St. Stephen's , as known to many, is a highly prestigious institution which has been under the limelight ever since it was founded. Initially thought of as the Britisher's hiding ground, the senior members of the college have not only shown the students the right path but also left their own trail behind. The college has always been under the leadership of stalwarts who have had the courage to fight for the sound cause.During the Indian Independence Struggle, St. Stephen's College has also left its imprint on the pages of history.
Charles Freer Andrews(a former principal), a famous and staunch follower of Mahatma Gandhi , has been an integral part of the Indian Independence Struggle. He was named "Deenbandhu"( i.e. the friend of the poor) and had strong belief in the power of "ahimsa". He was one unique stephanian who had attended the national meeting of Congress. He wrote articles for The Tribune to express his nationalist fervour. While he was in college, he worked with his close assosciate Mr. Sushil Kumar Rudra to involve the students of the college in the Swadeshi movement. While they were at work, there was a secret committee of around fifty young leaders who committed the bold deed of attacking Lord Harding when he came to Chandini Chowk. In those days, the college campus was at Kashmere Gate and had become a centre for controversy. Lala Hardayal(one of the students) was the mastermind behind the assault and later outsmarted the Britishers. His partners in the crime were caught and hung to death. These young scholars had dared to face death even though they had an option of a bright academic career.This just reinforces the general notion that stephanians have not only been "jack of all traits" but also "masters of many". They believed that freedom has life in the hearts,the actions and the spirit of righteous men.
Post 1911, Delhi was made the capital of India and thus eventually became a mecca of great politicians and leaders. Many of them stayed over at St. Stephen's college - mainly Mr. Rudra's residence. At this time, C.F.Andrews had gone to South Africa to convince Mahatma Gandhi to start his non-violence movement in India. Many passers-by asked Mr. Rudra why he wanted to take the risk of giving shelter to nationalists during foreign rule. Mr. Rudra very emphatically said,"When friends come to our college, they are not turned away but welcomed warmly!" Not only this, Mr. Rudra has also actively participated in the Non-cooperation movement. He implicitly encouraged his pupils to fight for their nation wholeheartedly. He emphasised on the liberty of conscience.
Further, when India was captured in Britishers' evil trap, Stephanians, who are known for their power of the pen, expressed their anguish through their magazines and newsletters. Their actions and views were highly supported by the senior members of the college.
St. Stephen's has always been , as many alumni say it, like a medallion on the chest! All students strive to live upto its glory and make the best out of whatever it offers to each of its children.
Written by a dedicated Stephenian.
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