4.
The answer is: C
Explanation
Answer: C - Lala Lajpat Rai
Explanation:
- Lala Lajpat Rai was given the title "Punjab Kesari" meaning "Lion of Punjab" in recognition of his fierce leadership, political activism and resistance against British colonial rule.
- He was one of the Lal-Bal-Pal trio (Lala Lajpat Rai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal) - the radical nationalist triumvirate of the early 20th century.
- He died in 1928 from injuries sustained during a lathi charge ordered by British officer Saunders, while leading protests against the Simon Commission.
- His death directly triggered Bhagat Singh's assassination of Saunders in retaliation.
Why other options are wrong:
- Ranjit Singh is titled "Sher-e-Punjab" (also means Lion of Punjab, but in Persian/Urdu) - a common confusion point. These are two different titles for different people.
- Bhagat Singh is associated with titles like Shaheed-e-Azam (Greatest Martyr).
- Sardar Baldev Singh was independent India's first Defence Minister - no such title associated with him.
The critical trap here:
- Both Ranjit Singh and Lala Lajpat Rai carry "Lion of Punjab" type titles in different languages.
Ranjit Singh = Sher-e-Punjab
Lala Lajpat Rai = Punjab Kesari