Hidden Treasures and Personalities of Dahod District

The big stories often make the headlines of our historical narratives, but history is not only about the landmark events - it finds shape and character in the myriad events that led up to a flashpoint of change. An attempt to discover and document stories of people, events, and places linked to the freedom struggle of India at the micro level of the district has led to the creation of a Digital District Repository. Stories in this section can be broadly classified under - People & Personalities and Hidden treasures.

Calcutta Favourite Cabin

Gadi Fort, located in the Dahod district, holds significant historical significance as it witnessed the struggles and sacrifices made during the British period in India. In that era, the British occupied the fort and established the Mamlatdar office there. However, the fort would later become a symbol of resistance against British rule during the Quit India movement.

In 1942, during the nationwide Quit India movement, a brave young soul named Priyavadanbhai Desai scaled the walls of Gadi Fort and unfurled the Indian flag as a powerful act of defiance. This act of courage did not go unnoticed by the British authorities, who ly arrested him and sentenced him to 15 months in prison along with a fine of 30 rupees.

The fort's association with the freedom struggle extends beyond this incident. Dahod district's contribution to India's freedom struggle remains remarkable, with its people showing unwavering determination and commitment to the cause of independence. The stories of sacrifice and heroism from this region have been commemorated in the government gazette and continue to inspire generations.

Priyavadanbhai Desai

Priyavadanbhai Desai, a remarkable figure in the freedom struggle, resided in the Amritwadi Society in Dahod. He was born on July 30, 1930, in Dahod, Gujarat. He actively participated in the freedom struggle from his student days. Even during his early years, he possessed revolutionary ideas.

During the nationwide Quit India Movement against British rule, at the tender age of 12, he felt a strong desire to contribute to the liberation of his country. He held immense pride in the Indian flag, considering it the symbol of his nation's honor and the identity of an independent India. Displaying immense bravery, he climbed the fort of Gadi and proudly waved the Indian flag, symbolically challenging the oppressive British regime. This act of defiance led to his sentencing to 15 months and one day of rigorous imprisonment, along with a fine of Rs.30/-, which was a substantial amount in those days. Due to his young age, he was confined to Dahod Jail.

Notably, on August 15, 1972, during the 25th anniversary of Independence, Priyavadanbhai Desai, declined to accept any pension. His refusal to receive monetary benefits demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the historical land of Dahod and his undying pride in his contribution to the struggle for independence. He breathed his last at the age of 92 on October 13, 2021.

Source :

• Jadav Nilamben Ishvarbhai, Contributor for CCRT
• Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav