07 May - Alluri Sitarama Raju death anniversary

 

 

Alluri Sitarama Raju (1897-1924) was a prominent Indian revolutionary who played a significant role in the struggle for Indian independence, particularly in the state of Andhra Pradesh. Here are some key details about his life:

Early Life

• Birth: Alluri Sitarama Raju was born on 04 July 1897, in Pandrangi, a village in the Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh.
• Family: He came from a well-to-do family, with his father being a photographer and his mother, a housewife.
• Education: He received his early education in various places due to his father's job transfers, including Visakhapatnam and Kakinada. He was known to be a bright student but discontinued his studies due to personal reasons.

Revolutionary Activities

• Motivation: The harsh treatment of tribal people by the British authorities deeply influenced Raju, leading him to join the freedom struggle.
• Rampa Rebellion (1922-1924): Alluri Sitarama Raju is most famous for leading the Rampa Rebellion against the British. He mobilized the tribal communities in the Eastern Ghats region to fight against British policies that affected their traditional rights and livelihoods.
• Guerilla Warfare: Raju adopted guerrilla warfare tactics, using the difficult terrain of the forests to his advantage. He and his followers raided police stations, seized arms, and disrupted the British administration.

Death

• Capture and Execution: The British launched a major offensive to capture him. On 07 May 1924, Alluri Sitarama Raju was captured by the British forces. He was tied to a tree and shot dead near the village of Koyyuru in the Visakhapatnam district.

Legacy

• Recognition: Alluri Sitarama Raju is remembered as a valiant freedom fighter who inspired many with his bravery and leadership. Various monuments, institutions, and even a district in Andhra Pradesh (Alluri Sitharama Raju District) have been named in his honor.
• Cultural Impact: His life and deeds have been depicted in various books, movies, and folklore, celebrating his contributions to India's struggle for independence.