Delhi, 4 October (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reflected on a deeply poignant chapter from two decades ago when he fulfilled the dying wish of revolutionary freedom fighter Shyamji Krishna Varma, whose ashes returned to Indian soil 73 years after his death.

Marking the birth anniversary of the Gujarat-born patriot, the Prime Minister highlighted the historic 2003 initiative undertaken during his tenure as Chief Minister to bring Varma's ashes from Geneva, Switzerland, honouring a solemn promise the freedom fighter made to himself before passing away in 1930.

A Promise Kept After Seven Decades

Shyamji Krishna Varma passed away in exile in 1930, holding onto the fervent hope that his ashes would one day return to a free and independent India.

This profound wish remained unfulfilled for decades until August 2003, when the then Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi personally travelled to St. George's cemetery in Geneva to collect the patriot's ashes from Swiss authorities.

The initiative, PM Modi noted, honoured the memory of a courageous son of Mother India and reaffirmed the nation's commitment to preserving the legacy of its freedom movement.

Call to Youth

Responding to a thread by the PM Modi Archive handle on social media platform X, the Prime Minister urged the younger generation to draw inspiration from Varma's life. This thread highlights a very satisfying effort undertaken about two decades ago, thus fulfilling a wish of Shyamji Krishna Varma and honouring a courageous son of Maa Bharti. May more youngsters read about his greatness and bravery, the Prime Minister wrote.

Earlier in the day, paying tribute on Varma's birth anniversary, Modi had posted in Hindi: Respectful homage to the diligent son of Mother India, Shyamji Krishna Varma, on his birth anniversary on behalf of all citizens. His courage, dedication and spirit of service in the freedom movement will always be remembered with reverence. His saga of bravery and fearlessness is a great source of inspiration for building a developed India.

Revolutionary Legacy

The freedom fighter, who founded India House in London as a leading centre of Indian nationalism during colonial rule, played a pivotal role in India's struggle for independence through his fearless pursuit of justice and unwavering dedication to the nation's freedom.

The Prime Minister expressed hope that more young Indians will read about Varma's life and draw strength from his revolutionary spirit to contribute towards building a developed India.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar