Deshbhakti Diwas was observed recently, to mark the death anniversary of renowned freedom fighter, lawyer, political leader, social reformer and literary personality, Tarun Ram Phukan. 

• Every year since 2021, the Government of Assam has observed Phukan’s death anniversary (July 28) as “Desh Bhakti Diwas.”

Early Life and Education

• Tarun Ram Phukan, affectionately known as Deshbhakta (“patriot”), was born on 22 January 1877 in Assam.
• He received his early education at Cotton Collegiate School, Guwahati, and later attended Presidency College in Calcutta. 
• Pursuing legal studies further, Phukan joined the Inner Temple in London and was called to the Bar, thereafter returning to Assam to serve as a lecturer at the Earle Law College in Guwahati.

Role in India’s Independence Movement

• Phukan played a vital role in Assam’s freedom struggle. 
• A key member of the Assam Association before 1920, he was instrumental in founding the Assam branch of the Indian National Congress in 1921, serving as its first president. 
• A devoted follower of Mahatma Gandhi, he actively propagated the Non-Cooperation Movement across Assam and was imprisoned for one year in 1921.

Contributions to Public Life and Social Reform

• Beyond politics, Phukan engaged deeply in social welfare and educational reform. 
• He served as Chairman of both the Guwahati Municipal Board and the Local Board, and established a Leper Asylum in Guwahati to support the marginalized.

Literary and Intellectual Leadership

• Phukan was an accomplished orator and writer. 
• He was elected President of the Assam Sahitya Sabha during its Goalpara session in 1927 and of the Assam Chhatra Sammelan in 1928.

Legacy and Commemoration

• Remembering his lifelong commitment to the nation, the Government of Assam observes Desh Bhakti Divas, observed annually in his honour. 
• These commemorations continue across Assam through tributes, speeches, and public events, paying homage to his enduring legacy.

One-line Wrap:

Desh Bhakti Diwas honours Deshbhakta Tarun Ram Phukan’s invaluable contributions to India’s freedom struggle, nation-building, social reform and the awakening of Assamese identity.