Delve into the life and times of Veer Savarkar, a multifaceted figure whose ideas continue to shape Indian society. This cover story explores his profound impact on nationalism, social reform, and the quest for freedom, offering fresh insights into his enduring legacy.
Vinayak Damodar Savarkar ‘s name struck fear into the hearts of the British colonial rulers, resonating prominently throughout the annals of the Indian freedom struggle. However, despite his significant role, certain leaders tarnished his reputation, branding him as communal and portraying him as a menace to the nation’s integrity.
In recent times, Randeep Hooda’s portrayal of ‘swatantryaveer Savarkar’ has sparked widespread discussion, leaving an enduring impression on society. The film meticulously unveils Savarkar’s journey, from the inception of the clandestine society of Abhinav
Bharat to his involvement with India House. It delves into his steadfast adherence to the teachings of Bal Gangadhar Tilak, his ideological disagreements with Mahatma Gandhi, and his vehement opposition to tyranny and oppression.
By bringing Savarkar’s life to the forefront, the film endeavors to restore the honor of this revolutionary figure, shedding light on his relentless campaign against untouchability and religious fanaticism. Savarkar’s prophetic insights from the pre-independence era reverberate with the sociopolitical landscape of modern-day India, igniting debates, challenging historical narratives, and reigniting interest in his multifaceted persona.
The journey of the young boy who migrated from his hometown, Bhagur, in Nashik district to Pune was arduous. A student at the esteemed Fergusson College in Pune, Savarkar received guidance from luminaries such as Lokamanya Tilak.
During his college years, Savarkar’s arrest for inciting like-minded individuals to protest by torching British goods and clothes marked a direct confrontation with the ruling British authorities. Subsequently, he pursued legal studies in England, where his efforts for Indian independence gained momentum.
Savarkar, a visionary freedom fighter, demonstrated foresight in numerous political affairs of the country. His assertion that India’s non-violent Satyagraha movement would eventually culminate in armed struggle was prophetic. The formation of Netaji’s Azad Hind Sena and the subsequent fissures within the British military during World War II attested to Savarkar’s vision. His departure from the country left a void, underscoring the significance of his vision for India’s freedom struggle.
Shivaji Maharaj: The inspiration
Shivaji Maharaj, the legendary Maratha warrior king, left an indelible mark on Indian
history with his valor, strategic prowess, and commitment to justice. His vision of a strong, independent Maratha kingdom inspired countless individuals, including Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, better known as Veer Savarkar.
Veer Savarkar was deeply influenced by Shivaji Maharaj’s principles of valor, self- respect, and nationalism. Savarkar hailed from the same soil as Shivaji and grew up amidst tales of the Maratha king’s heroism, which shaped his worldview and aspirations.
One of the key aspects of Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy that resonated with Savarkar was his defiance against foreign oppression. Shivaji Maharaj challenged the mighty Mughal Empire and established a sovereign Maratha state against all odds.
Similarly, Savarkar envisioned a free and united India, liberated from the shackles of colonial rule. He drew inspiration from Shivaji Maharaja’s courage to stand up against tyranny and believed in the imperative of armed resistance for national liberation.
Both Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Veer Savarkar harbored an extraordinary resentment of slavery. They both dedicated themselves entirely to liberating the country from oppression. Even those who called out Shivaji Maharaj as a misguided patriot, correct themselves stating
shivaji Maharaj is not only the savior of Maharashtra and India but also a beacon of hope for the world. Those who seek to fight for freedom will find inspiration and strength in the life of Shivaji Maharaj!
It is widely known that Shivaji Maharaj used to gather friends around him from a very young age. By endearing himself to people from all walks of life, he, along with his entourage, took the oath of independence before the Raireshwar Mahadeva.
Similarly, at a very young age, Savarkar took the oath of independence in front of the idol of deity Durga Bhavani at their home in Bhagur. But both got to see in their lifetime the freedom, the sovereign freedom, for which there was so much ridicule. Shivaji Maharaj was crowned on the golden throne, Savarkar had the good fortune to see India gain independence.
It must be said that the thoughts of Maharaj and Savarkar were on the same page when it comes to nation building. Both did a lot of work against anti-national stereotypes. During the Maharaja’s time, it was believed that if one crossed the sea beyond ten miles, his religion would sink, it would be corrupted, it would be lost. This tradition was broken by Maharaj in such a reckless manner that even religious scholars did not have the sense to oppose him.
Maharaja’s army consisted of people from all castes. They unitedly fought for Swarajya. Savarkar was eager to bring this sense of unity created by Maharaj very easily in the entire society, for this he did every activity. Patit Pawan temple built by Savarkar in Ratnagiri would be the first restaurant open to Harijans. Savarkar continued to work for unity among all castes in the society.
Savarkar’s role model was Shivaji Maharaj who lived a brave life in all aspects. In fact, there was a gap of two hundred years between the two. But it must be said that Savarkar was an ideological heir of Shivaji Maharaj in terms of patriotism, talent,
achievement, prowess, and vision. Speaking about Savarkar in one place, Shivshahir
Babasaheb Purandare said –
Shivaji Maharaj’s Bhavani sword and Savarkar’s pen, both had the same edge. Both had the same vow – परित्राणाय साधूनाम् विनाशायच दुष्कृताम्.
Savarkar and Gandhi
The comparison between Vinayak Damodar Savarkar and Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi is almost inevitable when examining India’s struggle for independence. Despite their contrasting ideologies and methods, their profound impact on the course of Indian history ensures that their legacies remain intertwined. Comparing the roles of Savarkar and Gandhi reveals their shared commitment to India’s independence, albeit with differing approaches and outcomes. While Gandhi’s popularity and advocacy of Satyagraha garnered global acclaim, Savarkar’s steadfast dedication to Hindutva throughout his life led to his political marginalization, particularly by his own community. The disparity in their reception raises questions about the perception of Hindutva in Indian society and the contrasting interpretations offered by Gandhi’s spiritual ethos and Savarkar’s political Hindutva.
Savarkar’s Hindutva, focused on asserting Hindu political and civil rights, diverged from Gandhi’s spiritual interpretation, emphasizing the supremacy of Hindu society. Despite his logical approach, Savarkar’s ideas faced resistance, as society often favored emotional appeals over rational discourse. Gandhi’s ability to connect with the masses through a blend of truth and empathy enabled him to resonate more deeply with the public compared to Savarkar’s logical arguments, which often failed to sway popular opinion.
In essence, both Gandhi and Savarkar espoused truths aimed at empowering the Hindu community, yet their divergent methods and receptions underscore the complexities of societal engagement. While their messages of unity and dialogue echoed a shared vision, societal barriers hindered the widespread acceptance of their ideals, leaving a gap between aspiration and realization.
Andaman and Savarkar
The Andaman Islands, a remote archipelago in the Bay of Bengal, hold a significant place in India’s colonial history and the life of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, commonly known as Veer Savarkar. These islands, once a dreaded penal colony under British rule, witnessed the incarceration and struggles of countless freedom fighters, among whom Savarkar’s story stands out as a testament to resilience and indomitable spirit. Savarkar’s connection with the Andaman Islands began in 1910 when he was sentenced to life imprisonment for his revolutionary activities against British colonialism. Transported to the Cellular Jail, also known as Kala Pani, Savarkar endured years of harsh imprisonment, solitary confinement, and brutal treatment at the hands of his captors. Despite the unimaginable hardships, Savarkar remained steadfast in his commitment to India’s freedom and continued to inspire fellow inmates with his courage and defiance.
Social Reformer Savarkar
For someone who is driven by the thought to reform the society should only be driven by the desire to do good and it should be stamped on their mind. Reformers who launch a scathing attack on any evil social custom, which means locking horns with any persistent yet baseless social belief of a major chunk of society are always at the receiving end and have to face herculean tasks. However, for the rationals, they are tagged to be the ones who ‘disturb the social balance’.
Savarkar approached the institution of caste with a scientific lens, recognizing its historical significance in shaping Hindu society. In his reflections, he acknowledged the role of birth-based caste divisions in the cohesion and endurance of Hindu society under specific circumstances.
However, he cautioned against solely attributing negative consequences to caste divisions without considering its historical context and complexities. Rejecting the notion that caste division was solely orchestrated by Brahmins or Brahmins and Kshatriyas, Savarkar emphasized collective responsibility across all castes for perpetuating caste-based discrimination. He argued that scripture-based caste divisions empowered even lower castes to assert dominance over others, thereby implicating all castes in its preservation and continuation.
Savarkar rebelled against the notion of scripture-based caste division, likening it to a
mental ailment that could be cured through the rejection of its acceptance. He challenged the idea that caste divisions were inherent to Hindu Dharma, asserting that they were merely social practices that could be dismantled without undermining the essence of Sanatana Dharma.
Regarding caste-based organizations, Savarkar adopted a pragmatic stance, advocating for their selective engagement to leverage their positive aspects in the pursuit of caste abolition. He cautioned against outright boycotts, recognizing the potential utility of these organizations in effecting broader social change. In summary, Savarkar’s approach to caste was nuanced, acknowledging its historical roots while advocating for its abolition through collective responsibility and pragmatic engagement with existing social structures.
The final days
In September 1965, prior to the Indo-Pak war, Savarkar’s health had deteriorated significantly, prompting newspapers to report on his declining condition daily. President Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan had expressed genuine concern and inquired about his well-being. During this time, Savarkar had handed out a leaflet expressing his desire that the government not retract any steps taken forward by India, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the country even in illness.
The decision of fast unto death by Savarkar was not sudden; it was a gradual process. He began by gradually abstaining from food, starting with rice,
then eliminating tea and coffee from his diet until he was subsisting solely on water. On the 2nd of February 1966, he formally commenced his fast unto death.
A few days prior to this decision, Dr Sathe, Savarkar’s medical advisor, had assured that Savarkar’s health would remain stable for at least another five years. Vishwas Savarkar recounted in an article that attempts were made by Dr. Godbole, Dr. Purandare, Dr. Kale, and others to dissuade Savarkar, including secretly administering saline to help him sleep. However, Savarkar vehemently refused any attempts to revive him, warning that he would bar doctors from entering his room if such attempts persisted.
On February 19, 1966, Savarkar’s health took a turn for the worse. He confided in his son, stating, ” Now my end is near.” Though there seemed to be a brief improvement in his condition over the next two days, by February 22, his health had deteriorated once more.
Efforts to save him intensified on February 26, with doctors working diligently from 9 am onwards. Oxygen tubes were administered, and attempts were made to stimulate breathing by applying pressure to his heart. Ultimately, despite all efforts, Savarkar passed away at 11:00 am, expressing satisfaction that he had fulfilled all his duties.
In conclusion, the life and legacy of Savarkar stand as a testament to the unwavering spirit of resilience, courage, and patriotism. Through his indomitable resolve and relentless pursuit of freedom, he left an indelible mark on the pages of Indian history. His multifaceted contributions, spanning from his revolutionary writings to his sacrifices for the nation, continue to inspire generations. As we reflect on his journey, we are reminded of the enduring importance of his ideals in shaping the destiny of a nation and the boundless potential within each of us to strive for a brighter, more just future. Savarkar’s legacy serves as a beacon of hope, guiding us towards a tomorrow built on the pillars of unity, integrity, and freedom for all.
Authored by :
ROHAN AMBIKE
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