Chandra Shekhar Azad spent a significant part of his revolutionary activities in Banaras (now Varanasi). Banaras was a major center for revolutionary movements against British rule, and Azad was deeply involved in the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA), which later became the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA).
Chandra Shekhar Azad’s Connection to Banaras:
- Early Revolutionary Influence: Azad was deeply influenced by the nationalist movements in Banaras. He joined the Non-Cooperation Movement as a teenager, and it was in Banaras that he first got arrested by the British in 1921. When the British magistrate asked his name, he famously responded as “Azad” (meaning free), his father’s name as “Swatantrata” (meaning independence), and his residence as “Jail”—earning him the title Chandra Shekhar Azad.
- Training and Activities: Banaras was a hub for revolutionary activities, and Azad used the city as a base to plan and strategize attacks against the British. He, along with other revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev, frequently met in secret locations in Banaras to discuss their plans.
- HRA & HSRA Operations: The city was crucial for the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA), which later became the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA). Many important documents, plans, and weapons were arranged from Banaras, and Azad was instrumental in coordinating these efforts.
- Meeting Other Revolutionaries: Azad frequently visited Banaras to recruit and train young revolutionaries. He believed that armed resistance was necessary to overthrow British rule, and he inspired many students and youth in the city.
- Escaping British Surveillance: British intelligence was always after Azad, and he often changed disguises and hid in different places in Banaras. His ability to evade arrest made him a legend among revolutionaries.