Did Bhagat Singh Really Commend Muslim Rulers as the Best Rulers India Ever Had?

The recent claims by YouTuber Wali Rahmani shed a new light on the famous Indian revolutionary's final words before his execution. Contrary to common belief, Bhagat Singh, a key figure in the Indian independence movement, reportedly praised the Mughals and Muslim rulers as the best rulers India ever had. This statement, however, is met with skepticism due to the historical context and the stance that the nationalist leaders and activists of the time had against foreign rule.

History and Context

Bhagat Singh is a iconic figure in Indian history, a revolutionary who fought against British colonial rule and was executed in 1931. His words and actions have been studied and celebrated for their bravery and dedication to an independent India. The controversy around Wali Rahmani's claim revolves around a quote attributed to Bhagat Singh, which is: "Before Bhagat Singh was hanged, he told the British that Mughals and Muslim rulers were the best rulers India ever had."

The Controversial Quote

According to Groover Groover's account, when questioned by a British officer about the long rule of Muslims and the British in India, Bhagat Singh replied, "These people ruled you for 800 years but you never threw bomb on them. We ruled you for just 150 years and you hurled bomb at us. But they ruled our country and made our country 'golden bird' and you ruled our country and looted everything."

This statement by Bhagat Singh reveals his complex thoughts on the rulers of India. It highlights the distinction between the Mughals and Muslim rulers, who Bhagat Singh acknowledged for their contributions to Indian culture and civilization, and the oppressive nature of British colonial rule.

Historical Analysis

The notion that Bhagat Singh would glorify Muslim rulers as the best rulers of India goes against the prevailing narratives of the period. The Indian nationalist leaders and revolutionaries of the time were united in their opposition to both British and Mughal rule. The term 'Golden Bird' used by Bhagat Singh refers to a famous Mughal Persian poem, 'Gulzar-i-Ishq,' where a hen (representing the Mughals) and a peacock (representing Indians) are compared, symbolizing cultural assimilation and prosperity under Mughal rule.

Historically, the Mughal Empire, while having periods of cultural flourishment, was also marred by oppression, especially towards the lower castes and religions. Similarly, while the British are remembered for their brutal oppression, significant contributions in areas such as education, infrastructure, and technology were also noted. However, the revolutionary leaders of the time, including Bhagat Singh, were more focused on the oppressive nature of both these overlords.

Personal Interpretation

Bhagat Singh's statement could be interpreted from multiple angles. On one hand, it might be seen as a reflection of his deep understanding of India's rich cultural heritage and the role of various rulers in shaping it. On the other hand, it can also be seen as a calculated statement to highlight the superiority of the Mughals over the British, whose rule was marked by significant economic exploitation and political oppression.

Impact and Legacy

The impact of Bhagat Singh's final words has been far-reaching. The controversy around his supposed praise of Muslim rulers has led to renewed discussions about Indian history and the complex relationships between different rulers and their legacies. It also underscores the importance of contextualizing historical narratives and understanding the political and social dynamics of the time.

Conclusion

The claim by Wali Rahmani that Bhagat Singh commended Mughals and Muslim rulers as the best rulers of India is contentious and requires a thorough examination. While Bhagat Singh's words can be interpreted to highlight the complexity and diversity of India's history, it is crucial to consider the broader context of his and his contemporaries' struggle against colonial rule. The legacy of Bhagat Singh continues to inspire Indians, not only for his bravery but also for his unyielding commitment to freedom and justice.