Bengaluru mourns the loss of one of its most revered freedom fighters as Hulikal Nagabhushan Rao, Karnataka's oldest surviving participant in the Indian Independence movement, passed away on Wednesday at his residence in Malleshwaram. He was 105 years old, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering patriotism and sacrifice.
A Life Dedicated to Freedom
Hailing from Thirthahalli taluk in Shivamogga district, Rao joined the freedom struggle while still a schoolboy, demonstrating an early commitment to the cause of India's liberation from British colonial rule. His dedication earned him several honors throughout his lifetime, recognizing his significant contributions to the nation's history.
Recognition as Karnataka's Oldest Freedom Fighter
Following the demise of scholar and freedom fighter Pandit Sudhakar Chaturvedi in 2020 at the age of 122, Rao was officially acknowledged as Karnataka's oldest surviving freedom fighter. This distinction highlighted his enduring presence as a living link to India's revolutionary past.
During the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, which commemorated 75 years of Independence and 80 years of the Quit India Movement, Karnataka Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot personally visited Rao at his home to felicitate him. This gesture underscored the high regard in which Rao was held by the state's leadership and the public alike.
Activism Against British Rule
In the 1930s, Rao actively opposed British authority by disrupting postal services and severing communication lines in Thirthahalli. He also mobilized local communities to boycott British goods, employing grassroots strategies to challenge colonial economic dominance.
His involvement extended to major national movements, including the Non-Cooperation and Quit India Movements, where he played a pivotal role in organizing resistance efforts. Rao's activism came at a personal cost; he was terminated from his position as a timekeeper at Hindustan Aircraft Ltd after being imprisoned for his role in the freedom struggle. Despite this setback, he remained steadfast in his commitment to the nation's cause.
Vision for India's Future
In a 2022 interview with TOI, Rao emphasized the importance of retaining young talent within India for nation-building, urging the government to prevent their migration to Western countries. His insights reflected a deep concern for the country's developmental trajectory even in his advanced years.
Simultaneous Loss of a Trade Union Leader
In a separate but equally significant loss, Comrade H V Ananthsubba Rao, a prominent figure in Karnataka's labour movement, also passed away in Bengaluru on Wednesday. The 84-year-old union leader had been suffering from age-related ailments.
Rao served as the president of the KSRTC Staff and Workers Federation and had been advocating for employees in road transport corporations since the 1960s. He also worked as an office-bearer of the Communist Party of India (CPI) and contested assembly elections, showcasing his multifaceted engagement in public life.
Legacy in Labour Advocacy
As the longest-serving general secretary of the All-India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), he championed labour causes across various entities in Karnataka. Until recently, he held the position of president of the AITUC Karnataka unit, leaving an indelible mark on the state's industrial relations landscape.
Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy commented on Rao's passing, stating, "He fought for workers' rights and cared for the growth of road transport corporations in the state." This tribute highlights the respect he commanded among policymakers and the working class alike.
The demise of these two distinguished individuals marks the end of an era for Karnataka, reminding us of the sacrifices made by freedom fighters and labour leaders in shaping the state's socio-political fabric. Their contributions continue to inspire future generations to uphold the values of justice, freedom, and equity.
