Top Freedom Fighters of India that Every School Student Should Know

The freedom struggle of India is one of the most inspiring chapters in world history. It was not won by one person or one movement; it was the prize of relentless courage, sacrifice, and unity. Great personalities who fought for independence teach students a lot about the value of freedom and the responsibility attached to it. Here is a list of some of the most influential Indian freedom fighters whose lives still inspire generations.
Top 10 Freedom Fighters of India
1. Mahatma Gandhi
Mahatma Gandhi was one of the most famous freedom fighters of India. He gave leadership to movements such as Non-Cooperation, Salt Satyagraha, and Quit India, which turned the freedom struggle into a mass movement. His simple lifestyle and strong belief in moral values inspire millions of students even today.
2. Subhas Chandra Bose
Subhash Chandra Bose was a fearless leader who firmly believed that freedom could only be taken, not requested. He formed the INA and inspired thousands of youth to join in the struggle. His slogan “Give me blood, and I will give you freedom” remains one of the most powerful expressions of patriotism.
3. Bhagat Singh
Bhagat Singh became a national hero when he was very young and is still remembered for his courage and clarity of mind. He protested against unjust laws and believed in complete independence from British rule. Many students wonder, “What is the slogan of Bhagat Singh?” One of the most famous lines by him happens to be “Inquilab Zindabad.” His life is a reminder to people that courage knows no age.
4. Rani Lakshmibai
Rani Lakshmibai is a symbol of bravery among all the freedom fighters of India. She took an active part in the revolt of 1857, fought bravely against the British, and became an icon of women’s leadership. Her courage showed the world that during the hardest battles, determination can also change history.
5. Sarojini Naidu
Popularly known as “The Nightingale of India,” Sarojini Naidu was one of the key women freedom fighters of India. Besides being a poet, she was actively involved with the movements led by Gandhi and later became the first woman governor of any Indian state. Her speeches motivated thousands of citizens to join the struggle for independence.
6. Mangal Pandey
Being considered by many as the first freedom fighter of India, Mangal Pandey sparked the first major uprising against British rule in 1857. He inspired both soldiers and civilians, giving birth to the First War of Indian Independence.
7. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Sardar Patel was highly instrumental in integrating the country after independence and thus came to be called the “Iron Man of India.” He was one of the most powerful voices during the freedom movement and is remembered among the most influential national leaders of India. His negotiation skills and strong leadership continue to inspire young leaders.
8. Chandrashekhar Azad
Azad had given his entire life to the freedom movement, and the guiding rule of his life was that he would never be captured alive by the British. He played an instrumental role in shaping revolutionary organizations and inspiring young patriots like Bhagat Singh. His bravery makes him one of the great leaders of India.
9. Annie Besant
Annie Besant was one of the early advocates of Indian independence. She supported democracy, advocated self-government through the Home Rule Movement, and brought about changes in social and educational reforms. She represents the role of foreign supporters in India’s freedom struggle.
10. Dadabhai Naoroji
Dadabhai Naoroji is known as the “Grand Old Man of India” and was the first Indian elected to the British Parliament. His ideas about economics and Indian rights formed a vital basis for later movements. Students researching the freedom fighters of India will find his work very relevant.
Image Link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/19wuqAuLeksGpJCqkxnkYRmuXSdXwF1q4?usp=sharing
Unsung Heroes you should know
India’s independence was not won only by the famous personalities. There were numerous unsung freedom fighters of India including names like Matangini Hazra, Peer Ali Khan, Velu Nachiyar, Tirupur Kumaran, and many others. These unsung heroes of India gave their lives and were never in the limelight. Their stories remind us that every courageous act counts.
Why Students Should Learn About Them
Understanding the journey of the top 10 freedom fighters of India helps students in:
- Appreciate the value of independence
- Learn leadership qualities
- Cultivate gratitude and responsibility
- Stay inspired to contribute positively to society
Schools across the country, including some of the best CBSE schools in Coimbatore like Vishwankar Public School (VPS), encourage students to study such leaders in detail through projects, special assemblies, and exhibitions.
FAQs
1. Who are the top 10 freedom fighters of India?
Mahatma Gandhi, Subhas Chandra Bose, Bhagat Singh, Rani Lakshmibai, Sarojini Naidu, Chandrashekhar Azad, Mangal Pandey, Sardar Patel, Annie Besant and Dadabhai Naoroji.
2. Who was the 17-year-old freedom fighter?
One of the youngest martyrs, Kanaklata Barua, fearlessly led a procession during the Quit India Movement when she was only 17 years old.
3. Who are the top 10 female freedom fighters?
Rani Lakshmibai, Sarojini Naidu, Kasturba Gandhi, Annie Besant, Madam Bhikaji Cama, Aruna Asaf Ali, Kalpana Datta, Kamala Nehru, Durgabai Deshmukh and Matangini Hazra.
4. Who is our first lady freedom fighter?
Velu Nachiyar is considered by many as the first Indian woman freedom fighter, who fought against the British in the 18th century.
5. Who is the mother of Indian freedom?
Madam Bhikaji Cama is regarded as the “Mother of the Indian Revolution.”
6. Who took Bhagat Singh’s famous photo?
His iconic photograph was taken at the Ramnath Photographic Studio in Lahore.
7. What is the slogan of Bhagat Singh?
“Inquilab Zindabad” is his most famous slogan.
8. Who saved Bhagat Singh?
While attempts were made by revolutionaries such as Chandrashekhar Azad and Batukeshwar Dutt, the British tightened security, preventing any rescue.

