Comparative Study of the Contributions of Lala Lajpat Rai and Lala Har Dayal: Direction and Impact on the Indian Freedom Struggle

Abstract

This research paper presents a comparative study of the contributions of Lala Lajpat Rai and Lala Har Dayal, analyzing their perspectives and strategies. Lala Lajpat Rai viewed the Indian freedom struggle as a constitutional and peaceful movement. He inspired Indians to organize constitutionally against the British Empire and played a significant role in spreading education, social reform, and political awareness. Conversely, Lala Har Dayal adopted a more revolutionary approach. He founded the Ghadar Party and presented the Indian freedom struggle as an armed conflict and a global movement. He believed that the struggle should not be confined to India alone but must be expanded internationally. The contributions of both leaders were immensely important for the Indian freedom struggle, yet their perspectives and methods of operation were distinct. Lala Lajpat Rai advocated a path of peaceful and constitutional struggle, while Lala Har Dayal prioritized armed conflict and a global perspective. Their differing viewpoints profoundly impacted the direction and effect of the Indian freedom struggle.