Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 10 Sep: On the death anniversary of Jayanand Bharti, the freedom fighter and hero of the Pauri Revolution (1932), a solemn tribute and shade tree plantation programme was organised on Wednesday by the All India Freedom Fighters Samiti, Delhi, under the leadership of its Women’s Wing President, Dr Asha Lal.
The programme was organised under the Samiti’s campaign, “One Tree – In the Name of One Freedom Fighter”, through which shade trees are being planted in schools in memory of freedom fighters, keeping their sacrifice, struggle and service to the nation alive for future generations. The initiative also aims to educate students about the importance of trees and their responsibility towards environmental conservation and protection of nature.
The occasion also highlighted Jayanand Bharti’s remarkable contribution towards social equality and justice alongside his role in the freedom struggle. He fought against regressive social practices such as the Dola-Palki custom and played an important role in securing dignity, social recognition and equality for the Dalit community. His commitment to the freedom movement and social reform led to his imprisonment six times.
The programme was presided over by Brigadier KG Behl (Retd), President, Sanyukt Nagrik Sangathan. Manoj Dhyani, Shering Luding, Dr MR Saklani, Dr Dinesh Saxena, Er Madan Lal, GS Jiada (In-charge Principal), Ganesh Tamta, members of freedom fighters’ families, school teachers, students and other dignitaries were present.
Balram, nephew of Jayanand Bharti, was specially invited and shared valuable insights into his life, contribution to the freedom struggle and his significant role in social reform.
All the speakers unanimously paid heartfelt tribute to Jayanand Bharti, recalling his outstanding contribution to the Non-Cooperation Movement, the Pauri Revolution and India’s freedom struggle. They said that his life remains an enduring inspiration of patriotism, sacrifice, courage and social consciousness. His contribution to the freedom of the country, particularly to the history and awakening of Uttarakhand, is immense and invaluable, and preserving this legacy for future generations is a collective responsibility.
The speakers further stated that the tree planted in his memory will remain a living symbol of his patriotism and struggle, while also inspiring students to protect the environment and respect nature.
Dr Asha Lal said, “The true legacy of Jayanand Bharti Ji is not limited to the struggle for India’s freedom; it also encompasses his fight for equality, social justice and human dignity. The tree planted in his memory will inspire children to uphold his ideals while reminding them of their responsibility towards nature and environmental protection.”
The programme concluded with a renewed commitment to national service, social equality and environmental conservation, and to carrying forward the legacy of Jayanand Bharti among the younger generation. The organisers also expressed their sincere gratitude to the Principal and the school administration for their support and cooperation in making the programme successful.
