Our Correspondent
JAGDALPUR,
CHIEF Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Monday paid rich tributes to freedom fighter Gaindsingh on his martyrdom day at a solemn event held at the Chief Minister's official residence.
The Chief Minister offered floral tributes to Gaindsingh’s portrait, acknowledging his pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle and his relentless fight against British exploitation.
Speaking on the occasion, Sai highlighted the bravery of Gaindsingh, who, as the Zamindar of Paralkot estate, spearheaded a rebellion against the oppressive policies of British rulers. “He sounded the bugle of freedom in Bastar, leading his people against colonial rule and opposing British policies with unmatched courage,” said the Chief Minister.
Sai called upon citizens to draw inspiration from the sacrifice of Gendsingh. “Let us pledge to walk on the path shown by this great leader and dedicate ourselves to the upliftment of society and the nation,” he added.
Known as a champion of tribal rights, Gaindsingh fought relentlessly for the dignity and welfare of Bastar's tribal communities. His supreme sacrifice remains a source of inspiration, reminding all of the spirit of patriotism and selfless service.
Akhil Bharatiya Halba Halbi Adivasi Samaj, Chhattisgarh Kendriya Mahasabha President Devendra Mahla, IR Dehari and others were also present.
Concluding the event, the Chief Minister called upon people to remember and honour the sacrifices of freedom fighters like Gendsingh, whose courage and determination continue to guide the state and the nation.
Gaind Singh, the Zamindar of Paralkot and the first freedom fighter of Chhattisgarh, was hanged 200 years ago on January 20, 1825, by the British for leading the tribal rebellion against exploitation and oppression. A revered figure in the history of Chhattisgarh, Gaind Singh spearheaded the fight for water, forest, and land rights, earning the top spot among freedom fighters from the state.
His leadership inspired the Abujhmadiya tribals to rise against the British and Marathas, with the goal of establishing a self-reliant and exploitation-free Abujhmad.
The vast Paralkot forest, where Gaind Singh led the uprising, was part of the Bastar princely state.
According to British officer D Brett, the Paralkot Zamindar was referred to as Bhumiya Raja. Historical remnants of his Narayan Patna Fort still stand in the Paralkot forest.
The rebellion began on December 24 when Gaind Singh mobilized tribals in Paralkot. Rebels targeted Maratha and British supply lines, ambushed officials, and resisted taxes imposed by the Marathas. Ghotuls (community houses) served as strategic hubs for planning their resistance. Their mission was clear: to free Bastar from foreign rule and exploitation.
However, the rebellion came to a tragic end on January 20, 1825, when Gaind Singh was captured and hanged in front of his palace by Captain Paev, acting on the orders of British officer Anue.
Despite his sacrifice, his legacy continues to inspire generations in Bastar and beyond.
Gaind Singh’s efforts were pivotal in the Indian freedom struggle, not just in Bastar but across Chhattisgarh. The Paralkot Zamindari, which was integral to his fight, also became a significant historical site. In the 1960s, the region played a key role in resettling Bangladeshi refugees under the Dandakaranya Project.
The contribution of Gaind Singh was brought to light by Kanker-based historian Professor JR Valyani, who ensured his name was inscribed at the top of the list of freedom fighters at Ghadi Chowk in Raipur.
The people of Bastar continue to cherish the memory of Gaind Singh, a pioneer of the region's struggle for independence and the rights of water, forest, and land.