Folk Songs That Fueled India’s Freedom StruggleFolk Songs That Fueled India’s Freedom StruggleDEPANSHU SHARMAImage Source: freepik.comFolk songs were powerful tools in India’s freedom struggle, carrying messages of unity, courage, and resistance to even the remotest villages“Vande Mataram” — penned by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee — became a Swadeshi anthem, sung in folk styles to ignite nationalist spirit“Bande Utkala Janani” — written by Laxmikanta Mohapatra — united Odias under leaders like Gopabandhu Das, rallying pride in language and culture“Raghupati Raghava Raja Ram” — adapted by Mahatma Gandhi — spread non-violence and faith, sung during marches to bring people together“Pagri Sambhal Jatta,” a Punjabi folk protest song, inspired by Ajit Singh, urging farmers to defend their dignity against British exploitation“Sarfaroshi Ki Tamanna” — penned by Bismil Azimabadi, sung by revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh — became a battle cry for sacrificeINA-inspired folk marches echoed “Chalo Dilli”, motivating villagers to support Subhas Chandra Bose’s vision of a free IndiaTribal songs of Santhal, Gond, and Bhil uprisings — celebrating leaders like Birsa Munda — carried oral histories of defianceThese songs weren’t just music — they were the heartbeat of a nation’s fight for freedom, uniting millions in hope and courage