Tamil Nadu's Historic 'Sengol' Sceptre to be placed in New Parliament.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Wednesday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will place the historic 'Sengol' (sceptre) near the Speaker's seat during the inauguration of the new parliament building on May 28.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted the immense significance of the Sengol, stating that on August 14, 1947, late Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru received the Sengol from Tamil Nadu at approximately 10:45 PM. In the presence of numerous senior leaders, he accepted it as a symbol of attaining independence, representing the transfer of power from the British to the people of the nation.

During his announcement, Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the notable significance of Sengol in Indian culture, specifically Tamil culture. He highlighted its historical importance, dating back to the Chola dynasty. The Minister disclosed that the esteemed Sengol would be situated within the New Parliament Building, representing a symbolic transfer of power. Prior to the official inauguration of the Parliament Building, Prime Minister Narendra Modi would receive the Sengol from Tamil Nadu, after which it would be prominently positioned near the speaker's seat.

Let’s understand what a Sengol is and what is its history:

THE CHOLA TRADITION

During the Chola era, the Sengol played a significant role in the coronation rituals of kings, carrying great importance. It functioned as a ceremonial spear or flagstaff adorned with intricate carvings and decorative elements. The Sengol held a sacred status as a symbol of authority, signifying the transfer of power from one ruler to the next.

The Chola dynasty gained renown for its remarkable contributions to architecture, arts, literature, and cultural patronage. The Sengol emerged as an iconic emblem of Chola rule, representing the power, legitimacy, and sovereignty of the Chola monarchs.

In the present day, the Sengol continues to be held in high regard and bears profound cultural significance. It is a symbol of heritage and tradition, playing an integral role in various cultural events, festivals, and important ceremonies. The presence of the Sengol serves as a tribute to and reverence for the rich history and legacy of Tamil culture.

SENGOL’S HISTORY

While deliberating on the symbolic ceremony marking the transfer of power from British rule to independent India, Viceroy Lord Mountbatten directed a query to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the inaugural Prime Minister of India. Mountbatten sought clarity on the suitable ceremony to symbolize this momentous occasion.

In response, Nehru turned to the counsel of esteemed statesman C. Rajagopalachari, widely known as Rajaji. Rajaji proposed drawing inspiration from the Chola dynasty's approach to power transition, which involved the consecration and blessing of the new king by esteemed priests.

As per Rajaji's account, the Chola model involved the symbolic transfer of the "Sengol" from one king to his successor, representing authority and power. This handover was accompanied by the "aanai" order in Tamil, emphasizing the responsibility to govern justly and fairly.

By incorporating the ceremonial handover of the Sengol, the adoption of the Chola model symbolically represented the transfer of power from the British to Indian hands. This decision showcased respect for ancient traditions and India's cultural heritage, while signifying the transition to an independent nation governed by principles of justice and fairness.

Rajaji approached the Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam, a monastic institution located in Tamil Nadu's Tanjore district, known for following the teachings and traditions of Lord Shiva.

The Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam, which has been functioning continuously for over 500 years, held a significant position among Adheenams. Recognizing their expertise and strong connection to justice and righteousness, Rajaji sought their assistance in preparing the Sengol, as stated in a government release.

The leader of the Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam was commissioned to create the Sengol. It was crafted to be approximately five feet long, featuring intricate details and symbolism. Notably, the Nandi (bull) positioned on top of the Sengol represented the concept of "Nyaya," denoting justice and fairness.

By entrusting the creation of the Sengol to the Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam, Rajaji and the involved leaders ensured that the sacred item would be crafted with utmost care, adhering to its traditions and spiritual significance.

The task of crafting the Sengol was assigned to the renowned Chennai-based jewellers, Vummidi Bangaru Chetty, a prominent name in the field. Notably, two individuals from the Vummidi family, namely Vummidi Ethirajulu (96 years old) and Vummidi Sudhakar (88 years old), were involved in the creation of the Sengol and are still alive today.

THE CEREMONY

On the historic day of August 14, 1947, three individuals were specially flown in from Tamil Nadu to participate in the symbolic transfer of power ceremony. Among them were the Deputy High Priest of the Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam, the Nadaswaram player Rajarathinam Pillai, and the Oduvar (singer), and they carried the Sengol with them.

These three individuals played crucial roles in conducting the proceedings of the ceremony. The Deputy High Priest presented the Sengol to Lord Mountbatten, who served as the Viceroy of India at that time, symbolizing the transfer of power. However, the release stated that he later retrieved the Sengol.

In accordance with the ritual, the Sengol underwent purification with holy water, emphasizing its sacredness and spiritual significance. After the purification, the Sengol was taken in a procession to the residence of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. In Nehru's presence, the Sengol was handed over to him. A special song, as specified by the High Priest, was sung during this momentous occasion.

These events unfolded during the night of August 14, 1947, marking a significant milestone in India's history as it embarked on its journey as an independent nation.