List of Books and Biographies on India's Freedom Fighters

The struggle for Indian freedom was waged not just on the streets and in jails and battles but also documented via books, autobiographies, essays, newspaper reports and historical writings. Freedom fighter and historian writings give us an idea of the philosophies, sacrifices, political movements and social factors that brought about the freedom of India in 1947.

From the Gandhian philosophy of nonviolence, to the views of Nehru on India’s history, and Bhagat Singh and Subhas Chandra Bose, we have diverse writings that tell us different routes followed during the struggle for freedom.

Books and Biographies of India’s Freedom Fighters

1. India Wins Freedom – Maulana Abul Kalam Azad

India Wins Freedom is an interesting first-hand account of the last phase of the freedom struggle of India. India Wins Freedom was authored by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad who was one of the prominent leaders of the Indian National Congress. This book throws light on political changes which finally led to India’s independence and Partition.

It is especially relevant for people who wish to know the views of Azad and other political leaders of the crucial period prior to 1947.

2. The Discovery of India – Jawaharlal Nehru

The Discovery of India was authored by Jawaharlal Nehru during his imprisonment in 1944. The book delves into the ancient civilization of India, the history, culture, philosophy and growth of India as a nation.

It is not only a biography of India’s freedom struggle but also includes the interpretation of India and its identity throughout history. It is one of the most significant literary works related to Indian national movement.

3. My Experiments with Truth – Mahatma Gandhi

My Experiments with Truth is the autobiography of Mahatma Gandhi which provides the account of his personal experience and intellectual progress.

This book describes the development of Gandhi’s philosophy of truth, non-violence, morality and Satyagraha. It is especially relevant for those who wish to understand the principles on which he based his leadership during the freedom struggle of India.

4. Freedom at Midnight – Larry Collins and Dominique Lapierre

Freedom at Midnight is a thorough chronicle of the last year of British rule in India.

It deals with the events which preceded Independence and Partition of 1947 and describes prominent personalities like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Lord Mountbatten. It also discusses the immense consequences for humanity associated with Partition.

5. India’s Struggle for Independence – Bipan Chandra

India’s Struggle for Independence is authored by Bipan Chandra and other historians and it gives a complete account of the Indian national movement.

This book talks about the freedom struggle of India which started with the revolt of 1857 and ended in its freedom in 1947. It deals with important events like the Swadeshi Movement, Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement and Quit India Movement.

6. His Majesty’s Opponent – Sugata Bose

His Majesty’s Opponent is an extensive biography of Subhas Chandra Bose that was penned down by Sugata Bose, the historian.

In this biography, we learn about the politics and activities of Bose, his differences with the Congress leaders, his activities overseas and his involvement in the setting up of the Indian National Army (INA).

Thus, the book provides us with an insightful look at the revolutionary and military aspects of the freedom struggle of India.

7. Why I Am an Atheist – Bhagat Singh

Why I Am an Atheist is one of the famous essays by the great revolutionary, Bhagat Singh. In this essay, the writer gives an account of his philosophical beliefs and addresses the question of faith and reason in the context of revolution.

Thus, this book helps us understand the philosophy of Bhagat Singh.

8. The Great Partition – Yasmin Khan

The Great Partition by Yasmin Khan tells us about the Partition of India in 1947 and its consequences for ordinary people.

Through this book, the reader can learn about the political background of the Partition, as well as about its effects on millions of people – displacement, violence, and social disruption.

Thus, this book helps us see the Partition of India not just as a political phenomenon, but also as a tragic human story.

9. Anandamath – Bankim Chandra Chatterjee

Anandamath is an important Bengali novel by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee. Written in the later part of the nineteenth century, this novel became closely linked to Indian nationalism.

It is important, firstly, because it includes “Vande Mataram”, which became a key symbol of the Indian national movement.

10. Gandhi: An Autobiography – The Story of My Experiments with Truth

In this book, we find a story about Gandhi’s life through his own experiences and reflections. The author describes his personal journey and the evolution of his philosophy of truth and non-violence.

Thus, for anyone interested in the role of Gandhi in the freedom struggle, this autobiography is an invaluable resource.

Books Written by Freedom Fighters Themselves

There are several famous freedom fighters who have also been prolific writers, journalists and political thinkers. Their writings reflect their perspective on colonialism, nationalism and independence movement.

Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi was one of the most important freedom fighters who used literature extensively to express his political and social ideas. Important writings and publications of Gandhi include,