Sagarmal Gopa: A Forgotten Hero of India's Freedom Struggle

Predictably, Gopa's activism invited severe reprisals. His father lost his job, and the family was expelled from Jaisalmer. They relocated to Nagpur, where Sagarmal continued his activities.

- TDG NETWORK

Sagarmal Gopa, a courageous freedom fighter, author, and human rights activist, remains one of the lesser-known martyrs of India's independence movement. Born in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, he defied the privileges of his birth and chose the perilous path of truth, justice, and rebellion against feudal tyranny. His legacy, marked by defiance, intellect, and ultimate sacrifice, demands wider recognition.

Gopa was born into a family closely associated with the royal family of Jaisalmer. Living under their patronage, the Gopa family enjoyed the privileges and comforts offered by the rulers. A similar comfortable life awaited Sagarmal. However, he made a conscious choice to reject these comforts, turning instead to a life of resistance against injustice. This decision, especially given his background, exemplifies extraordinary moral courage.

From an early age, Gopa was devoted to education. At just 15, he established a library to cultivate a reading culture among his peers. His sharp intellect and sense of justice drew him into the freedom movement early. At the age of 20, he actively participated in the national Non-Cooperation Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi.

His studies and activism opened his eyes to the arbitrary rule and oppressive nature of princely states like Jaisalmer, which were often more autocratic than the British colonial government. The ruling elite suppressed dissent ruthlessly and allowed no space for civil liberties. Gopa responded to this with powerful writing, daring speeches, and organized resistance.