Early Life: Roots of Courage
Born on 22nd December 1924 in Borangabari village, Gohpur (then Darrang district, now Biswanath), Assam, Kanaklata hailed from the Dolakasharia Barua family—linked to Assam’s noble heritage. Orphaned at a young age (her mother died when she was five, father at thirteen), she had to support her siblings, leaving school after class three. Despite struggles, her father’s nationalist legacy instilled in her a spirit of sacrifice. [source]
Freedom Struggle: The Call to Action
During the Quit India Movement of 1942, Kanaklata joined the Mrityu Bahini (“death squad” of young volunteers) in Gohpur. Despite being just 17, she was chosen to lead women volunteers — a mark of her leadership, courage, and unwavering commitment to freedom. [source]
The Final March: Martyrdom at 17
On 20th September 1942, Kanaklata led a procession towards Gohpur Police Station with the Indian Flag. Refusing to back down under British threats, she attempted to hoist the flag but was shot dead on the spot. Mukunda Kakaty, another patriot, also attained martyrdom that day. Yet, the Tricolour was finally hoisted — immortalizing her sacrifice at the age of 17. [source]
Key Dates and Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 22 Dec 1924 | Born in Borangabari, Gohpur, Assam |
| Age 5 | Lost her mother |
| Age 13 | Lost father, left school to support family |
| 1942 | Joined Quit India Movement & Mrityu Bahini |
| 20 Sep 1942 | Martyred while leading the flag procession at Gohpur |
| 1997 | Indian Coast Guard named FPV ICGS “Kanaklata Barua” |
| 2011 | Statue erected in Gauripur, Assam |
Legacy: Inspiration for Generations
Kanaklata remains one of Assam’s brightest symbols of youth leadership, courage, and sacrifice. Roads, awards, schools, and even naval vessels immortalize her name, while statues across Assam celebrate her spirit. For aspirants preparing for state and national exams, she is remembered as:
2. Key participation: Quit India Movement, 1942
3. Martyred while trying to hoist the Flag at Gohpur Police Station
4. Leader of the Mrityu Bahini women volunteers
5. A symbol of women’s role in India’s independence struggle
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