Tryambak Krushnarao Raut, born in Yavatmal in 1922, played a pivotal role in the 'Chale Jav' movement of 1942 in the Yavatmal district. Alongside fellow freedom fighter Jawaharlal Darda, Raut organized resistance against British rule with meticulous planning. Dividing themselves into small teams, they strategically operated, with Raut leading the second team.
Their courageous act of lowering the Union Jack flag from the town hall, now Nagar Bhavan, and raising the Indian tricolor led to his arrest and subsequent imprisonment. With Darda also detained, Raut assumed greater responsibility in the local freedom struggle, joined by comrades Ganpatrao Malvi and Nana Mude.
The Shivram Theatre at Gandhi Chowk emerged as a hub for clandestine meetings, leaflet printing and awareness campaigns, spearheaded by Raut, Darda, Malvi, Mudey, Yashwant Pallekar and Meghraj Chhallani. Tragically, Pallekar succumbed to poor health while incarcerated; further galvanizing Raut and his associates to protest at Azad Maidan and Pachkandil Chowk, resulting in Raut's repeated arrests and imprisonment.
During 1935-1940, he was instrumental in the establishment of the 'Hans Natya Mandal', utilizing theatrical performances to instill a sense of patriotism and resistance against British rule. Post-independence, his dedication extended to advocating for laborers and workers, notably championing the Martyr's Memorial for Yashwant Pallekar and supporting the families of freedom fighters.
Serving as President of the 'Freedom Fighters District Honour Committee' from 1962 to 1992, Raut remained actively engaged in various social movements, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to freedom and social justice.
‘Swatantra Sainik Charitra Kosh’ Vidarbha Zone, Maharashtra State Gazetteers.
Source: Shivaji Govindrao Mhaske, Contributor for CCRT.