Pursottam Lal was born on 1 March 1915, in the village of Mahu, post-Mahu, tehsil Bidhuna, Auraiya district, Uttar Pradesh. His father’s name was Baldev Prasad. His early education was received in his native village. Driven by a deep sense of patriotism, he mobilized villagers to join the freedom movement of Bharat.
He was deeply influenced by the ideologies of Mahatma Gandhi and VinobaBhave. When Gandhi ji called for the Quit India Movement on 8 August 1942, with the rallying cry of "KaroYaMaro" (Do or Die), he enthusiastically joined and encouraged others to participate. He faced imprisonment in Fatehgarh Jail, enduring the cruelty of British authorities with unwavering resolve.
Even after his release, he remained dedicated to the cause of independence. A beacon of promise from the land of Auraiya, he continued his revolutionary activities.
His efforts in mobilizing villagers and promoting Gandhian principles of nonviolent resistance highlight his role as a grassroots leader. Despite facing adversity and imprisonment, he never wavered in his dedication to the cause.
Pursottam Lal passed away on 20 February 2000.
The name is mentioned in a memorial situated in Mahu village, Auraiya, Uttar Pradesh.
Source: Simpi Maurya, Contributor for CCRT.