A symbol of power and prosperity, the ‘Sengol’ is a unique type of scepter that is conferred during the transfer of power. Its history dates back to the time of the Mauryan Empire, but it gained greater prominence during the reign of the Chola Empire. This article delves into the captivating story of Sengol, highlights its importance, and provides seven compelling proofs of its existence. Must read the article till the end.
The Fascinating History of Sengol
Sengol, a symbol of power and prosperity, is a unique kind of scepter bestowed during the transfer of power. Its history dates back to the Maurya Empire, but it gained greater prominence during the reign of the Chola Empire. This article delves into the captivating tale of Sengol, shedding light on its significance and providing seven compelling proofs of its existence.
Origins in the Maurya Empire
The roots of Sengol can be traced back to the Maurya Empire, where it was first utilized as a symbol of authority. Between 322 BC to 185 AD, during this period, the scepter played a vital role in the transfer of power.
Flourishing During the Chola Empire
Although its origins lie in the Maurya Empire, Sengol found greater prevalence and significance during the Chola Empire. The Chola rulers embraced this scepter as a representation of just and fair governance, believing that whoever possesses it would rule with righteousness.
A Symbol of Prosperity
Sengol is revered as a symbol of prosperity and abundance. It is believed that the possession of this scepter brings about prosperity not only to the ruler but also to the kingdom as a whole.
The Sengol in Indian Culture
The history of Sengol is deeply intertwined with Indian culture. It is regarded as a cherished artifact that carries the legacy of ancient traditions and values. The upcoming presentation of the Sengol scepter to Narendra Modi in the newly constructed Parliament House in India exemplifies its enduring relevance.
Testimony of Ancient Times
The antiquity of Sengol is evident, with its usage spanning centuries. Its presence in historical records and artifacts confirms its existence as a significant emblem of power and authority.
Symbolizing Just and Fair Rule
Throughout history, Sengol has been associated with the concept of just and fair governance. Those who possess this scepter are believed to rule with integrity and righteousness, ensuring the welfare of their subjects.
Hot Topic of Discussion
The imminent presentation of the Sengol scepter to Narendra Modi in the newly constructed Parliament House has sparked enthusiastic discussions. The event signifies the continuation of Indian cultural heritage and the bestowing of this revered symbol upon a respected leader.
History and Origin of Sengol in India: Tracing Its Ancient Roots
The Sengol, an emblem of power and authority, has a rich history and origin that can be traced back to ancient times. This article explores the fascinating beginnings of Sengol in India, its prevalence during significant empires, and its presence in world history, highlighting its diverse cultural significance.
Origins in the Mauryan Period
The history of Sengol is believed to have originated during the Mauryan period in India. Between 322 BC to 185 AD, the Mauryan rulers utilized the Sengol scepter as a symbol of authority during the transfer of power. It marked a significant moment in the governance of the empire.
Prevalence in Various Empires
The Sengol scepter continued to hold significance beyond the Mauryan period. It found prominence in other notable empires, including the Gupta Empire (320 AD to 550 AD), the Chola Empire (907 AD to 1310 AD), and the Vijayanagara Empire (1336 to 1646 AD). These empires incorporated the use of the Sengol scepter during the transfer of power, perpetuating its legacy.
Historical Significance in World History
The use of the Sengol scepter is not limited to India alone; it has a remarkable presence in world history. A prominent example is the Sovereignty Orb of the Queen of England, which was created in 1661 during the coronation of King Charles II. Since then, this practice has been continued in England, with each new monarch receiving the Sengol scepter. This tradition has been upheld for over 362 years, showcasing the enduring significance of this emblem.
Varied Names and Cultural Context
In different civilizations, the scepter, similar to Sengol, held importance under various names. In the Mesopotamian civilization, it was known as “Gidru,” with depictions found in ancient sculptures and inscriptions. The Gidru scepter symbolized the powers of gods and goddesses and the transfer of power within Mesopotamian society.
Greco-Roman Civilization’s Influence
The Greco-Roman civilization also recognized the significance of the scepter as a symbol of power. The scepter was associated with deities like Olympus and Zeus, embodying their authority. In ancient times, powerful individuals, army chiefs, judges, and priests wielded the scepter as a representation of their influence. Roman emperors even used a scepter made of elephant’s teeth known as “Septrum Augusti.”
Scepter in Ancient Egyptian Civilization
The ancient Egyptian civilization had its own version of the scepter, known as “Vaz,” which symbolized power and authority. It played a vital role in the ceremonial and administrative aspects of Egyptian society, reflecting the centralized authority of pharaohs and other ruling figures.
Former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru: A Recipient of the Sengol
One notable recipient of the Sengol scepter was Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India. This article explores the historical accounts surrounding Nehru’s acquisition of the Sengol, shedding light on the circumstances that led to this significant event.
Mountbatten’s Desire for Symbolic Independence
Historical evidence reveals that Lord Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of the British Government, sought to symbolize the country’s independence through Nehru’s participation. However, Nehru himself lacked knowledge about the significance of such a symbol.
Rajagopalachari’s Insight
To address Nehru’s lack of historical information, he turned to Rajagopalachari, a freedom fighter and former head of Madras, who possessed knowledge of diverse traditions. It was Rajagopalachari who enlightened Nehru about the prevalent scepter system in Tamil culture. According to this tradition, the king presents the scepter, also known as Sengol, to the new ruler as a symbol of power transfer.
Nehru’s Enthusiasm and Delegation
Learning about this practice, Nehru was delighted and entrusted the responsibility of acquiring the Sengol to Rajagopalachari. When Nehru assumed the role of the first Prime Minister of India, Lord Mountbatten bestowed upon him the Sengol scepter.
Nandi’s Figure on the Scepter
The Sengol scepter received by Nehru featured the figure of Nandi, the sacred bull associated with Lord Shiva. This addition enhanced the sanctity and significance of the scepter.
Arrival in Delhi and Consecration
The Sengol scepter, arriving in Delhi shortly before India’s independence, underwent a sanctification ritual. Ganga water was sprinkled on it, symbolizing its purification, and the scepter was officially handed over to Nehru. This momentous occasion occurred on August 14, 1947, at 11:45 pm.
Sengol Handed Over to Narendra Modi: A Historic Moment
On May 28, 2023, a significant moment in history unfolded as the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, inaugurated the new Parliament House. In a symbolic gesture reminiscent of 1947, the Sengol scepter was ceremoniously presented to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking another milestone in the Sengol’s journey.
Sanctification and Cultural Significance
As per the Sengol website, the Sengol scepter was first sanctified with water from the sacred Ganges. When Prime Minister Modi learned of this tradition, he recognized its effectiveness and its embodiment of our cultural heritage. In-depth research was conducted, leading to the reinstatement of this historic practice.
Ritual Handover to Prime Minister Modi
The Sengol scepter was placed near the Speaker’s Chair and formally handed over to Prime Minister Modi on May 28, 2023, following all the associated rituals and customs.
Historical Documents Supporting the Existence of Sengol
Amid questions surrounding the existence of Sengol, seven historical documents provide compelling evidence:
Historical Documents Supporting the Existence of Sengol
1-Time Magazine: An article published in Time magazine on August 25, 1947, explicitly mentioned the Sengol. The article detailed how Ambalavana Desigar ji, the revered abbot of a prominent Hindu monastery in Tanjore, South India, dispatched two messengers to present the scepter to Prime Minister Nehru. Desigar believed that as the country’s first Hindu Prime Minister, Nehru deserved to receive the symbol of power and authority from saintly figures akin to kings and emperors.
Accompanied by sacred rituals, including the sprinkling of holy Ganges water and the application of ashes on Nehru’s forehead, the golden Sengol scepter was bestowed upon him by the messengers, who dressed him in Pitambar attire. This historical account stands as proof of Sengol’s existence.
2-D.F. Karaka’s Book: Renowned journalist D.F. Karaka, in his book published in 1950, wrote on page 39 about the presentation of the scepter to Nehru by Sanyasis hailing from Tanjore.
3-“Freedom at Midnight”: The widely acclaimed book “Freedom at Midnight” by Dominique Lapierre and Larry Collins includes a chapter titled “When the world was sleeping.” This chapter narrates the incident of Nehru receiving the Sengol, offering further corroboration of its existence.
4-Bhimrao Ambedkar’s Writings: The Maharashtra Education Department issued a book compiling various speeches and writings of Bhimrao Ambedkar. On page 149 of this book, mention is made of the Sengol scepter.
5-“The Hindu”: In its Madras issue on August 11, 1947, “The Hindu” newspaper referenced the Sengol scepter.
6-The Indian Express: An article appeared in the Madras issue of the Indian Express on August 13, 1947, highlighting the Sengol and its association with Nehru. The article was titled “Golden Scepter For Pandit Nehru.”
7-The Statesman: On August 15, 1947, “The Statesman” newspaper’s news report on India’s Independence Day documented the handover of the Sengol to Nehru.
These seven historical documents, published in various renowned sources, provide tangible evidence of the Sengol scepter and its significant role in the transfer of power to Prime Minister Nehru during a momentous period in India’s history.
Conclusion
The Sengol scepter holds a firm place in history, as evidenced by the historical documents presented. Its 5,000-year-old legacy culminated in a momentous occasion when Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the Sengol during the inauguration of the new Parliament House. This event not only reinstated the cultural significance of the Sengol but also showcased its enduring presence in shaping India’s rich heritage.
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