Veerbala || Best Short Film of Rajasthan Award Winning || MKPP || True unsung hero freedom fighter

Summary

The script narrates the struggle for India's independence in 1947, focusing on grassroots educational movements in Rajasthan. It highlights how freedom fighters, like Shivram Bill and Nanna Bhai, defied British authorities to keep their schools open and educate children about patriotism. It also emphasizes the role of women in the freedom struggle, drawing inspiration from historic figures like Rani Lakshmibai, Begum Hazrat Mahal, and Savitribai Phule. The narrative showcases the resolve of people in the face of oppression and the empowerment of women in a male-dominated society.

Takeaways

• 🇮🇳 The script highlights the period around 1947 when freedom fighters and patriots in India ran informal schools to instill patriotism and fight social injustices.
• 🏫 Shivram Bil operated a school in Poonwa village near Dungarpur, Rajasthan, which was targeted by British officials for closure in June 1947.
• 👮 Despite orders from the district magistrate Zaveri Lal Chowbisa, Shivram Bil refused to close the school and was beaten and arrested along with 38 others.
• 👨‍🏫 Nana Bhai Khat, a freedom fighter, also ran a school in Rasthapal village, refusing to shut it down despite pressure from the British and local rulers.
• 🪓 Bhagat Singh's bravery and sacrifice at the young age of 23, including his actions to avenge Lala Lajpat Rai and being executed for the Lahore conspiracy case, serve as inspiration for many.
• 👧 The script emphasizes the influence of freedom fighter stories on the youth, particularly on a girl named Kali who aspired to fight against British rule.
• 💪 Stories of brave women like Rani Lakshmi Bai, Begum Hazrat Mahal, Savitribai Phule, and others are highlighted as inspirations for women to stand up for their rights.
• 👩‍🏫 The message emphasizes the importance of educating girls, quoting Savitribai Phule’s words that educating a girl educates an entire family.
• ✊ Kali is inspired by her guru’s teachings and decides to fight for the country, regardless of her gender, rejecting traditional gender roles.
• 🗣️ The British government and local rulers tried to stop the Rasthapal school, but the village stood strong, refusing to attend a public gathering meant to shut the school down.

Q & A

What was the purpose of the schools run by freedom fighters during the British colonial period?

The purpose of the schools run by freedom fighters was to instill patriotism, moral values, and the spirit of standing up against social injustices in children. These schools also aimed to educate children to oppose British rule and societal evils.

Who was Shivram Bill and what role did he play in the script?

Shivram Bill was a teacher running a school in the village of Punwa near Dungarpur in 1947. He defied the British orders to shut down his school, leading to his arrest and brutal beating by British authorities.

What actions did the British authorities take against those opposing them in Punwa village?

The British authorities, led by District Magistrate Zaverilal Choubisa, demolished the school in Punwa, arrested 38 protestors, and imprisoned them in Dungarpur jail as a punishment for opposing British rule.

Who was Nana Bhai Khat, and what was his role in the freedom struggle?

Nana Bhai Khat was a freedom fighter who ran a school in Rashta Pal village. He took a vow to keep the school open as a form of resistance against British rule, declaring that the school would not be closed as long as he was alive.

What was the significance of Bhagat Singh's execution in the script?

Bhagat Singh’s execution was highlighted as a moment of deep sacrifice for the nation. His actions, along with Rajguru and Sukhdev, were seen as acts of defiance against British rule, and their martyrdom inspired many to continue the struggle for independence.

How did the stories of Indian female freedom fighters influence Kaliya, the young Bhil girl?

Kaliya was inspired by the stories of brave women like Rani Lakshmibai, Begum Hazrat Mahal, and Savitribai Phule, which were narrated by her teacher, Singa Bhai. These stories motivated her to fight against British rule, even though she was a girl.

What message did Savitribai Phule convey about the importance of educating girls?

Savitribai Phule emphasized that educating a boy educates an individual, but educating a girl educates an entire family. Her efforts were crucial in raising awareness about women's empowerment and challenging societal norms.

What was the response of the Rashta Pal villagers to the British authorities' attempts to shut down the school?

When the British District Magistrate attempted to shut down the Rashta Pal school, the villagers refused to attend a public meeting organized by the authorities, showing their defiance and support for the school.

What challenge did Kaliya face regarding gender roles, and how did she respond to it?

Kaliya faced societal pressure that girls should only focus on household work and not take part in larger societal roles. However, she was determined to break free from these gender norms and fight for her country, inspired by the stories of heroic women.

What was Nana Bhai's perspective on when true revolution would begin?

Nana Bhai believed that the true revolution would begin when girls understood that their empowerment and strength were more important than merely fulfilling traditional gender roles. He emphasized the importance of women's liberation as key to social change.