BAL GANGADHAR TILAK

A National Leader

It was Deepavali in 1898; Tilak was released from jail. The joy of the people was beyond words. There were illumina- tions and fireworks everywhere. There was a heavy rush of people to have 'darshan' of Tilak. He was taken in a procession through the main streets of Pune.

People shed tears of joy. Mothers and children worshipped Tilak's portrait in their homes by lighting incense and camphor.

Tilak, who was a regional leader, now became the national leader. Every Indian's heart was filled with reverence for Tilak.

His sufferings in the jail had made him very weak. His eyes were sunken and thebones in the cheeks protruded. But after his release in a few days his health improved.

[ Back ] [ Up ] [ Next ]