to films, then please share it on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram or | Youtube