India’s freedom struggle was a movement of countless heroes and heroines. While many names like Mahatma Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, and Subhas Chandra Bose are well known, there were many others who made great sacrifices but are less remembered. One such brave soul was Matangini Hazra, affectionately called Gandhi Buri or "Old Lady Gandhi." She was a symbol of courage, determination, and patriotism. Despite her age and poverty, she became an active part of the Indian freedom movement and laid down her life for the country.
This article tells the inspiring story of Matangini Hazra — from her simple beginnings to becoming a martyr while leading a protest, holding the national flag high and chanting "Vande Mataram" till her last breath.
Early Life
Matangini Hazra was born in 1869 in a small village called Hogla in the Tamluk sub-division of Midnapore district, in the present-day state of West Bengal. She belonged to a poor family and did not receive a formal education. Like many girls of that time, she was married off at a very young age — only 12 years old — to a man who was much older than her.
Her husband passed away soon after their marriage, leaving her a widow at a young age. In those days, widowhood was considered a curse, and widows were often treated poorly by society. But Matangini did not lose hope. She chose to live a life of dignity and courage, slowly turning her pain into strength.
Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi
As the Indian freedom movement started growing in the 20th century, Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of non-violence and civil disobedience reached every corner of India. Matangini, though uneducated, was deeply inspired by Gandhi's message. She started wearing khadi, spinning the charkha, and involving herself in social service. People began to call her Gandhi Buri, which means "Old Lady Gandhi," as a mark of respect and affection.
Joining the Freedom Struggle
Despite her age, Matangini became actively involved in the Civil Disobedience Movement launched by Gandhi in 1930. She began participating in marches, protests, and picketing activities. She was arrested several times for protesting against British rule, but her spirit remained unshaken.
In 1932, during the Salt Satyagraha, she was arrested for breaking the Salt Law. While in prison, she worked with great discipline and dedication. Her courage and dedication made her popular among fellow protesters and freedom fighters in Bengal.
Participation in Local Movements
Matangini was not just active in national-level protests, but also involved in local movements. In her district of Midnapore, people began organizing against British taxation and unjust rule. She became a leader among local women, encouraging them to join the freedom struggle.
She was involved in boycotting foreign goods, spreading the use of swadeshi (Indian-made) items, and helping organize village-level protests. She often walked long distances to attend meetings and spread Gandhi’s message.
The Quit India Movement and Her Martyrdom
In 1942, Mahatma Gandhi launched the Quit India Movement, calling for the British to leave India immediately. This movement spread like wildfire across the country. In Bengal, especially in Tamluk, people took part in huge numbers, and Matangini Hazra played a key role.
On 29th September 1942, at the age of 73, she led a procession of over 6,000 people, mostly women, to take control of the local British administrative office in Tamluk. They were unarmed and non-violent. Matangini walked at the front, holding the Indian flag high.
As the crowd approached the office, British police ordered them to stop. When they didn’t, the police opened fire. Matangini was hit by a bullet in her arm. But she did not stop. Holding the flag high, she continued marching and chanting "Vande Mataram" — a patriotic slogan that means “I bow to thee, Mother.”
She was shot again, but she did not drop the flag. Finally, a third bullet hit her head, and she died on the spot, still holding the tricolor. Her last words were "Vande Mataram."
Legacy and Remembrance
Matangini Hazra’s sacrifice left a deep impact on the people of Bengal. Her bravery inspired many more to join the fight for independence. Although she died in 1942, her spirit lived on in the hearts of freedom fighters.
After India gained independence in 1947, her contribution was honored in many ways:
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Statue in Kolkata: A statue of Matangini Hazra stands at the heart of Kolkata, near Esplanade, a rare honor for a female freedom fighter.
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Schools and Roads: Several schools, colleges, and roads in West Bengal and other parts of India have been named after her.
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Postage Stamp: In 2002, the Government of India issued a commemorative postage stamp in her name to celebrate her sacrifice.
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History Textbooks: She is now mentioned in school textbooks in West Bengal and other states, helping younger generations learn about her bravery.
A Symbol of Women Empowerment
Matangini Hazra's life is not only a story of patriotism but also a powerful example of women’s courage and strength. At a time when women were expected to stay behind the scenes, she stepped forward and led from the front. She proved that age, poverty, and lack of education could not stop someone with a strong will and a patriotic heart.
Her leadership of thousands of women in Tamluk is one of the earliest examples of women-led protest movements in India. She became an icon of female resistance against colonial rule.
Important Lessons from Matangini Hazra’s Life
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Age is no barrier: Matangini was 73 years old when she led her final protest. Her age did not stop her from standing up against injustice.
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Non-violence is powerful: She believed in Gandhi’s principles and showed that peaceful resistance could shake an empire.
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Leadership from the grassroots: Even without a formal education or position, she led thousands of people, showing that true leadership comes from the heart.
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Women can lead change: She broke social norms and inspired countless women to take part in India’s freedom struggle.
Conclusion
Matangini Hazra is one of India’s unsung heroes. Her name may not be as widely known as some other freedom fighters, but her courage, determination, and sacrifice are no less inspiring. She represents the power of ordinary people to bring about extraordinary change. Her life teaches us that we don't need to be rich, famous, or powerful to make a difference — we only need courage, love for our country, and a willingness to act.
As we enjoy the freedom she helped achieve, let us remember Gandhi Buri — the old lady who carried the flag of India in her hands and the love of India in her heart, even in her last breath.
Matangini Hazra may be gone, but her story continues to inspire generations of Indians.
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