Famous Indian Political Activists

Gauri Lankesh was an Indian activist and journalist based in Bangalore, Karnataka. She served as an editor in Lankesh Patrike, a Kannada weekly founded by her father, and also managed her own publication, Gauri Lankesh Patrike. Known for her outspoken criticism of right-wing Hindu extremism, she was tragically assassinated outside her home in Rajarajeshwari Nagar. Gauri was recognized for her advocacy for women's rights, opposition to caste-based discrimination, and unwavering stance against right-wing Hindu extremism, earning her the prestigious Anna Politkovskaya Award.

Kasturba Gandhi was an Indian political activist deeply involved in the Indian independence movement. She played a significant role in various nonviolent protests and campaigns alongside her husband, Mahatma Gandhi. Kasturba dedicated herself to advocating for the rights and welfare of Indian citizens, particularly focusing on social issues such as women's rights, education, and public health. Her dedication to the cause of Indian independence and her commitment to social justice made her a respected figure in the political landscape of British India.

Aruna Asaf Ali was an Indian educator, political activist, and publisher known for her significant contributions to the Indian independence movement. She gained widespread recognition for hoisting the Indian National flag during the Quit India Movement in 1942. Following independence, she continued her political engagement and became Delhi's first Mayor. Throughout her career, Aruna Asaf Ali remained dedicated to promoting social and political causes, leaving a lasting impact on the history of India through her activism and leadership.

Aruna Roy is an Indian social activist, professor, union organiser, and former civil servant. She has made significant contributions as the president of the National Federation of Indian Women and as the founder of the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan. With a strong focus on advocating for social justice and empowerment, Roy has been actively involved in various movements and campaigns aimed at improving the lives of marginalized communities in India. Her leadership and dedication have inspired many to work towards positive social change and equality.

Naresh Kanodia was a versatile and influential figure in the Indian Gujarati film industry. He excelled as an actor, singer, musician, and later as a respected politician from Gujarat. Kanodia's career spanned several decades, during which he starred in numerous successful Gujarati films and gained immense popularity for his performances. Known for his talent and dedication, Kanodia left a lasting impact on the industry and was considered a legendary figure by many. His contributions to Gujarati cinema and music will always be remembered and cherished.

Sunderlal Bahuguna was an influential Indian environmentalist known for his leadership in the Chipko movement and the anti-Tehri Dam movement. He dedicated his life to advocating for the preservation of forests in the Himalayas and opposing large dams. Bahuguna played a pivotal role in raising awareness about environmental issues in India, inspiring others to join the cause. His legacy as one of the early environmentalists in the country continues to inspire generations to protect and conserve the natural resources for future sustainability.

Purushottam Das Tandon was a prominent figure in India's independence movement, known for his staunch opposition to the partition of the country. He played a crucial role in advocating for Hindi to be recognized as the Official Language of India. Tandon was honored with the title Rajarshi, symbolizing his status as a Royal Saint. Recognized as "UP Gandhi," he was a key leader in promoting Gandhian principles in Uttar Pradesh. His significant contributions led to him being awarded the prestigious Bharat Ratna in 1961.

Muhammad Ali Jauhar Khan was an Indian Muslim freedom activist, journalist, poet, and prominent member of the Indian National Congress. He played a significant role in the Khilafat Movement and was instrumental in the founding of Jamia Millia Islamia. Jauhar was elected as the President of the Indian National Congress in 1923 but clashed with Gandhi over the Non-cooperation movement's abrupt end. He later became a key figure in the All-India Muslim League, representing the party at important conferences in London.

Mirabehn, also known as Madeleine Slade, was a British supporter of the Indian Independence Movement who left her home in England in the 1920s to live and work with Mahatma Gandhi. She devoted her life to human development and the advancement of Gandhi's principles. Mirabehn played a significant role in promoting nonviolence, social justice, and self-reliance. She worked closely with Gandhi, supporting his initiatives and participating in various campaigns for social change and independence. Her dedication to Gandhi's teachings and her commitment to serving humanity left a lasting impact on the Indian Independence Movement.

Tara Singh was a prominent Sikh political and religious figure in India during the first half of the 20th century. He played a pivotal role in organizing the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabhandak Committee and providing leadership to the Sikh community during the partition of India. He strongly opposed the partition and later advocated for a Sikh-majority state in East Punjab. Tara Singh's contributions to Sikh politics and his efforts in safeguarding Sikh interests left a lasting impact on the community's history.

Jayi Rajaguru was a respected princely-priest serving at the court of the Khurda kingdom in Odisha. He played a significant role in the Indian independence movement by revolting against the British East India Company. Rajaguru collaborated with the Marathas to reclaim the British-controlled province but faced setbacks when his secret strategies were revealed. Despite efforts to remove him from the king's court, a British force captured Rajaguru after attacking the fort of Khurda. Ultimately, he was sentenced to death and hanged in Baghitota, Midnapore.

Chandrawati Sheoran was a distinguished figure in Indian politics and law, known for her extensive career as an Advocate, Indian politician, and activist. Throughout her professional life, she held various significant positions including Member of Parliament, Member of the Legislative Assembly six times, and the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry. Her accomplishments and contributions in the legal and political spheres have left a lasting impact, showcasing her dedication to public service and advocacy for the welfare of the people she represented.

M. J. Appaji Gowda was a prominent Janata Dal (Secular) political activist and a respected member of the Karnataka Legislative Council. Throughout his career, he dedicated himself to serving the people of Karnataka and advocating for their rights. His contributions to the political landscape of the region were widely recognized, and he was known for his commitment to social welfare and development initiatives. His untimely passing in 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, was a loss felt deeply by his colleagues, constituents, and the community at large.

Mahendra Yadav is a prominent Nepali politician affiliated with the Nepali Congress party. He has served as the Minister of Water Supply and Sanitation in the Deuba cabinet, showcasing his dedication to public service and infrastructure development. Additionally, Yadav holds the position of Deputy General Secretary within the Nepali Congress party, highlighting his leadership abilities and political influence. With a focus on governance and party administration, Mahendra Yadav plays a significant role in shaping policies and decisions within the political landscape of Nepal.

Hakim Ajmal Khan was a prominent physician and educator in Delhi, India. He played a key role in establishing the Jamia Millia Islamia university and the Tibbia College, focusing on Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. Known for his contributions to education and healthcare, Khan was a respected figure in both Muslim and Hindu communities, showcasing his ability to bridge cultural divides. He served as the first chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of medicine and education until his passing.

Jatindra Nath Das, also known as Jatin Das, was an Indian independence activist and revolutionary dedicated to the cause of liberating India from British colonial rule. He played a significant role in the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association, actively participating in activities aimed at achieving independence. Das's commitment to the cause was exemplified by his sacrifice, as he tragically passed away in Lahore Central Jail following a 63-day hunger strike. His unwavering dedication and sacrifice continue to inspire generations of freedom fighters in India.

Vasudev Balwant Phadke was an Indian independence activist and revolutionary who dedicated his life to the cause of liberating India from colonial rule. He was deeply moved by the struggles of the farming community and believed that self-governance, or Swaraj, was the only solution to their problems. Phadke organized various sub-communities within Hindu society to resist British rule and initiated armed struggles against the colonial government. He gained prominence for leading a successful takeover of Pune and conducting raids to secure funds for the independence movement.

Shaukat Ali Khan was an Indian Muslim who played a significant role in the Khilafat Movement. He was known for his active involvement in advocating for the rights of Muslims in India. As a prominent figure in the political landscape, Shaukat Ali worked closely with his brother Mohammad Ali Jouhar to promote the interests of the Muslim community. His dedication to the cause of the Khilafat Movement earned him respect and recognition among his peers and followers.

Maghfoor Ahmad Ajazi was a dedicated political activist from Bihar who played a significant role in the Indian independence movement. He was known for his unwavering commitment to fighting for the rights and freedom of the Indian people. Ajazi actively participated in various protests, demonstrations, and movements aimed at challenging British colonial rule and advocating for self-governance. His passion for social justice and his leadership skills made him a respected figure in the struggle for independence in India.

Sankaralinganar was an Indian Tamil independence activist known for his Gandhian principles. He dedicated his life to advocating for Tamil Nadu statehood, believing in the importance of regional identity and autonomy. He famously undertook a hunger strike, ultimately leading to his death, in a courageous effort to change the name of Madras State to Tamil Nadu. His actions symbolized his unwavering commitment to the cause of Tamil nationalism and his willingness to make ultimate sacrifices for the betterment of his people.

Maniram Dewan was an Assamese nobleman recognized for pioneering the establishment of tea gardens in Assam during the British colonial era. Initially a loyal ally of the British East India Company, he later became involved in a conspiracy against them during the 1857 uprising, which led to his execution by hanging. Known as "Kalita Raja" among the people of Upper Assam, Dewan held a prominent position in society and played a significant role in the development of the tea industry in the region.

Dattatraya Ekbote, also known as Datta Ekbote, was an Indian workers' rights activist, politician, and former Mayor of Pune. He was a vocal advocate for labor rights, particularly in the beedi industry in India. Ekbote held positions in various political parties, including the Samajwadi Party and the Nationalist Congress Party. His professional life was dedicated to fighting for the rights of workers and addressing issues related to labor rights and social justice in Pune and beyond.

Mukhtar Ahmed Ansari was a prominent Indian nationalist and political leader who played a crucial role in the Indian Independence Movement. He served as the president of both the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League, demonstrating his commitment to unity and cooperation across different communities. Ansari was instrumental in the establishment of Jamia Millia Islamia University, where he served as chancellor for eight years. His contributions to the field of education and his leadership in the political arena left a lasting impact on India's history.

Hemandas Kalani was a prominent revolutionary leader during the Indian Independence Movement. He played a significant role as a leader of Swaraj Sena, a student organization affiliated with the All India Students Federation (AISF). Known for his dedication to the nation's freedom struggle, Kalani was one of the youngest revolutionaries to be martyred, being executed by British colonial authorities at a very young age. His commitment to the cause and leadership qualities have left a lasting impact on India's fight for independence.

Chettur Sankaran Nair was an influential Indian lawyer and statesman known for his significant roles in the legal and political spheres. He served as the Advocate-General of Madras, puisne justice on the High Court of Madras, and as India-wide Education minister. Nair was also elected president of the Indian National Congress in 1897. He was a prominent leader of the Madras bar and authored notable works such as "Gandhi and Anarchy." A biopic titled "Shankara" based on his life is set to be released in 2024.

Tiruppur Kumaran, also known as Kodi Kaatha Kumaran, was an Indian revolutionary and freedom fighter who played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement. He founded the Desa Bandhu Youth Association and organized protests against British colonial rule. Kumaran tragically lost his life during a police assault on a protest march against the British government. His unwavering dedication to the cause of Indian nationalism was exemplified by his courageous act of holding the banned Indian nationalists' flag during the protest. Kumaran's legacy is honored with a commemorative stamp and a statue in Tirupur.

Hasrat Mohani was a prominent Indian activist, freedom fighter, and Urdu poet, known for coining the slogan "Inquilab Zindabad" in 1921. He played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement, advocating for complete independence for India alongside Swami Kumaranand. Mohani garnered support for his cause, with figures like Maghfoor Ahmad Ajazi backing his motion. His literary contributions include the famous ghazal 'Chupke chupke raat din,' which was featured in the Bollywood movie 'Nikaah' (1982) and sung by Ghulam Ali.

Abdul Bari was an Indian academic and social reformer who dedicated his professional life to bringing about social reform in Indian society. He aimed to awaken people through education and envisioned a society free from slavery, social inequality, and communal disharmony. He actively participated in the freedom movement and fought for the independence of India. Tragically, Abdul Bari was killed during his involvement in the freedom movement, leaving behind a legacy of passion and dedication to social reform and freedom.

Luís de Menezes Bragança was a notable figure in Goan history, known for his roles as a journalist, writer, politician, and anti-colonial activist. He stood out among Goan aristocrats for his strong opposition to Portuguese colonization. Throughout his career, Menezes Bragança gained recognition in the Lusosphere as "The Greatest of all Goans" and in India as "The Tilak of Goa." His professional life was marked by his dedication to advocating for Goan independence and his contributions to journalism and literature.