VOL. 27, NO. 7, September 28, 2007 (Ashwin 11 2064 B.S.)

Dr. Rajesh Gautam and Shivahar Singh Pradhan explain the contribution made by founder of All India Gurkha League Thakur Chandan Singh

By A CORRESPONDENT

Many people of Nepalese origin have made contributions to the political movements in India. Thakur Chandan  Sigh, founder of all India Gurkha League, is one of them.

From recognizing Nepal's own identity to carrying out other social campaigns, this man made great contributions but only a few people have made efforts to highlight his contributions and role in promoting Nepali literature and culture in India.

Based on in-depth study and research, the book on Thakur Chandan Singh reveals many important historical events that have taken place in India. By establishing All India Gurkha League, Thakur organized Indians of Nepali origin living in different parts of India.

Written by Professor Dr. Rajesh Gautam and Shivahar Singh Pradhan 'Pagal', this book also highlights various phases of India's struggle for independence and other political and constitutional development.     

Born in Deharadun of India, Thakur Chandan Singh served in various positions in India. From lawyer to soldier, Thakur Chandan Singh participated as an activist for Indian independence. As a follower of Mahatma Gandhi, Thakur Chandan Singh was also put into prison for his role in Quit India movement.

Although he is an Indian citizen of Nepali origin, Thakur Chandan Singh supported Nepalese political parties to overthrow Rana regime. Thakur Chandan Singh argued that Nepal needed constitutional monarchy. He demanded this in 1928 - long before the revolution of 1950.

Along with generating political, social, literary and other awareness among Indian Nepalis, Thakur Chandan Singh also made similar efforts to generate awareness among Nepalis who were living under an autocratic Rana regime.

From publishing newspapers in India in Nepali language, Thakur Chandan Singh held several positions in Indian National Congress and fought against British rule. He also made contribution to raise living condition of Indians of Nepali origin.

The book is not only about the contributions and sacrifices of Thakur Chandan Singh but is also full of documents and other materials related to the history of Nepalis of Indian origin. Published by All India Nepali Language Committee Dehardudn, Uttaranchal India, this book is very interesting to read for scholars as well as Nepalis living all over the world.

Thanks to the efforts made by Dr. Gautam and Pagal, who have collected materials from various parts of India as well as Nepal, the book has documented important personality of history. The books shows that Thakur Chandan Singh was a great scholar, litterateur, and a dedicated political activist.

The book includes relevant documents and letters and other such materials giving an authentic and genuine picture of struggle of Nepalis of Indian origin.

In every society, there are some people who make such contributions, which places them in the golden annals of history. Thakur Chandan Singh is one of them.