"I Choose Death"

Reflecting on the Indian freedom struggle unveils the significant role played by women, and among these nationalist women, Pritilata Waddedar stands out as Bengal’s first woman martyr. Her story transcends the confines of feminism.

Pritilata Waddedar | Source: India Times

Born into a Baidya Brahmin family on 5 May 1911, Pritilata was the second of six siblings. Her father, Jagabandhu Waddedar, a clerk, placed great emphasis on educating his children. Pritilata, a gifted student with interests in arts and history, attended Dr. Khastagir Government Girls’ School. It was here that her teacher kindled nationalist fervour by recounting stories of Rani Laxmibai. In 1929, Pritilata moved to Eden College, Dhaka, where she immersed herself in the freedom struggle. The aftermath of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919 stirred a wave of nationalism across India. Pritilata, like many young men and women, joined nationalist groups. During her time at Eden College, she encountered women revolutionaries, including Leela Nag, an advocate for women's education. These encounters fueled her anti-colonial sentiments, leading her to join Deepali Sangha, a revolutionary organisation.

Relocating to Calcutta (now Kolkata), Pritilata enrolled in Bethune College. Pursuing a degree in philosophy, she connected with Master Surjya Sen, a leader in the Bengal freedom struggle. Initially involved in small operations, she transported weapons and aided other activists. Following a failed assassination attempt on Mr. Craig, Inspector General of Chittagong, Pritilata visited arrested freedom fighters Ramakrishna Biswas and Kalipada Chakravarty, posing as their cousin. Inspired by Biswas's ideals, she moved back to Chittagong, worked as a teacher, and actively collaborated with the Indian Revolutionary Army (IRA). Pritilata distributed pamphlets, gathered intelligence, recruited women, and supplied arms. She played a pivotal role in the Chittagong armoury raid, disrupting communication lines during the attack.

As the British army retaliated, activists fled to the Jalalabad hills. After a fierce battle, many were dead or captured, but Pritilata managed to escape. While in hiding, Surjya Sen planned guerilla attacks. Pritilata led an assault on the Pahartali European Club, infamous for its discriminatory door sign. It read, “Dogs and Indians not allowed.” Despite being only twenty-one, she orchestrated the attack, and on 24 September 1932, disguised as waiters, the team opened fire and set the club ablaze. Facing reinforcements, Pritilata was shot in the leg. Anticipating capture and mistreatment, she consumed a cyanide pill, expressing her disdain for the colonists until her last breath.

Although operational for a brief period, Pritilata left an indelible mark on Indian history, revered as "Bengal's first woman martyr." The Birkannya Pritilata Trust (Brave Lady Pritilata Trust) was established in her honour, and her legacy endures through landmarks and institutions. Hand-written pamphlets found after her death reveal her unwavering commitment:

“Long Live Revolution”, “An appeal to sisters… Women today have taken the firm resolution that they will not remain in the background. For the freedom of their motherland, they are willing to stand side by side with their brothers in every action, however hard or fearful it may be… I boldly declare myself as a revolutionary.” – Pritilata Waddedar

Pritilata Waddedar's contribution remains a powerful testament to her dedication to the freedom of her motherland.