Andhra pradesh freedom fighters : Manyam veerudu Alluri Sita Rama Raju

Alluri Sitarama Raju was a prominent freedom fighter from Andhra Pradesh who played a significant role in the Indian independence movement, particularly during the early 20th century. He is best known for his leadership in the Rampa Rebellion (1922–1924), which aimed to resist British colonial rule and their exploitation of tribal communities in the eastern parts of Andhra Pradesh.

 

Early Life and Background 

Alluri Sitarama Raju was born on July 4, 1897, in Pandrangi, a village in the Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh. He was born into a well-to-do family and received a good education, but he was deeply moved by the poverty and oppression faced by the tribal people under British rule. Despite having a background that would have allowed him a comfortable life, he was drawn towards the nationalist movement and soon began working to resist the British. 

The Rampa Rebellion (1922–1924) 

The Rampa Rebellion, also known as the Manyam Rebellion, was a significant anti-colonial struggle led by Alluri Sitarama Raju. The rebellion was primarily a reaction to the oppressive laws and harsh taxes imposed on the tribal communities by the British. Under British rule, forest laws restricted the traditional ways of life of the tribals, curbing their rights to use forest resources and forcing them into labor for the colonial administration. Sitarama Raju, who was also known as "Manyam Veerudu" (Hero of the Forest), inspired and mobilized the tribals, especially the Koyas, to take up arms against the British. He believed in armed resistance and is said to have acquired guerilla warfare skills to combat the British forces effectively. His knowledge of the local terrain enabled him to organize successful ambushes and raids on police stations to seize arms and ammunition. Alluri Sitarama Raju led numerous attacks on police stations in the Eastern Ghats region as part of the Rampa Rebellion (1922-1924). His aim was to seize weapons and disrupt British control over the tribal areas in Andhra Pradesh. 

Here are some of the prominent police stations he attacked: Chintapalli Police Station: This was one of the first and most significant attacks led by Sitarama Raju. He and his followers raided the police station, seized weapons, and destroyed British property. This attack marked the beginning of the Rampa Rebellion and set the tone for further assaults. 

Krishna Devi Peta Police Station: Following the success at Chintapalli, Raju's group targeted the Krishna Devi Peta police station. The raid was carried out in a similar manner, focusing on capturing arms and ammunition. 

Rajavommangi Police Station: This police station was also raided by Raju's followers. The ambushes and raids on police stations like Rajavommangi helped to spread fear among the British authorities, who realized the extent of local support Raju had gathered. 

Addateegala Police Station: Raju’s forces targeted this station to further expand their access to firearms and ammunition, as their guerrilla warfare relied heavily on capturing British weapons.

Rampachodavaram Police Station: This was another key attack where Raju and his rebels struck against British forces. By attacking Rampachodavaram, he strengthened the rebellion’s presence in the region. These strategic attacks on police stations allowed Raju to build an armed resistance force and establish himself as a formidable leader of the tribal rebellion. Each attack added to the morale of his followers and served as a reminder of his commitment to the cause of tribal rights and independence from British rule. 

Ideology and Influence 

Raju was greatly inspired by the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, especially the principles of Swaraj (self-rule) and non-cooperation with the British. However, unlike Gandhi, Raju believed that violence was sometimes necessary to achieve freedom. His approach was a unique combination of Gandhian principles and armed resistance, which made him an iconic figure in the tribal areas of Andhra Pradesh.

Capture and Execution 

The Rampa Rebellion gained significant momentum under Raju’s leadership, and he became a target for the British authorities. The British deployed a massive force to capture him and suppress the rebellion. After two years of guerrilla warfare, Alluri Sitarama Raju was finally captured in 1924. He was executed by the British on May 7, 1924, in Koyyuru village, which marked the end of the Rampa Rebellion. 

Legacy 

Alluri Sitarama Raju is celebrated as a martyr and a symbol of resistance against colonial oppression. His bravery and selflessness continue to inspire generations in Andhra Pradesh and across India. Several statues, monuments, and institutions have been established in his honor, and he is remembered every year on his birth and death anniversaries. In 1986, the Indian government issued a commemorative stamp in his honor. 

His life and legacy are a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in the struggle for India’s independence, particularly by those who stood up for the rights of the most marginalized communities.