 Early Times Report
LUCKNOW, Nov 16: On Sunday, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled the statue of Veerangna Uda Devi Pasi, an epitome of courage, sacrifice, and self-respect, on her martyrdom day. The Chief Minister also addressed the gathering at Pasi Swabhiman Diwas. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that the role of countless heroes and women in India's freedom struggle is unforgettable, and in this context, Lucknow holds a special place. He noted that Uttar Pradesh was the epicenter of the First War of Independence in 1857.
He added, "The revolt was sparked by Mangal Pandey in Barrackpore, carried forward by Dhan Singh Kotwal in Meerut, and led heroically in Jhansi by Maharani Lakshmibai. In Bithoor, Tatya Tope gave the uprising further strength." The Chief Minister also recalled Begum Hazrat Mahal, describing her as an immortal warrior who, along with Veerangna Uda Devi Pasi and others, fought valiantly to drive out foreign rulers. He said Uda Devi remains a source of inspiration not just for women, but for every Indian.
He said that on November 16, 1857, Uda Devi climbed a peepal tree in Sikanderbagh, Lucknow, and fought back against foreign rule with extraordinary bravery, reportedly killing 36 British soldiers. Her name, he said, has been etched permanently in history. Uda Devi's sacrifice teaches us that when injustice grows, resistance must grow even stronger. Through her actions, she inspired revolutionaries and the youth to stand against oppression.
CM Yogi further said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the double-engine government in Uttar Pradesh is honoring and preserving the state's heritage. He added, "Kashi Vishwanath Dham has been developed in Varanasi, and the grand temple of Lord Ram has been constructed at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya."
He recalled his visit to Maharaja Bijli Pasi Fort and said the government has approved its beautification and the installation of a light-and-sound show to ensure future generations learn from the legacy of the region's warriors, including Maharaja Lakhan Pasi, Satan Pasi, Cheeta Pasi, Bijli Pasi, Raja Gangabaksh Rawat, and Veera Pasi. Several old forts are being restored and developed into centres of inspiration for youth.
The Chief Minister said the state government has incorporated the contributions of every revolutionary and martyr into the school curriculum. An additional book has been introduced through the Basic Education Council, and the syllabus has been expanded at local, regional, and state levels so that students in every class learn about India's great personalities.
He also highlighted the government's initiatives to empower women and enhance their security. Over the past eight years, the government has recruited 2,19,000 police personnel, with 20% of the positions reserved for women. Three new women's PAC battalions have been established, one in Lucknow named after Uda Devi, one in Gorakhpur named after Jhalkari Bai Kori, and one in Badaun named after Avanti Bai Lodhi. These brave women, he said, played a decisive role in India's struggle for freedom and demonstrated the immense courage and strength of Nari Shakti. |
