Andhra Pradesh - Tirupati   

It's great: spirit of 1857 comes alive

Special Correspondent

IN FOND REMEMBRANCE: Dressed as freedom fighters and patriots, members of the Swadeshi Jagran Manch take out a procession in Tirupati on Thursday to commemorate the 150th year of the First War of Independence. — Photo: K.V. Poornachandra Kumar

TIRUPATI: Glowing tributes were paid to the patriots who participated in the First War of Independence 150 years ago which came to be known as the `Great Revolt of 1857'. A strong spirit of patriotism and nationalism pervaded the temple city as different organisations, including the frontal units of the BJP, celebrated the day in their own way.

The Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM) observed the day by taking out a procession with its cadres who donned the guise of founders of the freedom struggle such as Jhansi Lakshmi Bai, Tantia Tope, Nanasaheb Peshwa, Chhatrapati Shivaji and marched through the streets. Some of them were astride horses. SJM activists led by its State secretary, A. Krishnakishore, and district secretary, Anandakumar, said that on the lines of the `1857 sepoy mutiny' the SJM would inspire the beleaguered farmers who were condemned to indebtedness to organise themselves and assert their rights. "We will organise Rythu Chaitanya Yatralu' throughout the State," the SJM said in a note.

The ABVP kicked off its year-long celebrations with a procession through the main streets of the town. The rally was flagged off at Balaji Colony by the State ABVP president, Penchalaiah. ABVP leaders wanted the freedom movement chronicled and the life history of martyrs taught to youngsters through their syllabus to rekindle in them the spirit of nationalism.

An NRI - Srinivas -- speaking as chief guest said that NRIs did not lag behind in displaying their spirit of nationalism and promised to use the services of the National Integration Society to spread the spirit for the cause of the nation.

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