Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s forthcoming inauguration of the new Parliamentary building on Sunday, May 28, will not only mark a significant milestone in India’s governance but also pay homage to the nation’s historical journey towards independence. The ceremony will witness the placement of a symbolic artifact known as ‘Sengol,’ a Tamil word meaning ‘spectre,’ that carries a profound historical significance dating back to India’s independence in 1947.
The decision to incorporate the ‘Sengol’ in the inauguration ceremony was inspired by Prime Minister Modi’s discovery of this historical detail. Recognizing the importance of this artifact, PM Modi selected the auspicious occasion of the Parliament’s inauguration to present it to the nation, as revealed by Union Minister Amit Shah.
During a press conference held on Wednesday, Home Minister Amit Shah shared the details, stating, “PM Modi will dedicate the newly constructed Parliament building to the nation on 28th May. A historical event is being revived on this occasion. The historic sceptre, ‘Sengol,’ will be placed in the new Parliament building.”
Elaborating on the historical context and significance of the ‘Sengol,’ Minister Shah added, “On August 14, 1947, PM Nehru used it during the transfer of power from the British. In Tamil, it is called Sengol, which means ‘full of wealth.’ The Sengol played a vital role in our history and became a symbol of the transfer of power.”
The ‘Sengol’ holds deep-rooted symbolism in India’s historical transition to independence and the transfer of power from the British Raj to the newly formed democratic nation.
The concept of the ‘Sengol’ originated when Lord Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India, requested Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, to choose a symbol representing the country’s attainment of independence. Seeking guidance, Nehru turned to C. Rajagopalachari, the last Governor-General of India, who suggested adopting the Tamil tradition of presenting a spectre to a new king upon assuming power. Nehru readily embraced the idea, entrusting Rajaji with the responsibility of creating the ‘Sengol.’
The esteemed 20th Gurumaha Sannithanam Sri La Sri Ambalavana Desika Swamigal, assigned by Thiruvadunthurai Aadheenam, meticulously crafted the ‘Sengol’ out of gold, with a bull (Nandhi) adorning its pinnacle, as reported by The New Indian Express.
Moments before India’s independence on August 14, 1947, Sri La Sri Kumaraswamy Thambiran received the ‘Sengol’ from Lord Mountbatten. In the presence of Odhuvaar and saints reciting hymns, the Swami sanctified the artifact with holy water. As they reached the final verses of a pathigam, Sri La Sri Kumaraswamy Thambiran ceremoniously handed over the ‘Sengol’ to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, who proceeded to deliver his iconic ‘Tryst with Destiny’ speech.
The vesting of the sacred Sengol with Jawaharlal Nehru, on the eve of India’s Independence, was the exact moment of transfer of power from the British to India.
But instead of being given the pride of its place, it was tucked away in Anand Bhavan, and called the golden stick… pic.twitter.com/TSLqPYn5Ft
— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) May 25, 2023
This is how the #Sengol, the sacred emblem of authority, was kept in Anand Bhavan & labelled as a “golden walking stick”.
After 75 years, it will be purified with holy water & rituals, & installed in the new parliament, next to the speakers seat 🙏 pic.twitter.com/EfHAOciI0O— Smita Barooah (@smitabarooah) May 25, 2023
The inclusion of the ‘Sengol’ in the inauguration of the new Parliament building aims to revive this ancient tradition and commemorate India’s independence as the nation embarks on a new chapter in its democratic journey.
#NewParliamentBuilding | The Sengol was integral to our Independence but the Left relegated it as a nondescript ‘walking stick’ in a museum corner despite Pt Nehru’s crucial role. Another instance of how an entire eco-system censored any event in history that glorified ancient… pic.twitter.com/U3usN5eSVJ
— ANI (@ANI) May 25, 2023
As the nation eagerly awaits the historic event, the placement of the ‘Sengol’ serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters and the unwavering spirit of the Indian people. It symbolizes the continuity of democratic governance and the resilience of a nation that cherishes its rich history and cultural heritage.
Incorporating the ‘Sengol’ in the Parliament building inauguration underscores the government’s commitment to preserving India’s legacy while moving forward towards a progressive and inclusive future. It serves as a poignant reminder of the nation’s journey, highlighting the ideals of freedom, unity, and democratic values that continue to guide India’s path towards prosperity.
