Hemu Kalani: The Unyielding loyal Son of Sindh Who Stood Firm Against the British
Hemu Sindhi was one of the youngest Sindhi loyal son of Sindh Mata (Jethi Bai) and martyrs of freedom struggle, sacrificing his life at the teenage. A brave and determined revolutionary, he played a key role in the Quit India Movement and fought against British colonial rule with unwavering courage.
His story remains an inspiration for generations, especially for the youth, showcasing patriotism, resilience, and sacrifice against the invaders, such Doda have never surrendered against evil like Raja Dahir, Makhdoom Bilawal, Dodo Samo, they stood firm and fought against the invaders at their life.
Early Life and Inspiration
Born on 23 March 1923, in Sukkur سکر, Sindh, Hemu Kalani grew up in a patriotic Sindhi family. His parents, Pesumal Kalani and Jethi Bai, instilled strong nationalist values in him from a young age. Coincidentally, his birthdate also marks the martyrdom of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru—three legendary revolutionaries who had a deep impact on his ideals.
As a child, Hemu was actively involved in boycotting foreign goods and promoting the use of Swadeshi (indigenous) products. His early exposure to the freedom movement made him a passionate supporter of India’s struggle for independence.
Joining the Freedom Struggle
Hemu Kalani became a leader of Swaraj Sena, a student organization affiliated with the All India Students Federation (AISF). With the launch of Mahatma Gandhi’s Quit India Movement in 1942, he took a more active role in resisting British rule. His revolutionary spirit and courage made him a prominent figure in Sindh’s independence movement.
The Train Sabotage Attempt
In October 1942, Hemu Kalani learned that a British troop train, carrying reinforcements to suppress the Quit India Movement, was passing through his hometown. He decided to derail the train by removing fishplates from the railway tracks. However, due to a lack of proper tools, he and his comrades attempted the sabotage using ropes.
Unfortunately, they were spotted before they could complete their task. Hemu was captured by the British forces, brutally tortured, and imprisoned. Despite facing severe physical abuse, he refused to reveal the names of his fellow revolutionaries.
Trial and Martyrdom
Hemu was put on trial and sentenced to death by hanging. The people of Sindh appealed to the British authorities for mercy, but the condition for clemency was that Hemu must disclose the names of his associates. He refused to betray his comrades, choosing martyrdom over compromise.
On 21 January 1943, at the tender age of 19, Hemu walked to the gallows with a Bhagavad Gita in his hands, smiling and singing patriotic songs. It is said that instead of losing weight due to stress, he gained weight before his execution, a sign of his unshaken resolve and happiness in sacrificing his life for the motherland.
Legacy and Remembrance
Even though Hemu Kalani’s life was cut short, his bravery left an indelible mark on India’s freedom struggle. His unwavering spirit and supreme sacrifice continue to inspire young generations. Today, he is remembered through various memorials, educational institutions, and public events in Sindh and India.
In 1943, when Jawaharlal Nehru visited Karachi, he made a special trip to Sukkur to console Jethi Bai, the mother of Hemu Kalani, whom he called the “Young Martyr of Sindh.” Captain Gurbaksh Singh Dhillon of Subhas Chandra Bose’s Azad Hind Fauj honored her with a gold medal, recognizing Hemu’s sacrifice.
After Partition, his family migrated to India, where his legacy is still commemorated. However, in Pakistan, only nationalists remember him as their hero, while his courageous fight against British rule in Sindh has been largely erased, despite his ultimate sacrifice for his homeland.
Hemu Kalani, the unyielding son of Sindh, is celebrated by Sindhi nationalists as their hero, who martyred for the motherland’s freedom. Though his legacy is less recognized in Pakistan, Sindhi communities honor his bravery, ensuring his sacrifice remains an inspiration for generations.
Hemu Park Sukkur ( renamed as Muhammad Bin Qasim Park Sukkur)
Hemu Park was built in Sukkur to honor Hemu Kalani’s sacrifice. Later, it was renamed Qasim Park, erasing his legacy. Today, the park remains a popular visitor destination, yet its original dedication is largely forgotten. The renaming reflects the fading recognition of Sindh’s young martyr in Pakistan’s historical narrative.
Commemorative Stamp Honoring Hemu Kalani
In 1983, to mark Hemu Kalani’s 60th birth anniversary, Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi issued a special postage stamp in his honor. The event was a significant tribute to his sacrifice for India’s independence.
A Mother’s Proud Moment
During the unveiling ceremony, Hemu’s mother, Jethi Bai, was seated alongside Bhagat Singh’s mother, symbolizing their shared sacrifice. Newspapers captured this moment, referring to them as “Sindh Mata” and “Punjab Mata.” Hemu’s family, who settled in Delhi after Partition, continues to be recognized for his bravery, with roads, institutions, and memorials named in his honor across India.
Death Anniversary of the Bhagat Singh of Sindh
On January 21, 1943, Hemu Kalani, the Bhagat Singh of Sindh, was hanged for resisting British rule. His sacrifice remains a symbol of courage, inspiring nationalists who honor his legacy of freedom. His legacy serves as a reminder of the power of youth in bringing about change and the importance of standing up against injustice, no matter the odds.
Bottom-line
Hemu Kalani stands among Sindh’s greatest warriors, like Raja Dahir, Dodo Soomro, and Makhdoom Bilawal, who fought bravely and sacrificed their lives for their motherland. Sindhi nationalists honor him as a true Doda—a fearless son of Sindh whose legacy of resistance and patriotism continues to inspire generations.