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Uprising: The Liberation of Dadra and Nagar Haveli
In 1954, in the small town of Silvassa, wind blows through desolate streets. Doors are bolted for the first time, windows shuttered. The town is silent, except for the soft, persistent patter of August rain. The only movement is that of a group of outsiders, gathering stealthily around the barricaded Silvassa police post, their faces grim. A man raises his hand to signal the others—it is time.
Uprising chronicles a remarkable, yet often overlooked chapter of Indian history. A few years after the country became independent, ordinary civilians rose up against the extortionist and cruel colonial stragglers entrenched in the villages of Dadra and Nagar Haveli—the Portuguese. With the new Indian prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, unwilling to strain nascent diplomatic bonds, it was up to a few brave men and women to take matters into their own hands. The odds were not good: the Portuguese were armed to the teeth and outnumbered them heavily. It was an extraordinary coalition that took them on: Lata Mangeshkar and Mohammed Rafi helped raise funds through a concert; volunteers from the Azad Gomantak Dal, the RSS and radical communists collaborated with the local tribal population to launch attacks in Silvassa, Naroli, Pipariya, Khanvel and other places in an effort to drive the Portuguese out once and for all.
Through interviews with descendants of the participants (and a handful of participants themselves), newspaper archival records, letters and diary entries, Neelesh Kulkarni painstakingly puts together the pieces of this little-known history. An electrifying story emerges—the solidarity, resilience and fearlessness of a people who defy tyranny, and make history in the process.
Uprising chronicles a remarkable, yet often overlooked chapter of Indian history. A few years after the country became independent, ordinary civilians rose up against the extortionist and cruel colonial stragglers entrenched in the villages of Dadra and Nagar Haveli—the Portuguese. With the new Indian prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, unwilling to strain nascent diplomatic bonds, it was up to a few brave men and women to take matters into their own hands. The odds were not good: the Portuguese were armed to the teeth and outnumbered them heavily. It was an extraordinary coalition that took them on: Lata Mangeshkar and Mohammed Rafi helped raise funds through a concert; volunteers from the Azad Gomantak Dal, the RSS and radical communists collaborated with the local tribal population to launch attacks in Silvassa, Naroli, Pipariya, Khanvel and other places in an effort to drive the Portuguese out once and for all.
Through interviews with descendants of the participants (and a handful of participants themselves), newspaper archival records, letters and diary entries, Neelesh Kulkarni painstakingly puts together the pieces of this little-known history. An electrifying story emerges—the solidarity, resilience and fearlessness of a people who defy tyranny, and make history in the process.
250 pages, Paperback
Published August 26, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
October 21, 2024
It is a marvellous account of the uprising to free Dadra and Nagar Haveli from the Portuguese rule. The author Neelesh Kulkarni has done extensive research to unearth the facts and the struggle of the local groups in achieving this feat and presented it in a logical and detailed manner. I really enjoyed reading thr book and learnt so much through this.
December 12, 2024
-Breaking the Chains-
Review of 'Uprising'
Uprising chronicles a lesser known historical tale of the armed liberation of Dadar and Nagar Haveli from Portugal control. In this historical non-fic, Kulkarni skillfully weaves a thrilling page-turning story from the archives of our country into a coherent narrative.
He writes- 'The impact of Gandhi's Satyagraha was such that most children in independent India grow up believing that nonviolent resistance was the sole reason for the success of the freedom struggle. As a result, the role of those who took up arms to free the country from foreign domination has long been side-lined in public memory.'
This book tells the story of the only armed rebellion that helped free a state. Portuguese, those who were first to colonise India were last to leave it. It has many interesting and awe-inducing moments. I don't want to spoil the reader's joy before they dive into the book by oversharing.In a fictional narrative, a reviewer must keep the twists hidden. Similarly, in a non-fic, they must not overshare the big-reveals, letting the reader get to them organically. But sharing what's on the blurb is fair deal. I particularly loved the concert in which Lata and Rafi sang to collect money for the rebellion. Also, there is a huge but about a PM of 1 day and I bet you mustn't have heard it anywhere before, not even on KBC.
Kulkarni has handled this material like a proficient storyteller. A non-fic, at the end, is a story. It doesn't matter that it's a snippet from history. It's a true story after all. And the author does full justice to the subject of this magnitude. He lets the story germinate and helps it turn into a magnificent tree. This should be taught in our schools.
The only thing I didn't like was the decision to share on the blurb the mild snark taken on our first PM. That could have been avoided.
Review of 'Uprising'
Uprising chronicles a lesser known historical tale of the armed liberation of Dadar and Nagar Haveli from Portugal control. In this historical non-fic, Kulkarni skillfully weaves a thrilling page-turning story from the archives of our country into a coherent narrative.
He writes- 'The impact of Gandhi's Satyagraha was such that most children in independent India grow up believing that nonviolent resistance was the sole reason for the success of the freedom struggle. As a result, the role of those who took up arms to free the country from foreign domination has long been side-lined in public memory.'
This book tells the story of the only armed rebellion that helped free a state. Portuguese, those who were first to colonise India were last to leave it. It has many interesting and awe-inducing moments. I don't want to spoil the reader's joy before they dive into the book by oversharing.In a fictional narrative, a reviewer must keep the twists hidden. Similarly, in a non-fic, they must not overshare the big-reveals, letting the reader get to them organically. But sharing what's on the blurb is fair deal. I particularly loved the concert in which Lata and Rafi sang to collect money for the rebellion. Also, there is a huge but about a PM of 1 day and I bet you mustn't have heard it anywhere before, not even on KBC.
Kulkarni has handled this material like a proficient storyteller. A non-fic, at the end, is a story. It doesn't matter that it's a snippet from history. It's a true story after all. And the author does full justice to the subject of this magnitude. He lets the story germinate and helps it turn into a magnificent tree. This should be taught in our schools.
The only thing I didn't like was the decision to share on the blurb the mild snark taken on our first PM. That could have been avoided.
September 25, 2024
In ‘Uprising’ Neelesh Kulkarni has closely woven the overlooked and one of the least documented aspects of Indian History into absorbing human drama of anti-Portuguese struggle in the mid-20th century in Dadra and Nagar Haveli. This is not the retelling of history but a portrait of the nation’s triumph over despotism, remembering the odds against the common populace whenever they fought cruelty and injustice.
The author manifests his abilities by transforming a complicated nuanced subject of history into a great, engaging and compelling read. The author's storytelling ability goes beyond traditional historiography and simply blends robust research with an enriched personal narrative to be so immersive, it creates a feeling of being part of the action yourself. Its comprehensive narrative is vastly reinforced with a wealth of archival material as well, from newspapers, letters, & interviews with descendants of key protagonists, it's truly immersive.
The author paints a vivid picture of the socio-political climate of the time, where at this moment in history, an allied India under then prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru refused to rupture diplomatic ties with Portugal. However, political inactivity and colonial rulers did not prevent the local community, and a dispersed group of outsiders, many were volunteers with the Azad Gomantak Dal, RSS, radical communists, & Bollywood stars Lata Mangeshkar & Mohammed Rafi, from rallying together for the cause of liberation. His depiction of various forces working in unison against a common enemy is one of solidarity.The book’s strength lies in its ability to balance the grand historical canvas with intimate personal stories,creating a narrative that is as emotionally compelling as it is intellectually stimulating.
In conclusion, it is perhaps one of the most comprehensive historical narratives of a neglected yet important chapter in India’s integration story.The author has brought back a memory of the Dadra and Nagar Haveli Mukti Sangram and provided us with a work that reminds us how ordinary people shaped the course of history.This book is not just for history enthusiasts but for anyone who wants to dive into India's past.
The author manifests his abilities by transforming a complicated nuanced subject of history into a great, engaging and compelling read. The author's storytelling ability goes beyond traditional historiography and simply blends robust research with an enriched personal narrative to be so immersive, it creates a feeling of being part of the action yourself. Its comprehensive narrative is vastly reinforced with a wealth of archival material as well, from newspapers, letters, & interviews with descendants of key protagonists, it's truly immersive.
The author paints a vivid picture of the socio-political climate of the time, where at this moment in history, an allied India under then prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru refused to rupture diplomatic ties with Portugal. However, political inactivity and colonial rulers did not prevent the local community, and a dispersed group of outsiders, many were volunteers with the Azad Gomantak Dal, RSS, radical communists, & Bollywood stars Lata Mangeshkar & Mohammed Rafi, from rallying together for the cause of liberation. His depiction of various forces working in unison against a common enemy is one of solidarity.The book’s strength lies in its ability to balance the grand historical canvas with intimate personal stories,creating a narrative that is as emotionally compelling as it is intellectually stimulating.
In conclusion, it is perhaps one of the most comprehensive historical narratives of a neglected yet important chapter in India’s integration story.The author has brought back a memory of the Dadra and Nagar Haveli Mukti Sangram and provided us with a work that reminds us how ordinary people shaped the course of history.This book is not just for history enthusiasts but for anyone who wants to dive into India's past.
April 9, 2025
In Uprising: The Liberation of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Prajal Kulkarni uncovers a neglected yet pivotal chapter of post-independence India—how a small territory under Portuguese control achieved liberation in 1954 through grassroots mobilization, without direct Indian military intervention. While Goa’s 1961 liberation dominates national memory, Kulkarni shifts the lens to Dadra and Nagar Haveli, relying on oral histories, letters, and local archives to reconstruct a movement driven by civilian resolve, regional networks, and improvisational tactics. Tapovan Ashram served as a revolutionary hub, and figures like Hemwatibai Natekar and Vaidya played crucial roles, revealing how women and non-combatants contributed foundationally to planning and intelligence.
Kulkarni foregrounds ideological diversity in the movement—RSS cadres like Nansinh Kajrekar worked alongside socialists and Congress-affiliated leaders such as the Parulekars and Jayanthibai Desai. Rather than presenting a unified front, the book acknowledges ideological tensions and tactical disagreements, portraying resistance as a contested but collaborative process. The Indian state, caught in diplomatic constraints due to Portugal’s NATO status, remained hesitant, compelling ordinary citizens and groups like the Azad Gomantak Dal to fill the void through stealth operations, attacks on police posts, and eventually peaceful negotiation. The non-violent surrender, brokered by Bujorji Contractor, adds a Gandhian layer, demonstrating how moral persuasion complemented guerrilla tactics.
What sets Uprising apart is its methodological and ethical depth. Kulkarni treats oral history, personal letters, and memory as legitimate archival sources, bringing authenticity and intimacy to the narrative. He highlights the ethical code of conduct upheld by resistance leaders, who emphasized discipline, non-looting, and civilian respect—earning the movement popular support in a region marked by cultural plurality. The smooth administrative transition by 1961, aided by local committees already performing governance roles, exemplifies how sovereignty was not granted but gradually assumed. Kulkarni ultimately reframes Indian independence as an ongoing, decentralized process—urging readers to recognize the nation’s freedom struggle not only in Delhi’s corridors of power, but in ashrams, hamlets, and forests where ordinary people made extraordinary claims to nationhood.
Kulkarni foregrounds ideological diversity in the movement—RSS cadres like Nansinh Kajrekar worked alongside socialists and Congress-affiliated leaders such as the Parulekars and Jayanthibai Desai. Rather than presenting a unified front, the book acknowledges ideological tensions and tactical disagreements, portraying resistance as a contested but collaborative process. The Indian state, caught in diplomatic constraints due to Portugal’s NATO status, remained hesitant, compelling ordinary citizens and groups like the Azad Gomantak Dal to fill the void through stealth operations, attacks on police posts, and eventually peaceful negotiation. The non-violent surrender, brokered by Bujorji Contractor, adds a Gandhian layer, demonstrating how moral persuasion complemented guerrilla tactics.
What sets Uprising apart is its methodological and ethical depth. Kulkarni treats oral history, personal letters, and memory as legitimate archival sources, bringing authenticity and intimacy to the narrative. He highlights the ethical code of conduct upheld by resistance leaders, who emphasized discipline, non-looting, and civilian respect—earning the movement popular support in a region marked by cultural plurality. The smooth administrative transition by 1961, aided by local committees already performing governance roles, exemplifies how sovereignty was not granted but gradually assumed. Kulkarni ultimately reframes Indian independence as an ongoing, decentralized process—urging readers to recognize the nation’s freedom struggle not only in Delhi’s corridors of power, but in ashrams, hamlets, and forests where ordinary people made extraordinary claims to nationhood.
November 21, 2024
Dadra and Nagar Haveli a union territory which hardly ever gets a mention anywhere whether you talk about our highly doctored academic text books or even in media channels ,both print and visual . Its one place I have always been intrigued about but due to not many sources to refer to have often been left wanting to know more .
"Uprising" is a work that chronicles a remarkable, yet often overlooked chapter of Indian history. After we gained independence from the clutches of Britishers , Portuguese invasion pulled us down . They inflicted tyranny of immense proportion on Goans and people of Dadra and Nagar. The PM was Nehru then who only wanted to maintain diplomatic relations with the enemy country and did nothing to improve the conditions of locals there. It was then handful of people took the onus on themselves to liberate the region of great importance. Supporting them was RSS , the one organization who is always at the helm whenever anything goes wrong with our people.
How with insurmountable courage and unity of Hindus we were able to integrate the territory to the mainstream is what this book entails .
The revered author Neelesh ji has done a great amount of research in bringing the truth to the masses. His eye for detail is in full flow as he has comprehensively covered even the minute details of the event. Opting for a lesser heard incident and then doing full justice to it is not everyone's cup of tea . And with most of the common sources like Wikipedia hijacked by the left , it becomes all the more difficult to unearth the reality. So kudos to the author.
Overall a very brave attempt and should be read.
"Uprising" is a work that chronicles a remarkable, yet often overlooked chapter of Indian history. After we gained independence from the clutches of Britishers , Portuguese invasion pulled us down . They inflicted tyranny of immense proportion on Goans and people of Dadra and Nagar. The PM was Nehru then who only wanted to maintain diplomatic relations with the enemy country and did nothing to improve the conditions of locals there. It was then handful of people took the onus on themselves to liberate the region of great importance. Supporting them was RSS , the one organization who is always at the helm whenever anything goes wrong with our people.
How with insurmountable courage and unity of Hindus we were able to integrate the territory to the mainstream is what this book entails .
The revered author Neelesh ji has done a great amount of research in bringing the truth to the masses. His eye for detail is in full flow as he has comprehensively covered even the minute details of the event. Opting for a lesser heard incident and then doing full justice to it is not everyone's cup of tea . And with most of the common sources like Wikipedia hijacked by the left , it becomes all the more difficult to unearth the reality. So kudos to the author.
Overall a very brave attempt and should be read.
January 4, 2025
Neelesh Kulkarni’s Uprising is a powerful journey into a forgotten chapter of Indian history. Set in 1954, the story begins in the rain-soaked streets of Silvassa , where courageous citizens rise against Portuguese colonial rule. The vivid imagery of barricades , stealthy movements , and unwavering determination brings this historical moment alive. You can almost feel the tension in the air and the rain-soaked courage of those who stood up for freedom.
What truly sets this book apart is its incredible depth of research. From interviews, archival letters , and newspaper clippings , Kulkarni weaves a narrative that is both authentic and electrifying . The coalition of tribes , radicals , and even musical legends (like Lata Mangeshkar and Mohammed Rafi showcases the unity and creativity that defined this struggle. It's a tale of bravery , resilience , and the unyielding spirit of ordinary people.
Kulkarni’s storytelling also captures the emotional essence of this historic uprising. You feel the fear , hope , and triumph of the freedom fighters as they defy tyranny. It’s a stirring reminder that independence wasn’t achieved in a single moment—it was a continuous battle fought with grit and sacrifice. These unsung heroes deserve to be celebrated, and this book beautifully immortalizes their legacy.
If you’re passionate about history , courage , and stories of resilience , Uprising is a must-read! Kulkarni has gifted us a treasure trove of inspiration and pride.
What truly sets this book apart is its incredible depth of research. From interviews, archival letters , and newspaper clippings , Kulkarni weaves a narrative that is both authentic and electrifying . The coalition of tribes , radicals , and even musical legends (like Lata Mangeshkar and Mohammed Rafi showcases the unity and creativity that defined this struggle. It's a tale of bravery , resilience , and the unyielding spirit of ordinary people.
Kulkarni’s storytelling also captures the emotional essence of this historic uprising. You feel the fear , hope , and triumph of the freedom fighters as they defy tyranny. It’s a stirring reminder that independence wasn’t achieved in a single moment—it was a continuous battle fought with grit and sacrifice. These unsung heroes deserve to be celebrated, and this book beautifully immortalizes their legacy.
If you’re passionate about history , courage , and stories of resilience , Uprising is a must-read! Kulkarni has gifted us a treasure trove of inspiration and pride.
March 17, 2025
Neelesh Kulkarni weaves a masterful narrative about the uprising for the liberation of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, led by groups including RSS members, Azad Gomantak Dal, radical communists and the Warli tribals. Young activists inspired by Savarkar's ideology took up arms against the Portuguese occupation when they felt the Indian government wouldn’t act. Nehru as a Prime minister openly made a statement that the Indian Army will not participate in the liberation of Dadar Nagar haveli. It delves into the challenges encountered by the inhabitants of Dadra and Nagar Haveli as they try to break free from Portuguese rule. The Azad Gomantak Dal, after facing brutal oppression, resorted to armed resistance, including bank robberies to fund their cause. The author also highlights the pivotal role of Godavari Bai Parolekar in organizing the tribal resistance. This book goes back to the Marathas times when they did treaty with Portugese.
In this book he has shown the gradual development of the movement. Chronology has been kept in mind while describing the development. Along with the movement, light has also been thrown on diplomatic maneuvers and constitutional debates, international pressure and the role of various organizations.
Now I will read गोवा की मुक्ति का आन्दोलन (Goa Liberation Movement) by Virendra Kumar.
Unfortunately, I wasn't aware of this liberation. Our school didn't teach us about this incident . This book was quite educating for me. Many such stories need to be written. I hope more such stories need to be written for Bhopal, Hyderabad and Goa.
In this book he has shown the gradual development of the movement. Chronology has been kept in mind while describing the development. Along with the movement, light has also been thrown on diplomatic maneuvers and constitutional debates, international pressure and the role of various organizations.
Now I will read गोवा की मुक्ति का आन्दोलन (Goa Liberation Movement) by Virendra Kumar.
Unfortunately, I wasn't aware of this liberation. Our school didn't teach us about this incident . This book was quite educating for me. Many such stories need to be written. I hope more such stories need to be written for Bhopal, Hyderabad and Goa.
January 4, 2025
Uprising: The Liberation of Dadra and Nagar Haveli is a compelling account of a lesser-known chapter in India’s fight for independence. The book vividly narrates the 1954 uprising in Silvassa, where ordinary citizens united to overthrow Portuguese colonial rule. Kulkarni’s meticulous research and engaging storytelling shed light on this remarkable episode of resilience and courage. 📚🇮🇳✨
The narrative highlights the collaboration between diverse groups, including local tribals, the RSS, radical communists, and cultural icons like Lata Mangeshkar and Mohammed Rafi, who organized concerts to raise funds for the cause. This unity across different sections of society played a pivotal role in the success of the liberation movement. 💪🏽🎶🤝🏽
Author’s use of interviews with descendants and surviving participants, along with archival records, adds depth and authenticity to the story. The book not only chronicles the events leading to the liberation but also delves into the personal sacrifices and unwavering determination of those involved. It’s a tribute to the indomitable spirit of people who dared to challenge tyranny. 🔥🕊️
Readers have praised the book for its engaging narrative and thorough research. “Uprising” is a must-read for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in the untold stories of India’s path to freedom. 📖👏🏽
February 25, 2025
"Uprising: The Liberation of Dadra and Nagar Haveli" by Neelesh Kulkarni. It is an electrifying account of an often-overlooked chapter in India’s fight for freedom.
Set in 1954, the book captures the bravery of ordinary people rising up against Portuguese rule when official diplomacy fell short. The author weaves together personal stories, archival records, and interviews to paint a vivid picture of resilience and unity.
What makes the story truly special is the collaboration between unlikely allies — local tribals, RSS volunteers, radical communists, and even cultural legends like Lata Mangeshkar and Mohammed Rafi, who helped raise funds through concerts. The narrative is fast-paced, gripping & deeply rooted in historical truth.
This book isn't just history; it's a powerful tribute to courage and comradeship. An absolute must-read for anyone curious about India's untold stories of liberation!
Set in 1954, the book captures the bravery of ordinary people rising up against Portuguese rule when official diplomacy fell short. The author weaves together personal stories, archival records, and interviews to paint a vivid picture of resilience and unity.
What makes the story truly special is the collaboration between unlikely allies — local tribals, RSS volunteers, radical communists, and even cultural legends like Lata Mangeshkar and Mohammed Rafi, who helped raise funds through concerts. The narrative is fast-paced, gripping & deeply rooted in historical truth.
This book isn't just history; it's a powerful tribute to courage and comradeship. An absolute must-read for anyone curious about India's untold stories of liberation!
October 9, 2024
Well researched and in-depth view into a key historical event. Good read.
December 30, 2024
Great book which sheds light on a part of history which our school textbooks overlook.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews