Date: 24, May 2023
New Delhi: In a momentous move to commemorate India's independence, the iconic 'Sengol' sceptre, which played a pivotal role in the transfer of power from the British in 1947, will be permanently housed in the newly constructed Parliament building, announced Union Home Minister Amit Shah today.
'Sengol' holds great historical significance, having been wielded by former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru on August 14, 1947, during the momentous transfer of power. The placement of this cherished symbol in the new Parliament building signifies the nation's deep-rooted cultural heritage and its harmonious blend with modernity, as part of the ongoing Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations.
During a press conference held in New Delhi, Home Minister Amit Shah expressed his admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visionary approach in amalgamating India's rich traditions with progress. He commended the efforts of the approximately 60,000 individuals involved in the record-breaking construction of the new Parliament building and announced that the Prime Minister would personally honor them.
The Home Minister underscored the historical importance of this event by highlighting the revival of the 'Sengol' sceptre's significance. He explained that the Tamil word 'Sengol,' which translates to "full of wealth," is an ancient symbol deeply rooted in India's cultural heritage. The sceptre's association with centuries of tradition and its crucial role in India's history led to its selection as a prominent artifact to be showcased to the nation.
Recounting the historical context, Amit Shah shared that when the moment arrived for the transfer of power, Lord Mountbatten, the Viceroy of India, sought guidance from Prime Minister Nehru on an appropriate symbol that resonated with Indian traditions. Nehru, in consultation with freedom fighter and renowned historical scholar C. Rajagopalachari, discovered that the 'Sengol' sceptre perfectly embodied the essence of India's historic transfer of power.
Nehru received the 'Sengol' sceptre from the esteemed Adheenam of Thiruvavaduthurai in Tamil Nadu, specially brought to the capital for this momentous occasion. This symbolic exchange signified the return of power to Indian hands, echoing Nehru's vision of emotional unity and academic integration. The event garnered widespread media coverage, both within the country and abroad, leaving an indelible mark in history.
The 'Sengol' sceptre derives its name from the Tamil word 'Semmai,' meaning 'Righteousness.' Originating from the illustrious Chola kingdom, one of India's eminent ancient kingdoms, the 'Sengol' sceptre represents a cherished facet of the Indic civilization that thrived for centuries.
On August 14, 1947, as part of the power transfer ceremony, three individuals, including the Deputy High Priest of the Adheenam, a Nadaswaram player named Rajarathinam Pillai, and an Oduvar (singer), were specially flown in from Tamil Nadu. Together, they carried the 'Sengol' sceptre, accompanied by priests who meticulously conducted the proceedings.
The sceptre was ritually purified with holy water and subsequently carried in a grand procession to the residence of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, where it was officially presented to him. The occasion was further embellished by a special song performed as per the instructions of the high priest, creating a lasting memory of that historic day.
The decision to enshrine the 'Sengol' sceptre in the new Parliament building serves as a testament to India's enduring legacy
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