On 24 September 1932, Pritilata Waddedar, a brave revolutionary, gave her life to the cause of India’s independence. She was born on 5 May 1911 in Chattogram. She was academically gifted, excelling in her studies in Chattogram, Dhaka and later at Kolkata’s Bethune College, where she graduated with distinction in philosophy. However, her commitment to India’s freedom cemented her place in history.
Led by Surya Sen, known for his leadership in the Chattogram Armoury Raid of 1930, Pritilata joined the revolutionary movement. She became a central figure in the Indian Republican Army’s Chattogram branch. She led a daring attack on the Pahartali European Club in September 1932, a symbol of British colonial arrogance, notorious for its sign: “Dogs and Indians not allowed.” Pritilata, along with her fellow revolutionaries, attacked the club, leaving a person dead and several injured. After torching the building, the group faced retaliation from British forces.
Rather than be captured, Pritilata chose to take cyanide, ending her life but ensuring she would not fall into enemy hands. Her suicide was preplanned and she carried a letter detailing the goals of the Indian Republican Army, acknowledging the leadership of Surya Sen and referencing her conversations with revolutionary Ramkrishna Biswas, who awaited execution in a British jail.
Pritilata’s sacrifice made her the distinction of being Bengal’s first woman martyr. Her fearless actions continue to inspire generations as a witness to women's critical role in the Indian independence movement.
Her legacy is courage, resistance and a durable commitment to her nation's freedom, securing her a place among the most revered figures in India’s fight against colonial rule.
