Bhai Parmanand

About Bhai Parmanand

• Bhai Parmanand was a prominent Indian freedom fighter, nationalist thinker, educationist, and leader of the Arya Samaj. 
  • He was popularly known as ‘Devata Swarup’.
• Birth: He was born on 4 November 1876 in Multan (now in Pakistan). 
• Early age: From a young age, he was deeply influenced by patriotic ideas and the reformist teachings of the Arya Samaj, which emphasized truth, discipline, and national pride.
• Influenced by: The Arya Samaj significantly influenced his ideals and commitment to public service. 
• International Activities: In the early 20th century, he travelled to South Africa in connection with Arya Samaj activities, where he met Mahatma Gandhi. 
  • He also worked among the Girmitiya community in Guyana, where the Arya Samaj had an established presence. 
  • Role in the Ghadar Movement: He was among the founding members of the Ghadar Party and helped inspire other revolutionaries. 
  • He also encouraged Lala Har Dayal to travel to the United States.
• Imprisonment: The British authorities sentenced him to transportation to the Andaman Islands, commonly known as Kala Pani, for his involvement in the freedom movement.
• Autobiographical Account: His book, Aapbeeti: Kaale Paani Ki Kaaraavaas Kahaani, describes the hardships and sacrifices endured by freedom fighters under British rule.
• Contributions:
  • Contribution to Education: After completing his prison sentence, he devoted himself to education. He also taught Bhagat Singh, who later emerged as a prominent revolutionary.
  • Association with Hindu Mahasabha: During the later years of his life, he was associated with the Hindu Mahasabha.
  • In independent India, his contributions were recognized when he became the Governor of Himachal Pradesh. 
• Legacy: Bhai Parmanand passed away on 8 December 1947. 
  • He is remembered as a courageous patriot and intellectual who dedicated his life to the cause of freedom, social reform, and national unity.