Haiyu Nanu Himmat Moti

The book "Haiyu Nanu, Himmat Moti" (Small Heart, Great Courage) by Kumarpal Desai is a collection of inspiring stories for children, focusing on acts of bravery and patriotism displayed by young individuals in India. The author's preface highlights his preference for writing about real stories and events that instill national pride and courage in children. He emphasizes that stories of children demonstrating courage at a young age can resonate more deeply with child readers than tales of legendary heroes.

The book aims to build self-confidence and a spirit of resilience in children by showcasing how individuals their own age have exhibited immense bravery. The collection features true events where children have made sacrifices and performed acts of valor for the nation. The author notes that the book received an award from the 20th Children's Literature Competition organized by NCERT.

The table of contents reveals three main stories:

1. "Natak Karie" (Let's Do a Play): This story depicts a group of young students in Bengal who decide to stage a play to protest against the oppressive rule of a British official named Nil Saheb. The play highlights the injustices and cruelty faced by the Indian people under British rule. The performance is so impactful that it moves the audience, including the renowned scholar Pandit Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, who throws his shoe at the actor portraying Nil Saheb, acknowledging the play's effectiveness. The play's success ignites a spirit of resistance across Bengal, achieving what discussions among adults could not.

2. "Hindostan Ni Beti" (Daughter of Hindustan): This story narrates the courageous role of a thirteen-year-old girl, Maina, the daughter of Nana Saheb Peshwa, during the Indian Mutiny of 1857. Despite her young age, she takes charge of the revolutionary forces in Kanpur when her father has to leave. She demonstrates remarkable leadership, strategy, and bravery in battles against the British forces. The story highlights her efforts to protect key leaders like Tatya Tope and her own valiant fight, even when captured. She defiantly confronts the British commander, Sir Colin Campbell, refusing to betray her father and ultimately accepting her fate with courage, chanting slogans of freedom as she is tragically burned alive.

3. "Khoon Aapo, Azaadi Melvo" (Give Blood, Get Freedom): This story is about a twelve-year-old boy who is deeply affected by the concept of slavery and the derogatory remarks made by the British about Indians. Inspired by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's call to action, "Tum humko khoon do, main tumhe azaadi dunga" (Give me blood, I will give you freedom), the boy embarks on a mission. He joins the Azad Hind Fauj and, with immense bravery, carries a bomb and sacrifices himself by detonating it as a British tank advances, destroying the tank and its occupants. This act of selfless bravery is deeply moving for Netaji, who recognizes the strength and potential of the Indian youth to achieve freedom.

Overall, "Haiyu Nanu, Himmat Moti" is a collection that aims to inspire young readers by showcasing that courage and patriotism are not limited by age. It emphasizes that even the smallest heart can possess immense courage when driven by a love for the nation. The stories are rooted in historical events, illustrating the spirit of resistance and sacrifice that contributed to India's struggle for independence.