On August 24, 1908, in the humble town of Khed in Maharashtra, a future hero of India's struggle for independence was born – Shivaram Hari Rajguru. Today marks the 115th anniversary of his birth, a day to remember and honor the life and sacrifices of this revolutionary freedom fighter who dedicated his life to the cause of freeing India from the clutches of British colonial rule.

Rajguru's early life was marked by challenges, as he lost his father at the tender age of six. Despite this adversity, he showed remarkable determination and resilience. He received his primary education in Khed and later attended the New English High School in Poona. At an unusually young age, he became associated with the Seva Dal, showcasing his early inclination towards serving the nation.

However, it was his involvement with the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) that solidified his place in history. The HSRA, led by fiery revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh, sought to free India through direct action and revolutionary violence against the British colonial regime. Rajguru's commitment to this cause was unwavering, and he joined hands with like-minded individuals to challenge the oppressive imperial rule.

One of the most significant moments in Rajguru's revolutionary journey came on December 17, 1928. Alongside fellow freedom fighters Bhagat Singh and Sukhdev Thapar, Rajguru carried out a daring act that shook the British authorities – they assassinated John P Saunders, a British police officer, in Lahore. This act of defiance was a testament to their unwavering determination and their willingness to lay down their lives for the cause of India's freedom.

Rajguru's actions and sacrifices continue to inspire generations of Indians to this day. His commitment to the cause of independence, his fearlessness in the face of adversity, and his readiness to make the ultimate sacrifice have left an indelible mark on the history of India's struggle for freedom. As we commemorate his 115th birth anniversary, it is crucial to reflect on the values he upheld and the sacrifices he made for a free and sovereign India.

In honor of Shivaram Hari Rajguru, let us remember and celebrate his life with some of his most profound quotes:

"I do not want fame, I do not want any position; I want to see my country independent and free. That is my goal."

"Our lives are dedicated to the cause of freedom. We are ready to face death for our noble purpose."

"It is not enough to be a well-wisher of the country; one must be a doer, a fighter for its cause."

"The chains of oppression will break only when the spirit of resistance burns brighter than the fear of death."

"Let the sacrifices of today illuminate the path to a brighter tomorrow, where our land is free and our people stand united."

"The true wealth of a nation is not in its treasures, but in the hearts of its people who strive for liberty."

"The call of the nation is supreme; it must be answered, even if it requires the sacrifice of one's own life."

"In the pursuit of justice and freedom, the path may be treacherous, but our resolve must remain unshaken."

"The courage to fight for what is right springs from the conviction that our cause is just and our hearts are pure."

"As long as there are patriots who refuse to bow, the flame of resistance will continue to burn, lighting up the path to freedom."

As we remember Shivaram Hari Rajguru on his 115th birth anniversary, let us draw inspiration from his words and deeds. Let his legacy remind us that the journey towards freedom and justice requires unwavering dedication, sacrifice, and the unbreakable spirit of those who are willing to fight for a better tomorrow.

Counting the Cost: How British Rule Drained India's Wealth

This Day in History: British Parl Declares Gradual Responsible Govt for India