Who is Known as Shaheed-e-Azam?

Have you ever wondered who is known as Shaheed-e-Azam? When we read about India’s fight for freedom, we learn about many brave men and women. 

But, among many freedom fighters, one of the most courageous young Indian revolutionaries was Shaheed Bhagat Singh.

Let’s explore why he is known as Shaheed-e-Azam or a Great Martyr, his key milestones in indian revolutionary movement, and about the Shaheed Diwas (Martyrs' Day) which occurs on 23 March.

What Does "Shaheed-e-Azam" Mean?

First of all, we must know who is known as Shaheed-e-Azam. The famous young Indian Freedom Fighter, Bhagat Singh were known.

But why did he get this nickname? To understand this, we first need to know what the Shaheed-e-Azam means.

• Shaheed: This is an Urdu and Arabic word that means "Martyr." A martyr is someone who happily gives up their life for a good cause, like saving their country.

• Azam: This word means "Great" or "Supreme" or “Most Magnificent”

So, when you put them together, Shaheed-e-Azam means the "Great Martyr", the legend Shaheed Bhagat Singh is known by this nickname.

Quick Facts About Bhagat Singh

Here is a quick look at some important details every student should know about him:

Why is Bhagat Singh Called the “Shaheed-e-Azam” or Great Martyr?

Bhagat Singh was not just brave; he was also very smart. Here are the main reasons why people lovingly gave him this title:

1. Bravery at a Young Age

Bhagat Singh became involved in the freedom fight at a very tender age of a teenager. While most kids his age were busy playing, he was thinking of ways to free India from British rule. He was never afraid of the strong British army and police.

2. The Famous Slogan

He made the slogan "Inquilab Zindabad" very famous. It means "Long Live the Revolution." Whenever freedom fighters shouted this phrase, it gave them a lot of energy and courage.

3. A Great Ideology of a Thinker: Socialism and Atheism

Bhagat Singh loved reading books. He believed that to fight bad rulers, you need good ideas, not just weapons. 

He read books about history, freedom, and heroes from all around the world. While he was in jail, he used to read the books of Marx, Lenin, and Engels.

In his famous writing works, he used “Why I Am an Atheist”, and he is also instrumental in renaming the Hindustan Republican Association to the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA).

4. His Ultimate Sacrifice

The biggest reason he is called Shaheed-e-Azam is because of his ultimate sacrifice. Along with his friends Rajguru and Sukhdev, Bhagat Singh was sentenced to death by the British rulers. He was only 23 years old when he was hanged on March 23, 1931. Even as he walked to his death, he had a smile on his face and was singing songs about his love for India.

Key Revolutionary Milestones of Bhagat Singh

Bhagat Singh’s life was defined by bold, strategic actions designed to "make the deaf hear."

Death of Bhagat Singh: The Trial and Martyrdom of Bhagat Singh

Bhagat Singh and his two other young freedom fighter associate, Sukhdev Thapar and Shivaram Rajguru, used their court trials as a megaphone for their revolutionary message. They refused to plead for mercy, choosing instead to walk for executing the sentence of death by hanging with their heads held high.

On March 23, 1931, in the evening, the youngest freedom fighter of India, including Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev Thapar and Shivaram Rajguru, was executed in Lahore Central Jail. 

Now, this day is celebrated as Shaheed Diwas (Martyrs' Day) all over India. Along with this, January 30 is also considered Martyrs' Day to recall the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi on January 30, 1948

Conclusion

Today, whenever the question, "Who is known as Shaheed-e-Azam?" is asked, every Indian proudly know the answer.

Bhagat Singh's courage and devotion to his nation make him a true superhero. He had us believe that it didn't matter how young you are, you can still do great things for your country!