161th Birth Anniversary of Lala Lajpat Rai | 29 Jan 2026

Source: PIB  

Recently, the Prime Minister paid tribute to Lala Lajpat Rai on his 161^th birth anniversary on 28^th January, honouring his sacrifices in India’s freedom struggle. 

Lala Lajpat Rai  

• About: Lala Lajpat Rai, born on 28th January 1865 in Dhudike village, in present-day Punjab, was one of India’s foremost freedom fighters and nationalist leaders, popularly known as “Punjab Kesari” (Lion of Punjab).  
• Early life & Education: He studied law at Government College, Lahore, and was deeply influenced by Swami Dayananda Saraswati, joining the Arya Samaj.  
• Role in National Movement: Along with Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal, he formed the Lal-Bal-Pal trio of extremist leaders.  
• Contributions: His notable works include Young India, England’s Debt to India, India’s Will to Freedom, and Message of the Bhagavad Gita. 
  • He co-founded Punjab National Bank (1894) and established several educational and social institutions. 
• Death: He died in 1928 after injuries sustained during a lathi-charge while leading a peaceful protest against the Simon Commission in Lahore.