Celebrating 78th Independence Day: 10 slogans that inspired India’s freedom movement

Marking the historic day in 1947, the first Prime Minister of Independent India, Jawaharlal Nehru, delivered a speech on the eve of Independence—Tryst with Destiny. In this momentous address, he proclaimed, “At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom,” capturing the struggle and happiness of the newly independent India.

As we mark India’s Independence Day, it’s important to recognise that the day was more than just a political struggle; it was a momentous movement that brought together diverse voices from across the subcontinent.

The speeches delivered by key leaders during the struggle for independence were among the most impactful elements of the freedom struggle, inspiring millions and galvanising the masses towards the common goal of independence.

10 historic freedom quotes that inspired the Indian Independence Movement:

Here are some influential and historic slogans/quotes drawn from the powerful speeches of freedom fighters during India’s struggle for independence, which only inspired the freedom movement but continue to resonate and inspire all of us today.

1. Bal Gangadhar Tilak: Father of Indian Unrest (1906)

Bal Gangadhar Tilak (Credit: Canva/Cherry Gupta_Indian Express)

In 1906, Bal Gangadhar Tilak made a resounding declaration: “Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it,” encapsulating the essence of the Indian independence movement, asserting the fundamental right of Indians to self-rule.

Tilak, often referred to as the “Father of Indian Unrest,” was a prominent figure in the Indian National Congress and played a crucial role in mobilising public sentiment against British colonialism, with his advocacy for swaraj (self-governance) inspiring a generation of freedom fighters and marking a significant shift in the Indian struggle for independence.

2. Sarojini Naidu: Nightingale of India (1915)

Sarojini Naidu (Credit: Canva/Cherry Gupta_Indian Express)

In 1915, Sarojini Naidu, known as the Nightingale of India, delivered stirring speeches that resonated deeply with the Indian populace, especially her passionate quote stating,“A country’s greatness lies in its undying ideal of love and sacrifice that inspire the mothers of the race!”  which highlighted the ideals of compassion and selflessness for contributing to the strength and unity of the nation

Naidu’s eloquence and commitment to the cause made her a prominent female leader within the Indian National Congress, thereby mobilising women in the freedom struggle, where she advocated for both national independence and women’s rights.

Naidu’s poetry and oratory inspired her contemporaries and laid the foundation for future generations of women leaders in India’s independence movement.

3. Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya: Education as Empowerment (1916)

Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya (Credit: Canva/Cherry Gupta_Indian Express)

In 1916, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya emphasised the vital role of education in nation-building. He asserted, “Knowledge with humility is worthless,” as he championed the idea that knowledge must be accompanied by humility to be truly valuable and impactful in shaping individuals and society. As the founder of Banaras Hindu University, Malaviya’s contributions to educational reform were instrumental in empowering the Indian populace.

Believing that education was the key to social and political awakening, fostering a sense of national identity and purpose, Malaviya’s advocacy for educational reforms helped cultivate a generation of educated leaders who would later play significant roles in the independence movement.

4. Annie Besant: A British ally for India’s freedom (1917)

Annie Besant (Credit: Canva/Cherry Gupta_Indian Express)

Annie Besant, a British supporter of Indian independence, made significant contributions to the movement in 1917 by declaring, “Freedom is the birthright of every nation.” Her advocacy for self-rule and her efforts to garner international support for the Indian cause were crucial in raising awareness about the injustices of colonial rule. Besant’s work helped bridge the gap between Indian nationalists and the international community, highlighting the need for self-determination.

5. Chandra Shekhar Azad: Defiance in the face of Oppression (1928)

Chandra Shekhar Azad (Credit: Canva/ Cherry Gupta_Indian Express)

Joining the Non-Cooperation Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi in 1921, Chandra Shekhar Azad was arrested and sentenced to 15 lashes by the British. When brought before the magistrate, he defiantly declared his name as “Azad,” meaning “The Free.”

To avoid getting captured by the British police on February 27, 1931, Azad shot himself by powerfully declaring, “We will face the bullets of the enemy; we are free and will remain free” (Dushman ki goliyon ka hum samna karenge, Azad hee rahein hain, Azad hee rahenge), thereby exemplifying his fearless attitude towards colonial oppression and inspiring countless Indians with his commitment to fight against British rule by emphasising that freedom was worth any sacrifice.

6. Bhagat Singh: The Revolutionary Spirit (1928)

Bhagat Singh (Credit: Canva/Cherry Gupta_Indian Express)

By the late 1920s, Bhagat Singh emerged as a prominent revolutionary figure, rallying support with his cry of Inquilab Zindabad (Long Live the Revolution). One of his most powerful assertion, “They may kill me, but they cannot kill my ideas. They can crush my body, but they will not be able to crush my spirit,” highlighted his unwavering commitment to his revolutionary ideals and the enduring power of thought and belief.

Singh’s radical approach and willingness to embrace violence as a means to achieve independence inspired a new generation of freedom fighters committed to immediate action against British rule.

7. Lala Lajpat Rai: The Lion of Punjab (1928)

Lala Lajpat Rai (Credit: Canva/Cherry Gupta_Indian Express)

Lala Lajpat Rai, known as the “lion of Punjab,” demonstrated unwavering resolve in the face of colonial oppression. “Freedom is not given; it is taken. Fight for your rights,” Lajpat Rai asserted the active role individuals must play in securing their independence by reflecting his belief that true freedom requires active engagement and struggle.

Following a brutal police assault in 1928, Rai’s defiance became a symbol of resistance against British tyranny, and his leadership and sacrifice galvanised public sentiment, reinforcing the resolve of Indians to fight for their rights.

8. Subhash Chandra Bose: A Call for Armed Struggle (1944)

Subhash Chandra Bose (Credit: Canva/Cherry Gupta_Indian Express)

In 1944, Subhas Chandra Bose delivered a powerful speech that underscored the urgent need for armed resistance against British colonial rule. with his iconic declaration, “Give me blood, and I shall give you freedom” (tum mujhe khoon do, main tumhe azaadi dunga), resonated deeply with those who advocated for a militant approach to independence.

Bose’s leadership of the Indian National Army marked a significant turning point in the freedom struggle, appealing to individuals disillusioned with non-violent resistance. His call to action inspired many to join the fight for liberation, emphasising that true freedom could only be achieved through sacrifice and determination.

9. Maulana Abul Kalam Azad: Unity in Diversity (1940)

Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (Credit: Canva/Cherry Gupta_Indian Express)

Maulana Abdul Kalam Azad, in his presidential address at the Ramgarh session of the Indian National Congress in 1940, underscored the urgency of the freedom movement.

“I am part of the indivisible unity that is Indian nationality,” demonstrated his vision of a unified India, transcending religious and cultural divides by expressing pride in both his Muslim identity and his Indian nationality.

Azad’s intellectual prowess and leadership were vital in uniting diverse groups within the struggle, fostering a sense of collective purpose among Indians from various backgrounds.

10. Mahatma Gandhi: The Quit India Movement (1942)

Mahatma Gandhi (Credit: Canva/Cherry Gupta_Indian Express)

Finally, during the Quit India Movement in August 1942, Mahatma Gandhi delivered a passionate address urging the nation to “Do or Die” for immediate independence.

His call galvanised widespread protests and civil disobedience, through his philosophy of non-violent resistance, which became central to India’s path to independence, inspiring millions to join the fight against colonial rule and marking a pivotal moment in the struggle for freedom.