Udham Singh was born on 26 December 1899 in Sunam, Punjab, into a humble Sikh family. His father, Sardar Tehal Singh, worked as a railway watchman, and his mother was Narain Kaur. Tragedy struck early in his life as he lost both parents at a young age and grew up in an orphanage in Amritsar with his elder brother. Known for his courage and determination, Udham Singh also adopted the name Ram Mohammad Singh Azad to symbolize unity among India’s major religions—Hindu, Muslim, and Sikh.

His Contribution to the Nation

Udham Singh’s life changed forever after witnessing the Jallianwala Bagh massacre on 13 April 1919, where hundreds of innocent Indians were brutally killed by General Dyer’s troops under the orders of Michael O’Dwyer. Deeply affected, he vowed to avenge the killings and fight for India’s independence. After years of revolutionary work abroad, he finally shot and killed Michael O’Dwyer on 13 March 1940 in London’s Caxton Hall, delivering justice for the massacre. His act was a strong message to the British Empire that India would not forget its martyrs.

More About His Legacy

Udham Singh was arrested immediately after the assassination and used his trial to condemn British colonial rule. On 31 July 1940, he was executed at Pentonville Prison, London. In 1974, his remains were brought back to India and cremated with full state honors in Punjab. Today, Udham Singh is remembered as a fearless patriot whose sacrifice continues to inspire generations. His unwavering courage and commitment to justice have earned him a permanent place among India’s greatest freedom fighters.