Prime Minister Narendra Modi was bestowed with the prestigious sceptre ‘Sengol’ by Adheenam priests on Saturday. The presentation of this traditional symbol of Tamil power came ahead of the grand inauguration of the new Parliament building.
The event garnered widespread attention, and legendary actor Rajinikanth expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for making Tamilians proud with this decision.
Taking to Twitter, Rajinikanth, a prominent figure in Tamil cinema, wrote, “The traditional symbol of Tamil power – the sceptre – will shine in India’s new parliament building. My sincere thanks to the honorable Prime Minister @narendramodi who made Tamilians proud.” His heartfelt message resonated with many, highlighting the significance of Sengol in Tamil history and culture.
The Prime Minister warmly received the Adheenam priests, who had flown down to the national capital for the occasion, at his official residence. Seeking their blessings, Modi expressed his delight over the installation of Sengol in the new Parliament building. In his address to the priests, he acknowledged the importance of preserving India’s great traditions and the responsibility of the government to remain accountable to the public.
“I am delighted that the symbol of India’s great tradition, Sengol, will be installed in the new Parliament building. This Sengol will keep reminding us that we have to walk on the path of duty and remain answerable to the public,” stated Prime Minister Modi with a sense of pride and reverence.
The historical significance of Sengol adds to the weight of this gesture. The five-feet long sceptre, made of silver and gold, was originally handed over by Lord Mountbatten to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on August 14, 1947, symbolizing the transfer of power. The government’s assertion regarding its historical origins was met with skepticism by the Congress party, dismissing it as “bogus.” Meanwhile, the Sengol itself, a symbol of governance in Tamil kingdoms of the past, was crafted by the renowned Chennai jewellers, Vummidi Bangaru Chetty, and had been on display at The Allahabad Museum.
Modi highlighted the lack of reverence shown to this esteemed artifact after India gained independence. “It would have been good if the holy Sengol would have been given its due respect after independence and given an honorable position. But this Sengol was kept on display as a walking stick in Anand Bhawan, Prayagraj. Your ‘sevak’ and our Govt have brought the Sengol out of Anand Bhawan,” the Prime Minister acknowledged, emphasizing the significance of its retrieval.
The installation of Sengol near the Speaker’s seat in the new Parliament will take place on Sunday, during the grand inauguration ceremony to be conducted by Prime Minister Modi. This historic event promises to mark a significant milestone, not only in India’s political landscape but also in acknowledging and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu.
As the nation eagerly awaits the formal opening of the new Parliament building, the inclusion of Sengol represents a symbolic bridge between the traditions of the past and the aspirations of the present. It stands as a testament to the Prime Minister’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating India’s diverse cultural heritage, fostering a sense of unity and pride among its people.