🕊️ Remembering Sewa Singh Thikriwala: Torchbearer of Punjab’s Freedom Struggle
A tribute to the revolutionary voice of the Praja Mandal movement

✊ A Life of Resistance and Reform

Every year, from January 18 to 20, the village of Thikriwala in Punjab reverberates with the spirit of self-rule and sacrifice as locals commemorate Sewa Singh Thikriwala, a stalwart of the Praja Mandal movement. His death on January 20, 1935, following a hunger strike in prison, remains a symbol of unwavering resistance against colonial rule. 🕯️

👤 Who Was Sewa Singh Thikriwala?

• Born in the late 19th century in Thikriwala village, Punjab
• Son of Dewa Singh, a respected court official
• Started his career as a health officer but soon gave it up to join socio-religious reform movements
• Became a prominent face of both the Singh Sabha and Praja Mandal movements
• Known for his strong sense of justice and commitment to civil liberties

🕉️ Role in the Singh Sabha Movement

In a time of growing British influence and religious conversions, the Singh Sabha Movement arose to preserve Sikh identity:

• Promoted Gurmukhi education 📚
• Advocated traditional Anand Karaj (Sikh marriage rituals)
• Sewa Singh led local initiatives like organising Gurmukhi classes in Gurdwaras to strengthen cultural roots

🛑 Championing People’s Rights: The Praja Mandal Movement

Sewa Singh emerged as a powerful voice in the Praja Mandal movement, a wave of activism across over 600 princely states:

• Called for civil liberties, fair taxation, and democratic reforms 🗳️
• Actively mobilised the Malwa region, which continues to hold political significance
• Endured multiple imprisonments for leading protests against oppressive rulers

⚖️ Martyrdom Through Hunger

In 1934, while jailed for his activism, Sewa Singh began a hunger strike to protest inhumane treatment.
He died in custody in 1935, becoming a martyr for the cause of self-determination and justice 💔

🏵️ Annual Memorial in Thikriwala

His memory is honoured each year through:

• Nagar Kirtans (religious processions) 🚩
• Seminars and public lectures on civil rights
• A statue in Thikriwala village stands as a tribute to his sacrifice
• The event draws political leaders and activists who pledge development in his name

🏫 Legacy and Modern Recognition

In 2023, Punjab’s Finance Minister announced key initiatives:

• Upgrade of government schools in the area 🎓
• New nursing college in Thikriwala 🏥
• Plans to restore Sewa Singh’s ancestral home and convert it into a memorial museum 🏡

These steps aim to not only preserve his legacy but also inspire future generations to carry forward his values of resistance, reform, and righteousness.

🌟 Final Thought

Sewa Singh Thikriwala’s life wasn’t just about protest — it was about purpose.
In his commitment to freedom, dignity, and cultural identity, he became one of Punjab’s timeless heroes. His legacy reminds us that real change begins with conviction — and a voice that refuses to be silenced. 🎙️🕊️