Alluri Sitarama Raju was an Indian revolutionary who fought against British colonial rule in the early 20th century. He is one of the unsung heroes of India’s freedom struggle, and his legacy is celebrated as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. Here is a summary of his life and achievements:

Introduction

Alluri Sitarama Raju was born in 1897 or 1898 in Pandrangi, a village in present-day Andhra Pradesh. He belonged to a Telugu-speaking family and was named Alluri Rama Raju. Raju later added “Sita” to his name in memory of his childhood love, who died young. He became a sanyasi at 18 and traveled across India, learning about astrology, medicine, and martial arts. The teachings of Swami Vivekananda and Ramakrishna Paramahamsa profoundly influenced him.

Rebellion against British

Alluri Sitarama Raju returned to his native region in 1920 and joined the Non-cooperation movement led by Mahatma Gandhi. He mobilized the tribal people of the Eastern Ghats, who were oppressed by the British policies that restricted their access to forest resources and forced them to pay heavy taxes. Raju formed a guerrilla army of tribals and sympathizers and launched a series of attacks on British police stations, government offices, and railway lines. He acquired weapons and ammunition from his raids and distributed them among his followers. He also wrote letters to the British authorities, challenging them to stop him if they could. The locals named him “Manyam Veerudu” (Hero of the Jungle) for his bravery and leadership.

Death and Legacy

Alluri Sitarama Raju’s rebellion lasted two years, from 1922 to 1924. The British government deployed a large force of police and army personnel to capture him and suppress his movement. They also used informers and spies to track his movements. In May 1924, he was betrayed by one of his associates and was surrounded by the British forces at Koyyuru village in Chintapalle forests. He was captured, tied to a tree, and shot dead by a firing squad. His body was cremated at Krishnadevipeta village.

Alluri Sitarama Raju is remembered as one of India’s most courageous and charismatic freedom fighters. His life and struggle inspired many people, especially the tribal communities, to resist colonial oppression and assert their rights. Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the Alluri Sitarama Raju statue in 2022 as part of the 125th birth anniversary celebrations. His story is also depicted in films, books, songs, and plays. He is regarded as a national hero and a symbol of India’s diversity, culture, and unity.

Conclusion

Alluri Sitarama Raju was an Indian revolutionary who fought against British colonial rule in the early 20th century. He led a guerrilla rebellion of tribal people in the Eastern Ghats region and challenged the British authorities with his daring raids and letters. He was killed by British forces in 1924 after being betrayed by one of his associates. His legacy is celebrated as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, and he is honored as one of the unsung heroes of India’s freedom struggle.