Journalism of Resistance in Colonial India: A Re-reading of Chand’s “Fansi Issue” and Historiography

Abstract

In colonial India, journalism was not merely a medium of information; it served as a powerful expression of national consciousness, ideological struggle, and political resistance. The “Fansi Issue” of the Hindi magazine Chand emerges as a significant ideological document in this context. This special issue highlights the lives of Indian revolutionaries, their sacrifices, and the repressive policies of colonial rule, while establishing an ideological continuity from the Revolt of 1857 to the revolutionary movements of the twentieth century.

A major feature of this issue is that it presents the lives of revolutionaries not merely as historical facts, but as inspiring narratives. The emotional portrayal of sacrifice, courage, and martyrdom awakens national consciousness among readers. The depiction of “fansi” (execution) not as punishment but as a symbol of pride and martyrdom reflects its ideological strength. Furthermore, by drawing examples from international revolutions, it situates the Indian freedom struggle within a global perspective.

The confiscation of this issue by the British government indicates that it had become a serious challenge to colonial authority. It was not just a publication but a means to mobilize the masses and inspire resistance. Through symbolic language and metaphors, it also effectively confronted colonial censorship.

Thus, the “Fansi Issue” is not only a historical source but also an active ideological intervention that contributed to shaping and accelerating the freedom struggle, establishing journalism as a powerful tool of ideological resistance.