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September 07, 2023 11:28
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What is Sengol: Sengol is a remarkable 5 foot golden sceptre will be placed in the new parliament building that holds a unique place in India's history. Read more about its origins, historical significance, and UPSC exam importance.
Sengol, a magnificent gold-plated silver sceptre (known as “ceṅkōl” in IAST), has found a new home in India’s New Parliament House, but its journey is steeped in history. This precious artifact was originally presented to Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first prime minister, as a gift from an Adheenam in Tamil Nadu on the historic day of 14 August 1947.
For seven decades, it found its residence in the Allahabad Museum, bearing witness to the nation’s history. However, in 2023, during the inauguration of the New Parliament House by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sengol found its new place of honor. This captivating transition of Sengol carries with it a rich legacy that resonates with the heritage of India.
The “Sengol,” derived from the Tamil word “Semmai” meaning “Righteousness,” carries a rich and meaningful history. Crafted from precious materials like gold and silver, often adorned with priceless gemstones, the Sengol sceptre held great significance. Emperors of the Chola Empire, a powerful dynasty in South India from the 9th to the 13th centuries CE, wielded the Sengol sceptre during ceremonial occasions to symbolize their authority.
The Cholas were renowned for their temple construction, maritime trade, efficient administration, and military prowess, making them a dominant force across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, and Sri Lanka. The Sengol sceptre served as a symbol of legitimacy and succession within the Chola lineage, traditionally passed from one Chola king to the next.
This transition was typically presided over by a high priest or guru, who bestowed the Sengol title upon the new monarch, a ritual laden with cultural and historical significance. Understanding the Sengol’s connection to the Chola Empire provides a glimpse into the rich tapestry of South India’s history and traditions.
The term “Sengol,” originating from the Tamil word “semmai” (meaning righteousness), carries deep historical importance. This sceptre is not just a mere object; it’s a powerful symbol of India’s struggle for independence and the transfer of authority from the British colonial rulers to the Indian people.
Back on August 14, 1947, at around 10:45 pm, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru accepted the Sengol sceptre from the Adhinam of Tamil Nadu.
This momentous act signified the pivotal shift of power, marking the end of British colonial rule and the dawn of a new era for the people of India. Understanding the historical significance of Sengol helps us appreciate the profound importance of this symbol in India’s journey towards independence.
In a significant announcement by Home Minister Amit Shah, it has been revealed that the age-old sceptre known as “Sengol” will find its place in the new Parliament building, symbolizing authority and democracy. Here’s what you need to know: Sengol holds a profound meaning, representing justice, the transfer of power, and good governance.
It was originally presented to India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, on August 14, 1947, signifying the historic transfer of power from the British Government to India.
On May 28th, after more than 75 years, Sengol will once again be a symbol of this pivotal transfer of power. This sceptre is a vivid reminder of India’s rich historical and cultural heritage, originating from the illustrious Chola dynasty, one of India’s most influential and powerful dynasties.
Home Minister Amit Shah emphasizes, “Even 75 years after gaining independence, many in India are unaware of this remarkable event, where India’s transfer of power was symbolized by the handing over of the Sengol to Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru.
It was a momentous occasion on the night of August 14, 1947, marking India’s independence. On this significant night, Jawaharlal Nehru received the ‘Sengol’ from the Adheenams (Priests) of the Thiruvaduthurai Adheenam (Mutt) in Tamil Nadu, specially gathered for this historic event. This moment precisely marked the transition of power from the British to the hands of Indians. So, what we celebrate as independence is profoundly linked to the very act of handing over the ‘Sengol’.”
Sengol stands as a powerful symbol representing justice, the transfer of authority, and effective governance. On August 14, 1947, this significant emblem was handed over to India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, marking the official shift of power from the British Government to India. Now, after over 75 years, Sengol will once again symbolize this historic power transition on May 28.
This sceptre also serves as a vivid reminder of India’s rich heritage and vibrant culture. Its roots trace back to the esteemed Chola dynasty, one of India’s most influential and formidable empires. Astonishingly, despite 75 years of independence, many Indians remain unaware of this pivotal event, where India’s transfer of power was symbolized through the presentation of Sengol to Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, as highlighted by Home Minister Amit Shah.
Understanding the profound significance of Sengol in India’s history can deepen our appreciation for the journey towards independence.
“Sengol is made of the gold-plated silver sceptre.”
The final British Viceroy, Lord Mountbatten, aimed to mark the historic moment of transferring authority to the Indian people. He collaborated with Jawaharlal Nehru, who sought advice from C. Rajagopalachari, a fellow member of the Indian National Congress.
Rajagopalachari delved into Tamil traditions and came up with the idea of a sceptre. In Tamil tradition, a high priest presents a sceptre to a new king during the coronation ceremony. He shared this insight with Nehru, suggesting that this tradition, followed by the Chola dynasty, could symbolize India’s independence from British rule.
Rajagopalachari approached the Thiruvaduthurai Atheenam, a significant religious organization in Tamil Nadu, with the task of creating the sceptre. The mutt’s spiritual leader at the time, Vummidi Bangaru, took charge of the project, overseeing the design and acquisition of the sceptre. This captivating story highlights the blend of tradition and innovation in commemorating India’s independence.
Vummidi Bangaru Chetty, a Chennai-based jeweler, is the mastermind behind the creation of the sengol. The sengol is a unique handcrafted scepter, measuring approximately 5 feet (1.5 meters) in length. It features a top diameter of about 3 inches (76 millimeters) and a bottom diameter of 1 inch (25 millimeters). This special scepter is made by covering a wooden staff with a layer of gold plating and is adorned with a seated Nandi figure at the top, representing qualities like justice and strength.
UPSC Mains 2023 is just around the corner and it is expected that UPSC will ask questions about the Sengol topic. It is very important for aspirants to prepare this topic strategically. The significance of Sengol will be in priority in question paper. The “Sengol” has a fascinating history that stretches back to the time of the Chola Dynasty. In those days, it was used to represent the fair and just transfer of authority from one king to another. This ancient tradition is a part of India’s rich cultural heritage.
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