Often overshadowed by her brother, the legendary Bhagat Singh, Sushila Didi was a force to be reckoned with in India’s fight for independence. Born on March 5, 1905, in Datu Chohar, Punjab (now in Pakistan), Sushila’s life was intertwined with the revolutionary fervor that gripped the nation.
From a young age, Sushila was exposed to the injustice of British rule. Her father, Dr. Karam Chand, a medical officer in the British Army, rejected the title of Rai Sahib in defiance of the colonial government. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre further fueled her patriotic spirit, leading her to join the revolutionary movement while still a student.
Sushila’s contributions were diverse and invaluable. She mobilized crowds for protests, acted as a secret courier for revolutionaries, and raised funds for their cause. Her close relationship with Durga Bhabhi, wife of revolutionary Bhagwati Charan Vohra, solidified her place within the movement’s inner circle. Notably, it was Sushila who gave Durga Devi the affectionate title “Durga Bhabhi.”
Sushila’s bravery extended beyond covert operations. She fearlessly participated in the 1930 Civil Disobedience Movement under the alias Indumati, even donning male attire to evade detection. Her commitment to the cause led to multiple arrests and imprisonment, where she endured harsh conditions, including grinding flour in jail.
Her dedication to the freedom struggle was absolute. When revolutionaries involved in the Kakori Conspiracy were arrested, Sushila donated her mother’s gold, intended for her dowry, to fund their legal defense. She even penned a powerful Punjabi song, “Azadi Lardda Bharat Da!” which became an anthem for freedom fighters.
Despite facing constant surveillance and arrest warrants, Sushila remained undeterred. Following the death of revolutionary Jatin Das, she and Durga Bhabhi led a massive procession, igniting the flames of resistance.
After India gained independence, Sushila married fellow revolutionary and lawyer Shyam Mohan. Together, they established Mahila Shilp Vidyalaya in Delhi, a school dedicated to empowering underprivileged women.
Sushila Didi passed away on January 3, 1963, leaving behind a legacy of courage, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to her nation. Though she may not be as widely recognized as some of her contemporaries, her contributions to India’s freedom struggle were undeniably significant.
Today, a road in Delhi bears her name, a small but fitting tribute to a true heroine of India.
