Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi

Also known as the 'Father of the Nation', Mahatma Gandhi was the leader of India's freedom struggle. He not only led India to independence with his strict non-violence policy, but also inspired other such movements around the world. With a walking stick in one hand and a smile on his face, the Mahatma successfully heralded several events like the Quit India Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement.

Bhagat Singh

One of India's most significant revolutionaries, Shaheed Bhagat Singh laid down his life for the country while fighting for India's independence. Unlike Gandhi and Nehru, Singh advocated an aggressive approach. He threw bombs at the Central Legisltive Assembly and voluntarily got arrested. His fast unto death in police custody gained national support. He was hanged on March 23, 1931.

Chandrashekhar Azad

Born as Chandrashekhar Tiwari, he was known as Azad after he told the policemen that that was his name. Bhagat Singh's mentor, Azad was a powerful revolutionary and his presence and guidance in the freedom struggle gave it the right direction. Azad became an icon and his tales of bravery are legendary. A lot of films including Manoj Kumar's 'Shaheed' and Aamir Khans 'Rang De Basanti' have portrayed him a fierce character.

Subhash Chandra Bose

Bose was one of the most dynamic heroes of India's freedom struggle. He formed the Indian National Army (INA) while in exile. The mystery behind his death has not cleared till date. While many believe that he died in a plane crash, most believe this is just a conspiracy theory.

Lala Lajpat Rai

Popularly known as Punjab Kesari, Lala Lajpat Rai was part of the Lal Bal Pal trio. He was an Indian author and politician, best known as a leader in the Indian independence struggle. He was elected President of the Congress party in the Calcutta Special Session of 1920. Police attacked a non-violent protest against the Simon Commission led by Lala in 1928. That caused severe injuries that Lala succumbed to three weeks later. His death anniversary (November 17) is one of several days celebrated as Martyrs' Day in India.