Revolutionary Vasudev Chapekar (4 July 1869- 8 May 1899)

Revolutionary Vasudev Chapekar (4 July 1869- 8 May 1899)

Introduction

In the history of the Indian freedom struggle, the names of many such revolutionaries are written in golden letters, who sacrificed their lives for the nation. One such great revolutionary was Vasudev Balwant Chapekar, who is counted among the first to ignite the spark of armed revolution in India. The Chapekar brothers set such an example of patriotism with their duty, courage and sacrifice, which is an inspiration for the youth even today.

Early life

Birth: Vasudev Chapekar was born on 4 July 1869 in a Brahmin family in Pune (Maharashtra).

The religious nature and education of his father Balwant Chapekar also imbued Vasudev with Vedic knowledge, Ramayana, Mahabharata and the spirit of patriotism.

 Vasudev had two younger brothers – Balkrishna Chapekar and Damodar Chapekar. All three brothers had extraordinary dedication to revolution and independence.

Political background and oppression of British rule

By the end of the 19th century, the oppression and exploitation of British rule in India was at its peak. The British had enslaved the Indian people politically, socially and economically. The oppression and inhuman behavior of the British officials, especially during the plague epidemic in Pune, filled the minds of the people with resentment.

Plague epidemic and British atrocities

In 1896-97, the plague epidemic spread in Pune.

In the name of prevention of the epidemic, the British government established the Plague Commission, whose chairman was Rand (Walter Charles Rand).

Rand and his team forcibly entered the houses of Indians, misbehaved with women, desecrated religious symbols, and openly violated civil rights.

Vasudev Chapekar could not tolerate this atrocity.  They decided that this injustice would be avenged.

Rand's Murder - Beginning of Armed Revolution in India

On 22 June 1897, Queen Victoria's birth anniversary was being celebrated in Pune.

On this day, Vasudev and his brother Balkrishna Chapekar attacked Rand and his colleague Lieutenant Ayerst.

They shot Rand dead, while Ayerst was injured.

This incident was the first murder of a British officer in the history of independent India which was done under a well-planned political motive.

Arrest and Sacrifice

The Chapekar brothers were arrested.

Vasudev clearly said in the court that he had committed the murder in the spirit of revenge for the insult and atrocities of the country and he had no remorse for his act.

Vasudev Chapekar was hanged on 8 May 1899.

His brothers Balkrishna and Damodar were also hanged later respectively.

 Influence and inspiration

The sacrifice of the Chapekar brothers was the beginning of a new era in the history of India's freedom struggle.

They gave birth to the concept of violent revolution and gave the message that freedom is not achieved only by prayers, but by struggle and sacrifice.

They influenced revolutionaries like Veer Savarkar, Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Chandrashekhar Azad.

Memory and respect

Memorials have been built in the memory of the Chapekar brothers at many places in Maharashtra including Pune.

Dramas, novels and films based on their biography have also been made.

Even in independent India, tribute is paid to their revolutionary consciousness.

Conclusion

Vasudev Chapekar is one of those revolutionaries of India who sacrificed their lives without any desire for personal gain, only for the self-respect of the country. He will always be remembered as the first revolutionary warrior of the Indian freedom struggle. His sacrifice even today teaches us that it is the duty of every citizen to retaliate against injustice.