New Delhi: On September 28, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored the 118th birth anniversary of India's iconic revolutionary freedom fighter, Bhagat Singh, during the 126th episode of his monthly radio program Mann Ki Baat. Describing Bhagat Singh as "an inspiration for every Indian, especially the youth," Modi emphasized the revolutionary's innate fearlessness, stating, "Fearlessness was deeply ingrained in his nature."BULLMER Trendy Clothing Set with Shirt & Pants Co-ords for Men

He recounted a poignant detail from Bhagat Singh's final days, noting, "Before being hanged, he had written a letter to the British requesting a prisoner of war-like treatment from the British and that he and his associates be shot to death, rather than being hanged. He was very sensitive towards people's sufferings."Also Read: TVK (Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam) Flag Trademark Dispute: Madras High Court Seeks Response from Actor Vijay and Party

Who Was Bhagat Singh?
Bhagat Singh, born on September 28, 1907, into a Punjabi Sikh family in the village of Banga (now in Pakistan's Punjab province), emerged as a symbol of defiance against British colonial rule. From a young age, he participated in revolutionary activities, initially aligning with Mahatma Gandhi's Non-Cooperation Movement before embracing more radical ideologies. He played a pivotal role in renaming the Hindustan Republican Association to the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA), which became synonymous with bold actions like the 1929 Central Legislative Assembly bombing. His famous slogan, Inquilab Zindabad ("Long Live the Revolution"), continues to echo in India's collective memory. Influenced by Marxist thought, Bhagat Singh's writings critiqued inequality and imperialism. Tragically, he was hanged on March 23, 1931, at the age of 23, alongside comrades Rajguru and Sukhdev, in the Lahore Conspiracy Case.

Other Tributes:

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also commemorated the occasion, highlighting Bhagat Singh's writings against hate and divisive forces. Quoting the martyr, Kharge said, "The love for the country will not go away from the heart even after death. The fragrance of the country will also come from my soil. ~ Martyr Bhagat Singh." He added, "His patriotism was centred on equality and unity, which will remain a source of inspiration for every Indian."

Bhagat Singh's legacy of courage and sacrifice resonates deeply in modern India, particularly among the youth, as a call to uphold democratic values and social justice. For the full Mann Ki Baat episode and more on the anniversary, tune into Doordarshan or All India Radio archives.