On 25 January 1927, Bhimrao Balkunde, a diligent farmer, welcomed his son Shivappa into the world in Killari village, located in Ausa taluka. Despite the pervasive corruption in Killari during the Nizam era in the Osmanabad district, Shivappa learned to read and write. He had a passion for farming and was well-liked by his peers.
Razakar houses dotted the northeastern region of Killari villages during Nizam's era. These paramilitary forces were responsible for tax collection in the area and enforcing discipline during religious events, often subjecting villagers to torture and punishment for minor offenses. They would beat and drag villagers, treating them with such disdain that it caused social disgrace.
The soldiers involved in the freedom movement were enraged by the actions of the Razakars. Shivappa, who lived a modest life, possessed admirable qualities such as honesty and humility. He was also determined to take a stand against the Razakars and engage in occasional fights against them.
In 1947, the announcement of India's independence was met with jubilation among the educated individuals in the village. However, their excitement was short-lived when they learned that Nizam was unwilling to merge the state of Hyderabad with the union of India. As a result, the Razakars became even more oppressive, knowing that they were immune to consequences. In response, the Arya Samaj members initiated a satyagraha in the village, and at night, numerous houses displayed tricolour flags.
Shivappa Balakunde was apprehended by Razakars and Pathans during a land movement and was subsequently reprimanded by the court for his protest against the Nizam government. Despite being imprisoned, Shivappa continued to protest against the regime. Eventually, it was decided that the jailer should treat him as a prisoner of war.
On 18 September 1948, Shivappa's sentence was commuted, and he was released. He passed away on 20 September 1987.
Source: Kamlakar Ramrao Sawant, DRP, CCRT