Bhagat Singh was a revolutionary freedom fighter known for his intellect, courage, and radical approach to India’s independence movement. Here are some unique and lesser-known facts about him:
1. Avid Reader and Intellectual
Bhagat Singh was deeply influenced by socialist and Marxist ideologies. He read books by Lenin, Karl Marx, and Victor Hugo while in prison. His personal library included over 150 books on politics, philosophy, and revolution.
2. Coined the Slogan “Inquilab Zindabad”
Though often associated with him, the slogan “Inquilab Zindabad” (Long Live the Revolution) was originally coined by Maulana Hasrat Mohani. However, Bhagat Singh and his associates popularized it as a war cry for India’s independence.
3. Master of Disguise
To evade British surveillance after the 1928 killing of J.P. Saunders, Bhagat Singh shaved his beard and cut his hair—breaking Sikh religious traditions—to disguise himself. He escaped from Lahore dressed as a British gentleman.
4. Wrote His Own Jail Diary
Bhagat Singh maintained a diary in jail, where he noted revolutionary ideas, quotes from philosophers like Rousseau and Marx, and his thoughts on British rule.
5. Hunger Strike for Prisoners’ Rights
While in jail, he led a historic 116-day hunger strike demanding better treatment for Indian political prisoners. His resilience gained massive public support across India.
6. Desired a Trial by Gunfire
In his last days, Bhagat Singh wished to be executed by a firing squad instead of being hanged, considering himself a warrior. However, the British rejected his request.
7. Wrote “Why I Am an Atheist”
Bhagat Singh wrote a powerful essay, Why I Am an Atheist, while in prison, explaining his rejection of religion and his belief in rationalism and humanism.
8. Was Only 23 at the Time of Execution
On March 23, 1931, Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev were executed in Lahore Jail. The British authorities secretly hanged them ahead of schedule to avoid public protests.