Murmu recalls 12-year-old freedom fighter at Kurukshetra diamond jubilee

Neeraj Bali

Chandigarh, Nov 1 (UNI) President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday called upon the Haryana government to document the little-known contribution of a 12-year-old girl from Rewari to India's freedom struggle, as she praised the state's women athletes, military traditions and economic achievements during celebrations marking 60 years of its formation.

Addressing the diamond jubilee celebrations at Kurukshetra University, Murmu recalled how the young girl had participated in the Civil Disobedience Movement in 1930, defied the British salt law and contributed her savings to the freedom struggle. The President said the girl had saved two paise every day over several years before donating the accumulated amount to the movement against British rule. "I would request the state government to collect detailed information about this inspiring episode and bring it before society," she said. The President's remarks brought attention to the contribution of ordinary citizens, particularly women and children, whose sacrifices during the independence movement have received relatively little recognition.

Murmu said Haryana's history was not confined to its military achievements but also reflected a strong tradition of public participation in national movements. Describing Haryana as a land of bravery and spirituality, she said its people had played an important role in shaping India's history and development. She referred to Kurukshetra's association with the Bhagavad Gita, saying the message delivered on this sacred land had travelled across the world and continued to guide humanity. The President also singled out Haryana's women sportspersons for bringing international recognition to India.

Referring to shooter Manu Bhaker and boxers Saweety Boora and Jaismine Lamboria, she said the achievements of the state's daughters were a matter of national pride. Their success, she said, demonstrated the determination and capabilities of young women who were making their mark in competitive sports. Murmu also acknowledged Haryana's contribution to national security through its armed forces personnel and its role in strengthening the country's infrastructure, including the railway network. Her address formed the centrepiece of the state-level celebrations commemorating Haryana's creation on November 1, 1966, following its separation from Punjab.

Earlier in the morning, the President offered prayers at the Shri Devikoop Bhadrakali Temple in Kurukshetra, seeking peace, happiness and prosperity for the people. Governor Asim Kumar Ghosh and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini accompanied her. At Kurukshetra University, the celebrations opened with a rendition of Vande Mataram, followed by a presentation tracing Haryana's development over the past six decades.

The President unveiled the diamond jubilee celebrations logo and inspected an exhibition showcasing the state's achievements and its development ambitions for 2047. The exhibition highlighted Haryana's transformation since statehood and its progress across various sectors. In a separate interaction, Murmu received a silhouette portrait from Chetan Atri, a Class 11 student from Munaredi village in Kaithal district. Atri, who studies at DAV Public School, said he had spent nearly a week preparing the artwork. He said the President appreciated his portrait and asked about his education.

The President's visit to Kurukshetra also included a scheduled programme at Gurukul Kurukshetra commemorating the 100th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur. The diamond jubilee celebrations come as Haryana completes six decades of statehood, with the government highlighting its achievements and outlining its vision for the coming years.

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