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A rally to remember freedom fighters

Madhur Tankha

Soil from areas significant to 1857 revolution to be brought here

NEW DELHI: The First War of Independence was a spontaneous expression of the accumulated grievances of the people. More than triggering a yearning for social and economic reforms, it united Muslims and Hindus, peasants and rulers, soldier and common man as they all came together to stand up and fight against the British rule.

Now the Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) is all set to launch a national youth rally from Meerut to Delhi on May 7. Passing through Modinagar, Muradnagar and Ghaziabad, the rally will end at the historic Red Fort in Delhi. The participating teams will carry a pot of soil from all districts significant to the 1857 revolution. Later the soil will be immersed into a big urn to signify emotional oneness for national integration.

According to Sangathan Director-General Shakeel Ahmad Khan, the history of India's freedom struggle has always been a great source of inspiration for the younger generation.

Describing the 1857 uprising in India as the greatest armed challenge to colonial imperialism during the 19th Century, Dr. Khan says it produced many heroes and heroines of epic fame, besides providing hope and inspiration for future generations.

"It has gained recognition as India's first war of independence. It is important that young people of this country know its glorious tradition and history, so that they can get infused with the feeling of patriotism and aspire for a more strong and prosperous India."

The Sajhi Shahadat-Sajhi Virasat campaign of NYKS aims to identify the links between the challenges of 1857 with those of today. It plans a commemoration to not only strengthen communal harmony, democracy and development at the grassroots level but also create awareness among the young brigade about the trials and tribulations of freedom fighters.

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