Tarun Ram Phukan was born on January 22, 1877, in Assam and earned the title Deshbhakta for his deep love for his country. After studying law in London and teaching at Earle Law College (now Bishnu Ram Medhi Law College) in Guwahati, he dedicated his life to the freedom movement inspired by Mahatma Gandhi.
Early Role in the Freedom Fight
- Joined the Congress in 1920 and helped establish the Assam division.
- Became Gandhi’s trusted companion during his 1921 visit to Assam, spreading the non-cooperation message.
- Arrested and imprisoned for a year by the British for his activism.
The Assam-Bengal Railway Strike of 1921
Phukan played a key role in the indefinite strike by Assam-Bengal Railway workers protesting the British persecution of Chandpur plantation laborers. With young Congressmen like Nabin Chandra Bardoloi, he extended the strike across the Brahmaputra Valley. Collaborating with Bengali leaders like C.R. Das and J.M. Sengupta kept the workers’ morale high despite challenges.
The Historic Pandu Session of 1926
In 1926, Phukan organized the All-India Congress Committee (AICC) session in Pandu, Guwahati. This event united national leaders like Gandhi, Motilal Nehru, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Sardar Patel, and Madan Mohan Malaviya. Gandhi stayed at Phukan’s house in Bharalumukh, where they performed the bideshi bostro dah jagya (burning of foreign goods). The session was presided over by S. Srinivasa Iyengar, which was hosted by the Assam Provincial Congress Committee (APCC), with Phukan’s leadership ensuring its success and setting the stage for future resistance.
Empowering Women and Promoting Swadeshi
Phukan was a staunch supporter of women’s empowerment. In 1921, during Gandhi’s meetings at his home, women, including his wife, joined the movement. They boycotted British goods, learned to spin and weave, and made 500 Khadi caps for Congress workers. This inspired rural women to spread the non-cooperation message. Phukan also popularized Khadi, leading the Swadeshi Movement in Assam and encouraging self-reliance.
Phukan’s efforts to educate and inspire made him a visionary. His work in the freedom struggle and women’s empowerment left a lasting impact. Every July 28, Assam celebrates his death anniversary as Deshbhakti Divas to honor his selfless spirit and enlighten the younger generation.
Legacy and Death
Tarun Ram Phukan’s life was full of service to his country and people. He worked tirelessly until his health began to fail. Sadly, he passed away on July 28, 1939, leaving behind a legacy of courage and love for Assam. His death was a big loss, but his ideas lived on. People remembered him as a true patriot, or “Deshbhakta,” because of his selfless work. His family and friends honored him, and over time, the government and people of Assam recognized his contributions. His story became an inspiration for future generations, showing how one person can make a big difference.
Introduction of Deshbhakti Divas
To keep Tarun Ram Phukan’s memory alive, the Assam government started Deshbhakti Divas. This special day is celebrated every year on July 28, which is the day he died. The idea came from Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who announced it in 2021. The goal was to remind people of Phukan’s sacrifices and encourage them to love their country. Deshbhakti Divas is a way to teach young people about patriotism and the freedom struggle. It shows how important it is to remember heroes like Phukan who fought for India’s independence.
Celebrations and Activities
Deshbhakti Divas is marked with many activities across Assam. On July 28 each year, people gather to pay tribute to Tarun Ram Phukan. They offer floral tributes at his statues or memorials, showing respect for his work. Schools and colleges hold special programs, like memorial lectures, where speakers talk about his life. Essay competitions and cultural events are also organized to involve students. For example, on July 28, 2024, districts like Kokrajhar and Dima Hasao held events with speeches, songs, and dances that celebrated Phukan’s legacy. These activities help keep his story alive and inspire others to follow his example of dedication.
Impact on Society
Deshbhakti Divas have a big impact on Assam’s society. It brings people together to remember the past and think about the future. The day teaches children and adults about the value of freedom and the hard work of freedom fighters like Phukan. It also encourages people to be good citizens by helping their community. Many schools use this day to start projects that promote patriotism, like planting trees or cleaning public places. Over the years, Deshbhakti Divas has become a symbol of pride for Assam, showing how one man’s life can influence an entire state.
Even today, Tarun Ram Phukan’s ideas are important. His focus on education, equality, and development matches the needs of modern Assam. As the state grows with new technologies and industries, his vision of a strong and united society still guides people. Deshbhakti Divas remind everyone to work hard and care for their country, just like Phukan did. It also inspires young leaders to take up causes that help others, keeping his spirit alive in today’s world. On July 15, 2025, as we think about his legacy, it’s clear that his work continues to shape Assam’s future.
Conclusion
Deshbhakta Tarun Ram Phukan was a true hero whose life changed Assam and India. From his early days as a student to his role as a freedom fighter and educator, he gave everything for his people. His death on July 28, 1939, marked the end of his journey, but his influence lives on through Deshbhakti Divas. This special day, celebrated every year, keeps his memory fresh and teaches new generations about patriotism. Whether it’s through education, social change, or building a better Assam, Phukan’s legacy is a guiding light. As we honor him today, we are reminded to follow his example of love, sacrifice, and service to the nation.
Q. When is Deshbhakti Divas celebrated in Assam?
Deshbhakti Divas is celebrated on 28 July every year to commemorate the death anniversary of Deshbhakta Tarun Ram Phookan.
Q. Where was the 41st session of Indian National Congress held?
The 41st session of Indian National Congress held in Pandu, Guwahati in 1926.
Q. What was the opening song of the 41st session of Indian National Congress in Guwahati?
The opening song of the Pandu Session of INC in 1926 was Aji Bondo Ki Sondere, composed by Asom Kesari Ambikagiri Rai Chaudhury
Q. Who led the delegation of leaders from Assam for the first time to the Nagpur Session of Indian National Congress in 1921?
Nabin Chandra Bordoloi
Also See: RG Baruah: The architect of modern Assam
