Independence Day: Assam man keeps father’s 1942 freedom struggle memories alive

On the eve of Independence Day, the son of a freedom fighter in Assam's Kaliabor has taken a unique initiative to preserve the memories of his father and the Quit India Movement by carefully cleaning and preserving the clothes he wore during the 1942 freedom struggle.

As memories of India's freedom movement and the sacrifices of freedom fighters gradually fade from public memory, Muruli Bora, son of late Tamra Patra recipient and freedom fighter Bhabiram Bora, has taken steps to preserve a tangible link to that historic period.

Bhabiram Bora, a resident of Hatbor's Dhatkata village in Kaliabor, had participated in the 1942 Quit India Movement and served as a leader of the 'Shanti Sena' during the struggle.

The khadi dhoti and shirt worn by Bora during the freedom movement have been preserved by his son as a reminder of his father's contribution and the sacrifices made during India's struggle for independence.

Bhabiram Bora was imprisoned in Jorhat and Silchar jails for his participation in the freedom movement.

He passed away in 1997.

Muruli Bora's effort to preserve his father's clothes is also aimed at keeping alive the memory of the 1942 movement for younger generations at a time when the history and significance of the Quit India Movement and India's independence struggle are increasingly distant from their everyday lives.