Indian Americans Gather to Honor Professor Jagmohan Singh, Nephew of Revolutionary Bhagat Singh
Over 80 distinguished Indian Americans came together at MINT Restaurant to honor Professor Jagmohan Singh, the nephew of Shaheed Bhagat Singh—the iconic freedom fighter who challenged British colonial rule in India and inspired generations to pursue independence. The event was hosted by Varinder Bhalla, Chairman and Founder of the Coalition of Indian American Associations of New York (CIONY), with support from the American Punjabi Society.
The evening opened with a short video highlighting Bhagat Singh’s life and legacy. Originally produced in 2010 by Dr. Riti Sunshine Bhalla while she was a high school student, the segment was scripted and produced by Varinder Bhalla and broadcast across multiple channels in the United States and Europe. The video featured appearances from U.S. Congress members, Senators, and Governors, underscoring its historical significance.
Event sponsor Harry Singh Bolla, hailing from a village near Bhagat Singh’s ancestral home, shared a heartfelt keynote about how Bhagat Singh’s legacy has influenced his own life.
Professor Jagmohan Singh, son of Bhagat Singh’s younger sister Bibi Amar Kaur, delivered a deeply personal address, recounting his lifelong dedication to preserving his uncle’s ideals. Through his efforts, Bhagat Singh’s story continues to inspire new generations.
During his speech, Singh recalled meeting several of Bhagat Singh’s close associates who fought for India’s freedom. He shared emotional memories of Bhagat Singh’s final days, including intimate conversations with his parents and the remarkable courage he displayed facing the gallows.
In a moving revelation, Professor Singh spoke about his mother’s imprisonment for participating in the independence movement, and how he, as a one-year-old, spent a year in jail with her.
The event concluded with a lively question-and-answer session led by Varinder Bhalla. Among the most touching moments was when Professor Singh described Bhagat Singh’s thoughts in his final hours and the ideological differences with his father, who had sought clemency. His responses left the audience inspired and profoundly moved.
