"A Martyr's Notebook" is an annotated publication of the jail diary kept by Shaheed Bhagat Singh during his imprisonment from 1929 to 1931. This notebook contains Bhagat Singh’s handwritten notes, reflections, and extracts from over 40 books by more than 100 authors, including Karl Marx, Friedrich Engels, Lenin, and other revolutionary thinkers. Bhagat Singh used his prison time not only to prepare for his impending martyrdom but also to deepen his understanding of political philosophy, history, economics, and revolutionary theory. The book was edited and published by Bhupendra Hooja, who serialized the notebook in the early 1990s before bringing out the full annotated volume in 1994. This publication was the first time the world had access to the intellectual depth of Bhagat Singh as a thinker and scholar revolutionary, beyond his popular image as a martyr.

"A Martyr's Notebook" is a crucial text for understanding Bhagat Singh not just as a freedom fighter but as a profound intellectual and political thinker. It demystifies the revolutionary by exposing his rigorous study and critical engagement with global political ideas. The book serves as a rare window into the mental and ideological preparation of one of India’s most revered martyrs during his final years. It also enriches the historiography of India’s independence movement by highlighting the ideological diversity and depth among its leaders.

Revolution and Insurrection: Bhagat Singh’s notes emphasize the necessity of determination, audacity, and offensive action in revolutionary struggle. He believed that insurrection must be carried through to the bitter end with courage and strategic planning to succeed against organized colonial forces.Political Philosophy and Marxism: The notebook reveals Bhagat Singh’s engagement with Marxist theory, capitalism, socialism, and communism. He critically analyzed the economic inequalities and class struggles inherent in capitalist societies, reflecting a global and modern perspective on social justice.Atheism and Rationalism: Bhagat Singh’s writings also include reflections on religion and atheism, notably his famous essay "Why I am an Atheist." His notebook underscores his rationalist worldview and rejection of religious dogma as part of his revolutionary ideology.Human Rights and Justice: He explored the ideas of liberty, equality, and human rights through the works of Rousseau, Jefferson, and other enlightenment thinkers. Bhagat Singh’s notes reveal his commitment to universal human dignity and justice beyond nationalist confines.Sacrifice and Martyrdom: The notebook contains poignant reflections on the meaning of sacrifice, death, and legacy. Bhagat Singh saw his martyrdom as a symbol to inspire future generations to continue the struggle for freedom and social change.

Bhagat Singh’s notebook has immense cultural significance as it humanizes and intellectualizes a figure often mythologized in popular culture. It connects contemporary readers with the historical context of colonial resistance and the global currents of revolutionary thought influencing Indian freedom fighters. The publication of this notebook helped revive interest in Bhagat Singh’s ideas during the 1990s and beyond, inspiring youth and scholars alike. It also bridges the gap between nationalist narratives and socialist-revolutionary ideologies, showing Bhagat Singh’s commitment to a broader vision of social transformation.

The release of "A Martyr's Notebook" contributed to a renewed understanding of Bhagat Singh’s legacy in India and Pakistan. It reinforced his status as a symbol of courage, intellectual rigor, and uncompromising commitment to justice. The notebook inspired activists and intellectuals to revisit the ideals of revolutionary socialism and secularism in the context of India’s ongoing social and political challenges. It also encouraged a more nuanced public discourse about the independence movement, emphasizing the role of youth, sacrifice, and ideological diversity in shaping modern India.

"A Martyr's Notebook" by Bhupendra Hooja is a landmark publication that reveals the intellectual journey of Shaheed Bhagat Singh during his last years in prison. The book is a testament to Bhagat Singh’s profound engagement with revolutionary theory, political philosophy, and social justice. It enriches the narrative of India’s freedom struggle by presenting Bhagat Singh as a thinker who combined action with reflection, courage with scholarship. The cultural and historical significance of this work lies in its ability to inspire successive generations to value intellectual rigor alongside activism in the pursuit of justice and freedom.This summary encapsulates the essence and impact of "A Martyr's Notebook," highlighting its role in preserving and propagating the revolutionary spirit and ideas of Bhagat Singh. The book remains a vital resource for anyone interested in the history of Indian independence, revolutionary thought, and the enduring legacy of one of its greatest martyrs.