Chittaranjan Das Memorial (Step Aside): A Nationalist's Retreat

The Chittaranjan Das Memorial, also known as 'Step Aside', is a two-story villa that stands as a poignant reminder of India's struggle for independence. Located a short distance from Chowrasta Mall in Darjeeling, this historic house is where Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das, a prominent Indian freedom fighter, spent his last days and passed away on June 16, 1925. In May 1925, Chittaranjan Das sought respite in Darjeeling, hoping to recover his failing health. Mahatma Gandhi visited him and stayed at 'Step Aside' for several days, engaging in discussions about the future of the Congress and Swaraj Parties. The house originally belonged to Mr. Warnsei, but was later owned by Sir N.N. Sircar, a friend of Chittaranjan Das. In 1954, Birendra Nath Sircar, son of Nripendra Nath Sirker, handed over “Step Aside” to the Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Memorial Society. The first floor of the villa has been converted into a museum, preserving some of his personal belongings and portraits. The adjacent C.R. Das Road is named after him. Although the museum is currently closed to visitors, the building is undergoing renovations.