Major Durga Malla, the first Gorkha soldier in the Indian National Army (INA), devoted his life to India's independence. Born in July 1913 in Doiwala near Dehradun, he was the eldest son of Nb Sub Ganga Malla. At the age of 15, he was inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's Dandi March, which sparked his vocal opposition to British rule. By 18, he had joined the 2/1 Gorkha Rifles in Dharamshala, aligning himself with the INA under Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose by 1942. His exceptional skills and dedication earned him the rank of Major and a vital role in intelligence operations.
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On March 27, 1944, while gathering enemy information, Malla was captured near Kohima. Tried and sentenced to death at the Red Fort in New Delhi, he faced coercion from authorities to confess his rebellion. Even under immense pressure, including the presence of his wife Sharda, whom he had married just three days before being recalled to duty, Malla remained resolute. His final words to her emphasized his faith in India's future: "The sacrifice I am offering shall not go in vain. India will be free."
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| At Kalimpong |
Malla was executed on August 25, 1944, a date now observed as Balidan Diwas (Martyrs' Day) by Gorkhas across India. In 2004, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh unveiled a statue honouring him at the Parliament House Complex, with dignitaries in attendance. Additional statues have been erected in Garidhura village and in front of the Darjeeling Municipality.
In a further tribute to his legacy, India Post issued a commemorative stamp on January 23, 2023, celebrating Major Durga Malla's contributions to India's liberation. His life inspires us, reminding us of the sacrifices made for freedom.
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