Early Life and Legal Achievements
Chittaranjan Das Legacy and Leadership: Chittaranjan Das (1870 – 1925), widely revered as Deshbandhu (Friend of the Nation), was a distinguished freedom fighter and lawyer. He gained prominence by successfully defending Aurobindo Ghose in the Alipore Bomb Case of 1908. Das also served as the defence counsel in the Dacca Conspiracy Case (1910–11), earning recognition for his legal acumen. Static GK fact: The Alipore Bomb Case was one of the landmark trials in Bengal during the freedom struggle.
Political Leadership
Das actively participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement launched in 1920. His leadership skills were acknowledged when he was elected President of the Indian National Congress at the 1922 Gaya session in Bihar. In 1923, he co-founded the Swaraj Party with Pt. Motilal Nehru and Vittalbhai Patel, aiming to enter legislatures and challenge colonial policies from within. Static GK Tip: The Swaraj Party sought constitutional reforms while continuing the struggle for self-rule.
Contributions to Education and Civic Life
In 1921, Das established the National University at Dacca, providing a platform for higher education in Bengal. He was elected as the first mayor of the Calcutta Municipal Corporation in 1924, reflecting his commitment to civic administration and public welfare. Static GK fact: The Calcutta Municipal Corporation, established in 1876, is one of India’s oldest municipal bodies.
Literary and Journalistic Work
Das was also a prolific writer and editor. He founded the newspaper Forward, later renamed Liberty, with Subhash Chandra Bose serving as editor. His notable books include India for Indians and Freedom through Disobedience, which emphasized self-rule, patriotism, and active civic engagement. Static GK Tip: “Freedom through Disobedience” highlighted non-violent resistance as a tool for India’s independence.
Values and Legacy
Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das is remembered for his unwavering patriotism, visionary leadership, and commitment to selfless service. His multifaceted contributions—as a lawyer, politician, educator, and writer—played a critical role in shaping the Indian independence movement. His life remains a guiding example for leadership rooted in integrity and social responsibility.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Chittaranjan Das Legacy and Leadership:
| Topic | Detail |
| Birth and Death | 1870 – 1925 |
| Title | Deshbandhu (Friend of the Nation) |
| Legal Achievements | Defence counsel in Alipore Bomb Case (1908), Dacca Conspiracy Case (1910–11) |
| Political Roles | President of Indian National Congress (1922), Co-founder of Swaraj Party (1923) |
| Education Contribution | Founded National University at Dacca (1921) |
| Civic Contribution | First elected Mayor of Calcutta Municipal Corporation (1924) |
| Literary Work | Newspaper: Forward/Liberty; Books: India for Indians, Freedom through Disobedience |
| Key Values | Patriotism, leadership, selfless service |
