April 8th is not just a date; it resonates deeply in the history of the Indian freedom struggle, annually reminding students of the sacrifices made for India's independence. Events associated with this day continue to hold a prominent place in the static GK sections of UPSC, SSC, Railway, Banking, and other competitive examinations. Let's explore why April 8th holds such historical significance.
Mangal Pandey's Hanging: The Spark of the Freedom Struggle
In 1857, when the first spark of the Indian freedom struggle ignited, sepoy Mangal Pandey became its face. He was a member of the 34th Bengal Native Infantry of the British East India Company. The use of cow and pig fat in the cartridges of the Enfield rifle introduced by the British inflamed religious sentiments. In protest, Mangal Pandey attacked British officers at the Barrackpore cantonment on March 29, 1857.
Although his execution was scheduled for April 18th, the British government, fearing a larger rebellion in his support, preponed the hanging to April 8th, 1857. This spark, emanating from the Barrackpore gallows, quickly spread like wildfire across India.
Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt's Bomb Revolution
Interestingly, on the same date in 1929, Bhagat Singh and Batukeshwar Dutt threw bombs in the Central Assembly Hall in Delhi, registering a peaceful protest against British rule. Their aim was not to cause harm but to deliver a revolutionary message – a loud proclamation to the world – to awaken the British to the demands of Indian independence.
April 8th each year records several historical events, not only etched in history books but also relevant to contemporary events and examinations.
Other Significant Events Associated with This Date
1894: Demise of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, the author of "Vande Mataram."
1950: The Liaquat-Nehru Pact between India and Pakistan, aimed at protecting minorities in both countries.
1973: Passing of Pablo Picasso, a renowned 20th-century painter.
2013: Death of Margaret Thatcher, Britain's first female Prime Minister.
2020: COVID-19 cases in India surpassed 5,700; PM Modi termed it a "social emergency."
2023: President Droupadi Murmu flew a Sukhoi-30MKI from Tezpur airbase, becoming the first Indian president to do so.
2024: Maldives' suspended minister, Mariyam Shiuna, insulted the Indian flag, followed by a public apology – an incident that strained India-Maldives relations.
