Sengol is a sacred spectre that holds immense significance with respect to India’s history, know its meaning and creator
On May 28, when the much-anticipated new parliament building is officially opened, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to make a historic gesture.
As stated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Prime Minister Modi would honorably install the illustrious “Sengol” (scepter) close to the Speaker’s illustrious seat. As he stressed, this symbolic action is extremely significant because it honors a crucial period in Indian history—the handover of authority from the British to the Indian people.
Explained hat is the Sengol spectre to be installed in the new India parliament building, its history, meaning and designer
#WATCH | Jithendra Vummidi, great-grandson of jeweller Vummidi Bangaru Chetty who made the 'Sengol', which was handed over to Pandit Nehru as a symbol of the transfer of power from the Britishers to India in 1947, explains the history and importance of the historic sceptre… pic.twitter.com/a7h0pYB2bE
— ANI (@ANI) May 24, 2023
#WATCH | Replica of the historic sceptre 'Sengol', handed over as a symbol of the transfer of power from the Britishers to India in 1947, placed at Vummidi Bangaru Jewellers in Chennai
It was used by former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru on August 14, 1947, when the transfer of… pic.twitter.com/8FGlpDjEAl
— ANI (@ANI) May 24, 2023
Shah emphasized in his statement the deep significance of the golden “Sengol,” which stands as a potent symbol of India’s arduous battle for freedom. He emphasized that the transfer of authority to the next Parliament should go beyond simple formalities like handshakes and paper signing. Instead, it needs to be firmly based on cultural customs and in line with the demands of the time.
Shah stated that he believed the Parliament, being the most revered and appropriate environment, would be the best place for the “Sengol.” According to him, this priceless object will serve as a reminder of the great age of “Amrit Kaal,” signifying the magnificent time when New India finally achieves its due place in the global community.
Since then, Sengol has become a trending search topic, with many people trying to know more about it. So, here’s what we know about it:
What Sengol?
The Sengol is a significant artifact that holds historical and cultural importance in India. It was created in Madras by the famous jeweler Vummidi Bangaru Chetty under the direction of C. Rajagopalachari.
This stunning five-foot-tall golden scepter has a Nandi, a holy bull, at its summit and is decorated with delicate floral motifs. It is 500 grams in weight and is quite synonymous with India’s independence.
The phrases “Sengol” and “Kol,” which relate to a scepter and righteousness, respectively, are derived from Tamil. A sengol, or smaller decorative royal insignia, is typically carried by kings and resembles a wand.
At the coronation ritual, the chief priest would, in accordance with Chola’s custom, offer the sengol to the new king, signifying the transfer of authority and acting as a mentor and embodiment of justice.
Its history
The Sengol is significantin the backdrop of India’s freedom. A priest from the Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam, a non-Brahmin Saivaite mutt in Tamil Nadu, initially presented it to Lord Mountbatten. However, it was temporarily reclaimed and purified with Ganga Jal, holy water from the river Ganges.
Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, eventually came to see the Sengol as a significant emblem of freedom. In the presence of other leaders, including Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Nehru received the Sengol on the momentous night of August 14, 1947, shortly before midnight.
By performing this ritual, the British government officially ceded control of India to an independent nation. The occasion was further elevated by the rendition of a special song composed for the event.