Sewa Singh Thikriwala Memorial

January 21, 2025

January 20 commemorates the death of Sewa Singh Thikriwala, a very important figure in the Praja Mandal movement advocating for self-rule in Punjab. He died in 1935 during a hunger strike while imprisoned. His legacy is celebrated annually from January 18 to 20 in his village, where a memorial event takes place.

Background of Sewa Singh

Sewa Singh Thikriwala was born in the late 19th century in Thikriwala village, Punjab. He was the son of Dewa Singh, a court official. Initially a health officer, he left his position to join the Singh Sabha movement, which countered British influence and Christian proselytism.

The Singh Sabha Movement

The Singh Sabha movement emerged in response to British annexation of the Sikh Empire. It focused on religious reform, promoting Gurmukhi education and traditional Sikh marriage practices. Sewa Singh played important role in organising Gurmukhi classes in Gurdwaras.

Praja Mandal Movement

The Praja Mandal movement aimed to secure civil liberties, protest oppressive taxation, and demand government reforms. It was active across 600 princely states, particularly in the Malwa region, which remains politically .

Imprisonment and Hunger Strike

Sewa Singh was imprisoned multiple times for his activism. After his release in 1928, he continued to participate in the Praja Mandal. In 1934, he began a hunger strike in protest of his treatment in jail, ultimately leading to his death.

Annual Memorial Events

The memorial for Sewa Singh Thikriwala includes a Nagar Kirtan, seminars, and lectures. A statue of him stands in Thikriwala village. Recent memorials have attracted political figures, including promises for local development and educational improvements.

Current Developments

In 2023, Punjab’s Finance Minister announced upgrades to local schools and the establishment of a nursing college in Thikriwala. Plans were also revealed to convert Sewa Singh’s dilapidated house into a memorial site, preserving his legacy for future generations.

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