Why in News? 

The Prime Minister paid tribute to freedom fighter Veer Savarkar on his Punya tithi (26^th February) 

Veer Savarkar- Key Facts 

Birth 

• Born on 28th May 1883 in Bhagur, near Nashik, Maharashtra. 

Related Organizations and Work 

• Founded the secret society Abhinav Bharat Society in 1904. 
• Involved with India House and Free India Society in the UK. 
• Served as President of Hindu Mahasabha (1937-1943). 
• Wrote ‘The History of the War of Indian Independence’, detailing guerrilla warfare in the 1857 Revolt. 
• Authored ‘Hindutva: Who is a Hindu?’, which defined Hindutva ideology. 

Trial and Sentences 

• Arrested in 1909 for plotting an armed revolt against the Morley-Minto Reforms (Indian Councils Act 1909). 
• Arrested again in 1910 for links with India House. 
• Charged with abetment in Nashik Collector Jackson's murder and conspiracy under IPC 121-A against the British. 
• Sentenced to 50 years of imprisonment (Kala Pani) in Cellular Jail, Andaman (1911). 

Death 

• Died on 26th February 1966 due to voluntary fasting.