How Abid Hasan Safrani, a Hyderabad-born INA Officer, Coined the Phrase that Became a National War Cry
From its origins as a simple salutation to its evolution into a powerful symbol of patriotism, the phrase “Jai Hind!” has become deeply embedded in the Indian consciousness. However, few are aware of its roots in Hyderabad and the extraordinary story behind its creation.
The man behind this iconic slogan is Abid Hasan Safrani, born Zain-al-Abdin Hasan in Hyderabad in 1911. Abid Hasan’s journey from the Deccan city to becoming a key figure in India’s fight for independence is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the nation.
Early Life and Education
Abid Hasan was born into a family staunchly opposed to British rule in India. His parents instilled in him a sense of duty towards his country, which would later guide his actions during the freedom struggle. Unlike many of his contemporaries who chose to pursue higher education in the United Kingdom, Abid took a different path, opting to study engineering in Germany.
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Meeting Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose
It was in Germany that Abid Hasan’s life took a decisive turn. During a meeting with Indian prisoners of war, he encountered the charismatic leader of the Indian National Army (INA), Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. Inspired by Bose’s fiery speeches and his vision for an independent India, Abid made the life-altering decision to abandon his studies and join the INA in 1941.
A Close Aide to Netaji
Abid quickly rose through the ranks of the INA, becoming a close aide to Bose. Recognizing his dedication and capabilities, Bose appointed Abid as his secretary and interpreter. It was during this time that Bose tasked him with an important mission: to create a common, secular greeting for the diverse soldiers of the INA. Bose wanted a slogan that would unify the soldiers and reflect the spirit of the freedom struggle.
The Birth of “Jai Hind!”
After some thought, Abid Hasan initially proposed the greeting “hello,” which was promptly rejected by Bose. Undeterred, he coined the phrase “Jai Hindustan ki,” which was later shortened to the more impactful “Jai Hind!” Netaji Bose immediately adopted it as the official salutation of the INA. The slogan quickly gained popularity among the freedom fighters and became a unifying cry during India’s struggle for independence.
The phrase “Jai Hind!” transcended the INA and became synonymous with Indian nationalism. It was later immortalized by Jawaharlal Nehru in his historic “Tryst with Destiny” speech on the night of India’s independence in 1947. The slogan, once a greeting among soldiers, had become a symbol of the nation’s collective identity and pride.
Life After Independence
Following India’s independence and the partition, Abid Hasan adopted the name “Safrani,” a symbolic gesture towards communal harmony in a time of deep religious division. He continued his service to the newly independent nation by joining the Indian Foreign Service. Abid Safrani represented India with distinction, eventually retiring as the Ambassador to Denmark in 1969.
Abid Hasan Safrani returned to his roots in Hyderabad, where he lived out the rest of his life. He passed away in 1984, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with the very spirit of India’s independence.
Legacy
Today, “Jai Hind!” resonates as a powerful expression of patriotism, echoing in schools, public gatherings, and military parades across the nation. The phrase, born from the vision of a Hyderabad-born freedom fighter, continues to inspire millions of Indians.
Abid Hasan Safrani’s contribution to India’s freedom struggle and his role in creating one of the most iconic slogans of the country remains a source of pride, especially for the people of Hyderabad, where his journey began.
In remembering Abid Hasan Safrani, we honor not just the man, but the enduring legacy of “Jai Hind!”—a phrase that encapsulates the hope, resilience, and unity of India.
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