Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new Parliament building, where he installed the historic Sengol in the Lok Sabha chamber. The Sengol holds deep cultural importance, particularly in Tamil culture, and has a significant history in India.
The Chola Tradition:
During the Chola period, the Sengol played a vital role in the coronation ceremonies of kings. It symbolized authority and power, representing the transfer of power from one ruler to the next. The Chola dynasty was renowned for its contributions to architecture, arts, and culture, and the Sengol became an iconic symbol of their reign.
Sengol’s History with Independent India:
To symbolize the transfer of power from the British to Indian hands, the Chola model of power transfer was adopted. The Sengol was chosen as a sacred item representing authority and justice. The Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam, a respected Dharmic Mutt in Tamil Nadu, was entrusted with crafting the Sengol, ensuring adherence to traditions and spirituality.
Crafting the Sengol:
The task of creating the Sengol was assigned to renowned jewellers Vummidi Bangaru Chetty in Chennai. The Sengol, approximately five feet in length, incorporated intricate details and symbolism. Notably, the Nandi (bull) atop the Sengol represented justice and fairness.
The Symbolic Ceremony:
On August 14, 1947, as India gained independence, a symbolic ceremony took place. Three individuals from Tamil Nadu participated: the Deputy High Priest of the Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam, the Nadaswaram player Rajarathinam Pillai, and the Oduvar. The Deputy High Priest presented the Sengol to Lord Mountbatten, symbolizing the transfer of power. The Sengol was then purified with holy water and taken in a procession to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s residence, where it was handed over to him.
The Sengol’s installation in the new Parliament building marks a historic moment, honoring Indian culture and the symbolic transfer of power. Its rich history, rooted in the Chola dynasty, showcases the reverence for ancient traditions and the cultural heritage of India. The Sengol serves as a powerful emblem, representing authority, justice, and the journey of an independent nation.