K. Bashyam

K. Bashyam (26 January 1907 – 1999), also known by his pen name Arya was an Indian freedom fighter and artist who participated in the Indian independence movement and later contributed to the field of art.

Early life Bashyam was born on 26 January 1907 to Kuppuswami Ayyangar and Shenbaga Lakshmi Amma in Serangulam.

Contribution in Indian independence movement His early engagement with the Indian independence movement began in 1919 when he attended a meeting opposing the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

On 26 January 1932, Bashyam gained recognition for hoisting the Congress flag atop the wireless broadcasting pole at Fort St. George in Madras (now Chennai), an act of defiance against British rule during the period of intensified government repression following Gandhi’s declaration of Independence Day. This act led to his arrest and imprisonment, during which he met Subhas Chandra Bose. He sculpted busts and statues of prominent figures, including Mahatma Gandhi, one of which is located at Thakkar Bapa Vidyalaya in Chennai.

Death and legacy K. Bashyam died in 1999. Bashyam refused to accept the pension doled out to freedom fighters after Independence. This day is celebrated annually to honor the sacrifices of freedom fighters like Bashyam.

A special cover commemorating Bashyam was released on 13 August 2022 during the Sipa Amritpex 2022 event held in Chennai.