Exploring Lucknow’s monuments: A journey through the city’s role in India’s freedom struggle

India fought for its freedom from British rule for nearly two centuries. The story of subjugation, which began with the Battle of Buxar in 1764, culminated in India’s Independence on August 15, 1947. Throughout these decades, every region of the country contributed to the fight against British imperialism and the quest for complete independence.

Lucknow was no exception. In fact, the city played a pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle, serving as the 'eye of the storm' during the Revolt of 1857.

Referred to as the most important monument in Lucknow when it comes to India's freedom struggle, the British Residency is where the Siege of Lucknow took place during the Revolt of 1857. The siege lasted from July 1857 to November 1857 and this place was the focal point of all the action before the revolutionaries took control of the city.

To this day, the Siege of Lucknow is widely considered to be one of the most famous incidents of the Revolt of 1857. One can say that this monument at the heart of the city had a massive role to play in what is known as India's First War of Independence.

During the British rule, places like the Mohammed Bagh Club in Lucknow used to have signboards saying 'Dogs and Indians not allowed'. The Rifa-e-Aam club in Qaiserbagh was built in defiance of such elitism and discrimination.

A symbol of Nationalistic defiance, this seemingly forgotten monument is the same place where Mahatma Gandhi once delivered speeches on Hindi-Muslim unity. The Lucknow Pact of 1916, between the Congress and Muslim League, was also signed at this place.

Besides being a bastion of Sufism and culture, this building in old Lucknow also played a vital role in India's freedom struggle. In fact, Mahatma Gandhi visited this place three times as a guest, between 1920 and 1922. When here, the Mahatma discussed strategies to propel the Independence struggle forward.

Furthermore, leaders like Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sarojini Naidu also visited Firangi Mahal in Lucknow to gain momentum for the freedom struggle.

Located at around 16 km from Lucknow, Kakori is the village where the infamous Kakori train robbery took place. The robbery was organized by the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA) in 1925 and was masterminded by revolutionaries Ram Prasad Bismil and Ashfaqullah Khan.

The incident later found its place in a slew of popular movies. But its most significant impact occurred when it happened, as it inspired thousands of youngsters to join India's struggle for freedom.