‘Swadeshi’ was the Driving Force of Raja Shankar Shah and Kunwar Raghunath Shah’s Struggle against the British: CM Dr. Yadav

Bhopal, Sept 2025 : Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav said that the ‘Swadeshi’ was the inspiring instinct of the freedom struggle waged by the immortal martyrs Raja Shankar Shah and Kunwar Raghunath Shah against the British. The pledge was that India must have its own governance and laws; inspired by these tribal heroes, it was these that led them to resist foreign rule. They never bowed before the British. Father and son, Raja Shankar Shah and Raghunath Shah, fought with a single goal and laid down their lives, achieving immortality. The state government has developed its place of sacrifice as a memorial. Committed to their culture, Raja Shankar Shah always stood firm on his values.

CM Dr. Yadav was addressing an event on the 168th Sacrifice Day of Raja Shankar Shah and Kunwar Raghunath Shah at the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Convention Centre, Jabalpur, on Thursday. He offered floral tributes to the two immortal martyrs.

Never Bowed Before the British Till the Martyrdom

The Chief Minister said that both father and son upheld the legacy of Rani Durgavati and raised their voices against the British through poetry. They composed songs to protect forests, land, and the nation. Unable to tolerate their rebellion, the British committed an act of cowardice by blowing them up with cannons without any trial. The British had offered them release if they accepted conversion, submission, and apology, but both bravely refused, declaring that even if they survived the cannon fire, they would once again write songs of rebellion against foreign rule. CM Dr. Yadav said that birth and death come once in every life, but those who sacrifice themselves for the nation become immortal. Raja Shankar Shah and Kunwar Raghunath Shah are such martyrs whose sacrifice continues to inspire us in serving and protecting the nation. Remembering these Gondwana martyrs in the holy city of Maa Narmada, I too feel proud, he added.

‘Swadeshi’ is the Path to a Developed India

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the campaign to adopt ‘Swadeshi’ is progressing. The path to a developed India passes through ‘Swadeshi’. In Madhya Pradesh, women have set an extraordinary example of self-reliance through self-help groups, while our villages have always reflected the best models of self-sufficient economies. CM Dr. Yadav urged people to adopt ‘Swadeshi’ in daily life with the call, “Say with pride, we will adopt Swadeshi.”

Jabalpur’s Soil Enriched with the Martyrdom of Tribal Heroes

CM Dr. Yadav said that since ancient times, Mahakaushal has been the land of heroes like Raja Shankar Shah, Raghunath Shah, and Rani Durgavati. The soil of Jabalpur has been enriched with the blood of tribal warriors. The indomitable courage and supreme sacrifice of the Shah dynasty remain a source of inspiration for all. The martyrs who laid down their lives at the feet of Mother India can never be forgotten. Their sacrifice will continue to kindle the sacred flame of patriotism in generations to come.

‘Swastha Nari, Sashakta Parivar’ Campaign

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi sanctified the tribal region of  Dhar by celebrating his birthday in Madhya Pradesh. Both the Union and the State governments are committed to tribal welfare. On this occasion, Prime Minister Modi also gifted the PM Mitra Park to the state’s cotton farmers.

CM Dr. Yadav emphasised that there is no shortage of funds for the health of mothers, sisters, and daughters. Their honor and well-being are our topmost priority. Early diagnosis can save lives, and hence, women must come forward for health check-ups under the ‘Swastha Nari, Sashakta Parivar’campaign. Along with this, the state has also pledged a campaign for cleanliness.

Observed Exhibition of ‘Swadeshi’ Products

During Seva Pakhwada, Chief Minister Dr. Yadav also visited an exhibition of Swadeshi products at the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Cultural and Information Centre in Jabalpur. He encouraged the self-help groups, especially the “Lakhpati Didis,” for their hand-made products and even sipped tea served in a traditional earthen cup.

The exhibition was organized by the District Panchayat, District Industry Centre, Municipal Corporation, and Smart City under the theme “Steps towards Self-Reliance through Swadeshi Products.” CM Dr. Yadav appreciated the initiative and called for its expansion to promote wider use of Swadeshi products and self-reliance.

On this occasion, PWD Minister Shri Rakesh Singh expressed gratitude to all guests. Member of Parliament Shri Ashish Dubey, Rajya Sabha MP Smt. Sumitra Valmiki, MLA, Dr. Abhilash Pandey, MLA, Shri Ashok Rohani, Mayor, Shri Jagat Bahadur Singh ‘Annu Bhaiya’, public representatives, and citizens were present.