Lucknow: Defence Minister and Lucknow MP Rajnath Singh paid a powerful tribute to 1857 freedom fighter Veerangna Uda Devi Pasi, calling her courage “unmatched and immortal” as he and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath unveiled her statue on Sunday during Pasi Swabhiman Diwas.
Uda Devi: A Symbol of Fearless Patriotism
Rajnath Singh recalled how Uda Devi, after losing her husband Makka Pasi in the battle against the British, took up arms with unshakable determination.
She single-handedly killed 36 British soldiers, becoming an enduring symbol of valour.
He said British officer Captain Dawson is believed to have removed his hat in respect before her mortal remains — a gesture that reflects her extraordinary bravery.
“Her Life Teaches Self-Respect and Women’s Empowerment”
The Defence Minister said Uda Devi challenged not only British rule but also a social system that had marginalized her community.
“Her story proves that courage and patriotism are not defined by caste or class,” Rajnath Singh said.
He added that Uda Devi mobilized Dalit women to join the armed struggle and that her legacy lives on today through the women serving in India’s armed forces — from Siachen to Operation Sindoor.
Honouring the Legacy of the Pasi Community
Rajnath Singh highlighted the patriotic spirit of the Pasi community, noting that historically they were known as “sword-wielders.”
He referred to ancient texts and cultural traditions to emphasize –
- compassion
- courage
- duty
He said that the Pasi Empire and its kings — including Maharaja Bijli Pasi, Maharaja Suheldev, Maharaja Lakhan Pasi, and others — were not given their rightful place in Indian history by previous governments and leftist historians.
Yogi Government’s Initiatives to Revive Forgotten Heroes
The Defence Minister praised the Uttar Pradesh government for including Pasi icons in school curricula and constructing grand memorials, including:
- The Suheldev Memorial in Bahraich
- The Bijli Pasi Memorial under construction in Lucknow
He said Prime Minister Modi has strengthened the representation of tribal, Dalit, and backward communities and promoted their historical identities through initiatives like –
- Tribal Pride Day
- Development of Ambedkar’s Panch Teerth
“Politics Must Be About Nation-Building, Not Power”
Rajnath Singh emphasized that welfare schemes for marginalized communities are only meaningful when guided by social justice.
He said both the Centre and the Uttar Pradesh government have expanded services for SC, ST, OBC, and disadvantaged groups over the past 11 years, aiming to eliminate discrimination and bring every citizen into the mainstream of development.
Uda Devi’s Statue Will Inspire Future Generations: Brajesh Pathak
Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak said the statue will inspire children, youth, and women and reinforce the community’s pride.
“If We Lose Our Identity, Future Generations Will Question Us”: Kamlesh Paswan
Union Minister Kamlesh Paswan underscored the importance of preserving the Pasi community’s history, calling Uda Devi’s sacrifice a “shining chapter” in Indian history.
He urged the inclusion of community icons such as Uda Devi, Maharaja Bijli Pasi, Lakhan Pasi, Madari Pasi, Raja Mahe Pasi, and Raja Suheldev Pasi in school curricula so children recognize their legacy.
