10 Unknown Facts About Matangini Hazra – India's Fearless Freedom Fighter

 

10 Unknown Facts About Matangini Hazra: The Fearless Freedom Fighter of India

Matangini Hazra was one of the bravest women in India's struggle for independence. Popularly known as “Gandhi Buri”, she became a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism in Bengal. Her fearless participation in the Indian freedom movement, particularly during the Quit India Movement of 1942, made her an unforgettable figure in Indian history.

Although many people know her name, several lesser-known facts about Matangini Hazra deserve to be remembered. Here are ten interesting facts, along with SEO-friendly information for your Blogger website.

10 lesser-known facts about Matangini Hazra

1. She entered the freedom movement in her sixties

Matangini Hazra did not become a prominent freedom fighter in her youth. She joined a Civil Disobedience procession in 1932, when she was already in her early sixties. Her story shows that the desire to serve one's country has no age limit.

2. She was popularly called Gandhi Buri

The name “Gandhi Buri” means “old lady Gandhi” in Bengali. She earned this affectionate nickname because she followed Mahatma Gandhi's methods of non-violent protest, wore khadi and participated in the freedom struggle. There is no reliable evidence that she personally met Gandhi.

3. She never received formal education

Born into a poor peasant family in Hogla village near Tamluk, Matangini Hazra had no formal schooling. Despite this disadvantage, she became an active participant in political demonstrations and the Indian independence movement.

4. She took part in the Civil Disobedience Movement

In 1932, she participated in protests against British colonial rule, including actions connected with the Salt Satyagraha. She was arrested for defying the colonial salt laws, demonstrating her willingness to face punishment for her beliefs.

5. She spent six months in prison

Matangini Hazra was sentenced to six months in Baharampur jail for protesting the chowkidari tax, a levy associated with maintaining village watchmen under colonial administration. Her imprisonment did not end her involvement in the movement.

6. She was widowed at a very young age

Historical accounts state that she was married as a child and became a widow at around eighteen, without children. She returned to her village and lived through decades that are poorly documented before joining the independence movement.

7. She continued to advance with the national flag

On 29 September 1942, during the Quit India Movement, she marched towards the police station at Tamluk with a procession. Historical accounts report that she continued forward carrying the national flag even after being shot by colonial police.

8. Her death was part of a much larger local uprising

Matangini Hazra was not the only person who died during the Tamluk procession. Historical accounts record nine other deaths there that day. Her story is therefore also a reminder of the many ordinary people who sacrificed their lives during the independence movement.

9. A statue was erected in her memory in Kolkata

A statue of Matangini Hazra was erected in Kolkata's Maidan in 1977. The memorial helped preserve her legacy and recognise the contribution of women to India's freedom struggle.

10. India Post honoured her with a commemorative stamp

In 2002, the Indian postal department issued a ₹5 commemorative postage stamp featuring Matangini Hazra. This national tribute helped introduce her story to new generations of students and history enthusiasts.

Why is Matangini Hazra remembered today?

Matangini Hazra remains an inspiring figure because she challenged the idea that only wealthy, educated or influential people could shape history. Despite personal hardships and imprisonment, she continued to participate in the struggle against British rule.

Her sacrifice during the Quit India Movement made her a lasting symbol of courage in Bengal and across India.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. Who was Matangini Hazra?

Matangini Hazra was an Indian freedom fighter from Bengal who participated in the Civil Disobedience Movement and the Quit India Movement.

2. Why was Matangini Hazra called Gandhi Buri?

She was called Gandhi Buri, meaning “old lady Gandhi,” because she followed Gandhian principles and participated in non-violent protests.

3. When did Matangini Hazra die?

She was killed on 29 September 1942, during a protest march in Tamluk, Bengal.

4. What was Matangini Hazra's role in the Quit India Movement?

She led a procession towards the Tamluk police station during the movement and was shot by colonial police while carrying the national flag.

5. What is Matangini Hazra famous for?

She is remembered for her courage, her participation in India's independence movement and her sacrifice in 1942.

Conclusion

Matangini Hazra's life teaches us that courage does not depend on age, education or social status. From her humble beginnings in rural Bengal to her final march in 1942, she demonstrated extraordinary commitment to India's freedom.

Remembering these ten lesser-known facts about Matangini Hazra helps us understand not only her bravery but also the contribution of countless ordinary Indians who helped shape the country's history.

Editorial note: Some historical sources differ on whether Matangini Hazra was born in 1869 or 1870. It is best to avoid stating her exact age at death as a universally settled fact.