A homage to two great leaders who gave their lives for the Nation

Laimayum Bashanta Sharma *

A homage to two great leaders who gave their lives for the Nation :: Pix - TSE

On February 11th, two great sons of Bharat were taken away from us, and while the location and time may have differed, they were taken too soon by evil forces opposed to their ideology. They both belonged to the Rashtriya Swayam-sevak Sangh (RSS) and played a big role in shaping the political ideology of the BJP of the present.

Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya, the president of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, which subsequently changed its name to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), was discovered dead inexplicably at the Mughalsarai railway station in Uttar Pradesh on February 11, 1968.

Similarly, two radicalized assassins arrived at Swargiya Eigya Pabung Madhumangol Sharma's home at 7.30 am on February 11, 1995, to discuss some local issues. They fired 12 close-range shots to end the life of this great man. The Integral Humanism book, which he always kept in his shirt pockets, and a pocket-sized copy of the Bhagavad Gita were both punctured by a bullet.

He was assassinated after being repeatedly threatened by radicalized secessionist organizations for his unafraid efforts to prevent extortion, the murder of innocent people, and his outspoken opposition to their separatist goals.

On February 15, 1993, octogenarian Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader LK Advani, who was also the National BJP President at the time, paid a visit to the deceased leader's home and declared him to be the real Shaheed, bestowing the title "SHAHEED" in recognition of his sacrifice for his homeland. I would have preferred the word "Veer," however that Arabic name, which means "a male martyr," was chosen.

He was the first person in Manipur to complete a Bachelor of Engineering in Mining and Geology. He served as a resource person at numerous State-level conventions and was affiliated to a variety of orga- nizations and institutions, including Gita Mandal, Kalyan Ashram, Vidya Bharti, and Vivekananda Kendra.

His in-depth examination of the philo- sophical implications of the Shrimad Bhagavat Gita won him the hearts of many people of all generations. He devoted his life to serving the people of Manipur until the end, as a true Swayam Sevak. He resigned from his position as Additional Director, Industries Depart- ment, Government of Manipur, to fully support the BJP and RSS.

Along with his extensive work, he used his excellent oratory skills to spread the message of Swami Vivekananda among Manipur's youth, local clubs, etc. Shahid Ma- dhumangol Sharma and Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay, despite operating in different contexts and regions of India, have several similarities in their ideologies, contributions, and challenges. Here are some key similarities between the two figures

1. Cultural nationalism

Cultural identity promotion was emphasized by both Madhumangol Sharma and Deen Dayal Upadhyay as an important aspect of Nation-building. They believed that a strong sense of cultural heritage was necessary for the Nation's unity and identity.

Hindutva Ideology: Upadhyay articulated Integral Humanism, which included elements of Hin-dutva, whereas Sharma ac- tively promoted Hindutva in Manipur. Both aimed to uplift and unite the Hindu community, promoting its rights and cultural significance.

2. Engagement at the grassroots level

Mobilization of the Community : Both leaders were actively engaged in grassroots initiatives. By promoting involvement in political and cultural endeavors that complemented their beliefs, they sought to organize their respective communities.

Emphasis on the Marginalized : They were both dedicated to improving the lot of society's underprivileged groups. Sharma's attempts to advance the rights of the Hindu community in Manipur and Upa- dhyay's emphasis on the "last man" both demonstrate a similar concern for social justice.

3. Political Activism

Political Involvement : Both individuals were involved in politics and worked to change the political climate in their respective areas. Sharma participated in campaigns to advance Hindutva and cultural Nationalism in Manipur, while Upadhyay was a prominent member of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh.

Advocacy for Rights: Despite political obstacles, they both fought for their communities' rights. Sharma concentrated on protecting the political and cultural rights of the Hindu community in Manipur, while Upadhyay's work sought to guarantee Hindus' political representation.

Philosophical Under-pinings

Integral Humanism and Cultural Unity: Sharma's focus on cultural unity and identity is consistent with Upadhyay's Integral Humanism philosophy, which aimed to combine personal ambitions with societal objectives. True progress, according to both leaders, could only be made in a society that was cohesive and deeply rooted in culture.

5. Martyrdom and Legacy

Sacrifice for Ideals : Because of their dedication to their beliefs, both leaders had to overcome many obstacles and ultimately pay a price. The risks they took in standing up for their convictions are highlighted by Upadhyay's unexplained death and Sharma's murder.

Inspiration for Future Generations : Activists and leaders who support social justice and cultural Nationalism in India are still motivated by their legacy. They are both regarded as martyrs who gave their lives in defense of their communities.

Despite their disparate backgrounds, Shahid Madhumangol Shar-ma and Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay have similar views on political activism, grassroots involvement, and cultural nationalism.

Their dedication to strengthening underprivileged groups and fostering a unified cultural identity has had a long-lasting effect on India's political and cultural scene. Their contributions still have an impact on people who support comparable causes.