Pandit Sundarlal Sharma
पंडित सुन्दरलाल शर्मा जी
Life Motto
"Do not move away from truth in life or death."
About Pandit Sundarlal Sharma
Pandit Sundarlal Sharma was born on 21st December 1881 at "Chamshur", a small village near Rajim in the Raipur district of Chhattisgarh. He was among the forefront of freedom fighters who championed the cause of social justice, equality, and non-violence.
Deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi's programme for alleviating the plight of the marginalized and untouchables, social reform remained a lifelong aim of Pandit Sharma. He established ashrams, girls' schools for the upliftment of Harijans, and orphanages, leaving an indelible mark on the socio-political landscape of Chhattisgarh.
Major Contributions & Achievements
Smitra Mandal
Founded "Smitra Mandal" at his birthplace to promote and sell indigenous goods (Swadeshi), empowering the local economy early in the movement.
Political Awakening
Instrumental in founding the Political Council at Dhamtari (1918) and organizing the district-level conference in 1919 to unite regional political voices.
Gandhi's Visit to Chhattisgarh
In 1921, he brought Mahatma Gandhi to Chhattisgarh. Impressed by his work, Gandhiji honored Pt. Sharma by referring to him as his "Political Master" in the region.
Canal Satyagraha (1929)
Initiated the historic 'Canal Satyagraha' in Kandel village, significantly boosting political consciousness and resistance against oppressive policies.
Literary & Poetic Scholar
A keen learner of multiple languages, he started writing poetry at age 13 and became a prominent literary scholar in Rajim by the age of twenty.
Social Reformer
Fought endlessly against casteism, untouchability, and economic exploitation, dedicated to elevating backward classes to equal social status.
Life Timeline
Birth in Chamshur
Born on 21st December at Chamshur village near Rajim, Raipur district.
Political Leadership
Established Political Council in Dhamtari and organized the district-level conference.
First Arrest & National Leadership
Brought Mahatma Gandhi to Raipur. Was arrested in 1921-22, recorded as the first arrest in Chhattisgarh related to the freedom movement.
Canal Satyagraha
Led the civil resistance movement at Kandel village, Dhamtari.
Legacy Left Behind
Passed away in 1940, leaving a legacy as the "Gandhi of Chhattisgarh".
University Naming & Honor
As a mark of respect and deep gratitude to this great freedom fighter and social activist, the University—Pandit Sundarlal Sharma (Open) University Chhattisgarh, Bilaspur—was named after him. The institution strives to propagate his teachings, cherishing the values of truth, equality, and social harmony for which he stood throughout his life.