Shaheed Kanaklata Barua: The Icon Of Assam's Freedom Struggle

Kanaklata Barua (1924–1942) is remembered as one of the most valiant women martyrs from Assam who played a leading role in India's Quit India Movement. At just 17 years old, she was shot dead by British police while attempting to hoist the Indian flag at the Gohpur Police Station on September 20, 1942.

Early Life of Kanaklata Barua

Born on 22nd December 1924 in the village of Barangabari under Gohpur Police Station, in present-day Sonitpur district (then part of Darrang), Kanaklata belonged to a traditional Dolakasharia family. She lost both parents at a very young age and grew up with a strong sense of responsibility, which later shaped her into a fearless nationalist.

Quit India Movement and 20th September 1942

The Quit India Movement, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi, was gaining momentum across Assam in 1942. In Gohpur, local leaders like Jonaram Bhuyan, Jiten Borah, Lakhi Kanta Bora, Giridhar Barua, and Mukunda Kakaty organized a large-scale protest to hoist the Indian national flag at the Gohpur Police Station.

Young Kanaklata Barua, without informing her family, joined the Mrityu Bahini, a volunteer group formed for this historic flag-hoisting mission. Despite being just a teenager, she was selected to lead the women volunteers, proudly carrying the tricolor flag in her hand.

The March to Gohpur Police Station

On the morning of September 20, 1942, after completing her household chores, Kanaklata bade farewell to her younger siblings, saying she might not return. She joined the volunteers at Barangabari Chariali, where a procession of youth and women, chanting patriotic slogans like “British Imperialists Quit India” and “Freedom is our birthright”, began marching the 12 km route toward Gohpur.

As the group approached the western gate of the Gohpur Police Station, Kanaklata took her place at the front, holding the national flag with unwavering pride.

Martyrdom at the Gates of Freedom

The British police, led by R.M. Sunia, warned the picketers not to enter. When Kanaklata and others continued peacefully toward the gate, pleading that their aim was only to hoist the flag non-violently, the police responded with gunfire—without any warning.

Kanaklata Barua was shot dead on the spot by a constable named Gogal Chipahi, becoming an immortal martyr of the Indian independence movement.

Another brave soul, Mukunda Kakaty, was also fatally injured in the same firing and died later that evening. Despite this brutal attack, the flag was eventually hoisted by Rampati Rajkhowa of Kamdewal, fulfilling their mission.

Legacy of Kanaklata Barua

The bodies of Kanaklata Barua and Mukunda Kakaty were brought back to Barangabari and cremated on the same night. Kanaklata's sacrifice has become a lasting source of inspiration for Indian women and youth, especially in Assam.

Often referred to as the "Rani Lakshmibai of Assam", Kanaklata’s courage has been compared to iconic figures like Joan of Arc and Jhansi Ki Rani, making her a legendary name in Indian history.

Tributes and Remembrance

Kanaklata Udyan, a park named in her memory, stands in Tezpur.
INS Kanaklata Barua, an Indian Coast Guard vessel, was named in her honor.
Her life continues to be celebrated in Assamese literature, songs, and plays.
Kanaklata Barua Award is given to Assamese women for exemplary service.

80+ Years Later: A Living Legacy

Over eight decades after her death, Shaheed Kanaklata Barua’s bravery continues to inspire generations. She proved that age, gender, or background cannot limit one’s love for their nation. Her selfless act of defiance stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of India's freedom fighters.

Conclusion

Shaheed Kanaklata Barua was not just a martyr—she was a movement in herself. Her sacrifice at Gohpur on 20th September 1942 remains a symbol of youthful courage, women empowerment, and national pride. Let us remember her not only as a freedom fighter but as a role model who showed that true patriotism means leading from the front—even in the face of death.