FORGOTTEN SONGS OF FREEDOM

Freedom struggle from the first war of independence in 1857 to the gaining of independence in 1947 was a glorious period in Indian History on many accounts despite the misery and struggles our people faced.

- HIMANSHU DHULIYA

(Top) Bismil and Faiz, (Middle) Sardar Jafri and Iqbal. (Bottom) Subhdra Kumari Chauhan

It threw a galaxy of leadership whom we idealise till date, it generated ideas which we cherish, it made us a more progressive society in that we resolved to break caste barriers, we strove the path of emancipation of women, we made serious attempts to reduce communal tensions, we believed in the path of socialism and good for all. It was a great Nation in the making. It acted as a catalyst for Artists to create new words and songs and images. It activated cinema, theatre, Poetry and numerous artistic expressions. ‘Indian peoples’ theatre’ gave us theatre of new voice of struggle and freedom. a large number of artists came under an umbrella and creativity sprouted all over in numerous languages The ‘progressive writers’ launched themselves in 1936 and have given us an indomitable expression. A voice to the masses, It has remained an inspiration still.

These songs were written by various poets across the country as no part remained unaffected by wave of freedom. our leaders had connected to the masses and motivated them to rise to the occasion. Therefore these songs were sung by people full throated in utmost sincerity believing in each word they sang. The times were such, it was their only succour, it was their only support, it was their belief, it was their saviour, it was what all they had, some sang alone some together but sang they all. Sometimes on special occasion we remember these songs and our heart swells, yet we know that now we are free and so sing routinely, but during the freedom move-

ment these were nourishment for the broken hearts and medicine to uplift their morale.