Lala Lajpat Rai: A Freedom Fighter's Journey

1. Contributions to India's Freedom Movement

• Lala Lajpat Rai made significant contributions to India's independence movement and played a pivotal role in the nation's struggle for freedom.

2. Establishment of the Dayanand Anglo-Vedic School

• He helped establish the nationalistic Dayanand Anglo-Vedic (DAV) School and became a follower of Dayanand Saraswati, a prominent social reformer.

3. Involvement in the National Congress

• In 1888 and 1889, Rai represented India as a delegate at the annual sessions of the Indian National Congress.

4. Founding of Punjab National Bank

• In 1895, Lajpat Rai played a crucial role in founding the Punjab National Bank, highlighting his commitment to self-help and enterprise.

5. Hindu Orphan Relief Movement

• Rai established the Hindu Orphan Relief Movement in 1897 to prevent Christian missions from taking custody of Hindu orphans.

6. Advocating Constructive Activity

• At the National Congress in 1900, Rai emphasized the significance of constructive nation-building activities and programs promoting self-reliance.

7. Formation of Indian Home Rule League of America

• In October 1917, Lala Lajpat Rai established the Indian Home Rule League of America in New York.

8. Leadership in Non-Cooperation Movement

• Upon his return from America in 1920, Lajpat Rai presided over a special session of the Indian National Congress in Kolkata.
• He actively participated in the non-cooperation movement, which aimed to oppose the repressive Rowlatt Act.

9. "Punjab Kesri"

• Leading the non-cooperation movement in Punjab, Lala Lajpat Rai became known as the "Punjab Kesri" (The Lion of Punjab).

10. Contributions as a Writer

• Lajpat Rai was a renowned writer, and some of his notable books include "The United States of America: A Hindu’s Impressions and a Study," "History of the Arya Samaj," "Swaraj and Social Change," and "England’s Debt to India: India."

11. Tragic End

• On October 30, 1928, Lala Lajpat Rai passed away after a police lathi-charge on activists protesting the arrival of the Simon Commission. His contributions to India's freedom struggle are celebrated to this day.