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Subject: History

  • In news: Mitakshara Law of Succession

    Central Idea

    • The Supreme Court clarified that children born from void or voidable marriages can inherit the parent’s share in a joint Hindu family property governed by Mitakshara law.
    • However, the inheritance rights are limited to the parent’s share and do not extend to other family members’ properties.

    Mitakshara School of Law

    History Originated in ancient India; attributed to Vijnaneshvara, a 12th-century scholar
    Focus Interpretation of Yajnavalkya Smriti in matters of family, property, and inheritance law
    Ancestral Property Emphasis on joint family property and ancestral property rights
    Inheritance Defines rules for succession and inheritance within Hindu families
    Variations Different regional interpretations, including the “Dayabhaga” School
    Regional Influence Widespread influence on Hindu legal practices, especially in property law
    Development Evolved over time and influenced by legal reforms and societal changes
    Modern Context Coexists with contemporary legal frameworks and personal laws
    Significance Played a significant role in shaping Hindu family and property law

    Nature of Marriages and Law

    • A voidable marriage is made invalid by the husband or wife through a decree.
    • A void marriage is invalid from the beginning.
    • Mitakshara Law of Succession applies to Hindu Undivided Families across India, except West Bengal and Assam.

    Ruling Details

    • The Supreme Court, headed by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, clarified that the child from a void or voidable marriage cannot claim rights to other family members’ properties.
    • The child’s inheritance rights pertain only to the parent’s share in the ancestral property.
    • A “notional partition” is conducted to ascertain the parent’s share immediately before their death.

    Inheritance Calculation

    • The law assumes a partition of the ancestral property between the deceased parent and other family members before the parent’s death.
    • The child’s inheritance is based on the share the parent would have received through this notional partition.

    Legal Basis

    • Section 16 of the Hindu Marriage Act grants legitimacy to children born from void or voidable marriages.
    • The court held that these children have the right to their parents’ property.
    • The intent of granting legitimacy to such children in the Hindu Marriage Act is reflected in the Hindu Succession Act.

    Impact of Amendment

    • The Hindu Succession (Amendment) Act, 2005, allows a deceased person’s share in a joint Hindu family property to devolve to heirs by testamentary or intestate succession.
    • Before the amendment, devolution occurred only through survivorship.
    • Equal rights of succession are now granted to women as well as men.

    Background and Precedents

    • The case was centered on Section 16(3) of the Hindu Marriage Act.
    • In 2011, a Division Bench of the Supreme Court championed the rights of children born from illegitimate marriages to inherit their parents’ properties.
    • The Division Bench emphasized that these children deserve the same rights as those born from valid marriages.

    Conclusion

    • The concept of legitimacy evolves with changing social norms.
    • The court observed that what was considered illegitimate in the past may be legitimate today.
    • Children born from void or voidable marriages should not be denied inheritance rights based on evolving social consensus.

  • 2023 Ramon Magsaysay Award to Indian Oncologist

    Ramon Magsaysay

    Central Idea

    • Dr. R. Ravi Kannan, a surgical oncologist and Director of Cachar Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (CCHRC) in Assam, has been named one of the 2023 Ramon Magsaysay Awardees.
    • His pioneering efforts have revolutionized cancer treatment in Assam by prioritizing people-centric and pro-poor healthcare solutions.

    Dr. Kannan’s Inspiring Work

    • Under Dr. Kannan’s guidance, CCHRC evolved from having limited facilities to encompassing 28 departments, including oncology, pathology, radiology, microbiology, epidemiology, and palliative care.
    • The hospital introduced pro-poor measures such as free treatment, lodging, meals, ad hoc employment for caregivers, and a homecare program to address patients’ challenges in continuing treatment due to poverty and distance.
    • The hospital team extended their support by providing training to family members in pain management and palliative care, and distributing free medicines.
    • As a result, the compliance rate for cancer treatment increased remarkably, from 28% to 70%.

    About Ramon Magsaysay Award

    • The Ramon Magsaysay Award, established in 1958, stands as a significant accolade, often referred to as Asia’s equivalent of the Nobel Prize.
    • This prestigious award honors individuals and organizations in Asia for their exceptional contributions to society across various domains.

    Who was Ramon Magsaysay?

    • Ramon Magsaysay was the Philippines’ president from 1953 until his tragic death in a plane crash in 1957.
    • He gained prominence during World War II when Japanese forces occupied the Philippines, then a US colony.
    • In December 1953, he was elected president from the Nationalist Party, the country’s oldest political party.
    • Post-war chaos gripped the Philippines in 1946, accompanied by a widening gap between the rich and poor, exacerbated by the expansion of capitalism.
    • Amidst suspicions of communist affiliations and demands for peasant rights, leaders were targeted by the government, aligned with the USA.
    • Magsaysay’s administrative and military strategies played a pivotal role in countering the perceived threat of communism.

    Indian Awardees: A Legacy of Excellence

    Eminent Indians have been recognized through the Ramon Magsaysay Award:

    1. Vinoba Bhave (1958)
    2. Mother Teresa (1962)
    3. Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay (1966)
    4. Satyajit Ray (1967)
    5. Mahasweta Devi (1997)
    6. Arvind Kejriwal (2006)
    7. Anshu Gupta of Goonj (2015)
    8. Bezwada Wilson, human rights activist (2016)
    9. Ravish Kumar, journalist (2019)

    Significance of the Award

    • The Ramon Magsaysay Award symbolizes a deep commitment to altruism and service, acknowledging outstanding contributions that make a positive impact on society.
    • It is a reminder that individuals and organizations can effect transformative change through their selfless efforts.

  • Supreme Court Ruling on ‘Self-Respect’ Marriages

    Central Idea

    • The recent Supreme Court ruling on ‘self-respect’ marriages under Section 7(A) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 has clarified the legal standing of these marriages.
    • The court’s decision has significant implications for the validity and recognition of such unions, particularly in the state of Tamil Nadu.

    Self-respect Marriages

    • Amendment: The Hindu Marriage (Tamil Nadu Amendment) Act, 1967 introduced Section 7-A into the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, applicable solely in Tamil Nadu.
    • Recognition of ‘Self-Respect’ Marriages: Section 7-A recognizes and legalizes ‘self-respect’ or ‘suyamariyathai’ marriages, allowing them to be solemnized without the need for traditional rituals or priests.
    • Ceremony Description: Such marriages are performed in the presence of relatives, friends, or other individuals, with couples declaring each other as spouses in a language understood by them. Exchange of garlands, rings, or tying a ‘thali’ (mangal sutra) is required. Registration remains obligatory.

    Legal Controversy

    • Madras High Court Ruling (2014): A 2014 Madras High Court ruling declared marriages solemnized by advocates as invalid, asserting that ‘self-respect’ marriages must not be secretive and should be celebrated publicly.
    • Current Supreme Court Ruling: The recent Supreme Court ruling, passed by Justices S Ravindra Bhat and Arvind Kumar, overruled the 2014 Madras High Court decision.

    Supreme Court’s Interpretation and Decision

    • The Supreme Court clarified that there is no blanket ban on advocates solemnizing ‘self-respect’ marriages under Section 7(A) of the Hindu Marriage Act.
    • The court held that ‘self-respect’ marriages can indeed be solemnized and recognized, and the 2014 Madras High Court ruling was set aside.
    • The ruling was delivered in response to a petition filed by Ilavarasan, who sought recognition of his ‘self-respect’ marriage and the release of his wife from her parents’ custody.
    • The Supreme Court’s decision is based on the interpretation of Section 7(A) and its application in the context of ‘self-respect’ marriages.

    Precedents and Past Rulings

    • In the case of Nagalingam vs. Sivagami (2001), the Supreme Court had already recognized the validity of ‘self-respect’ marriages under Section 7(A) of the Hindu Marriage Act.
    • The court emphasized that the presence of a priest is not obligatory for a valid marriage, and parties can enter into a marriage with the participation of relatives, friends, or other individuals.

    Conclusion

    • The recent Supreme Court ruling has resolved the ambiguity surrounding the legality of ‘self-respect’ marriages solemnized by advocates under Section 7(A) of the Hindu Marriage Act.
    • By overturning the previous Madras High Court ruling, the Supreme Court has clarified the validity and recognition of such marriages, ensuring that ‘self-respect’ marriages can be solemnized without the need for traditional rituals or priests in Tamil Nadu.

  • Evolution of Madras to Chennai: Tracing its Historical Transition

    madras chennai

    Central Idea

    • Madras Day celebrated on August 22, commemorates the foundation day of the city of Madras, now known as Chennai.

    The Birth of Madras

    • 1639: The East India Company (EIC) purchased the town of Madrasapatnam on August 22, 1639, laying the foundation for the modern-day city of Chennai.
    • British Presence: The EIC established trading posts and fortified settlements along the eastern and western coasts, leading to the emergence of Madras as a crucial hub.

    Transition from Madras to Chennai

    • British Rule: The region remained under British rule until India gained independence in 1947, with both the state and city referred to as Madras.
    • 1969: The state was officially renamed Tamil Nadu, and in 1996, Madras transformed into Chennai as a nod to its historical roots.

    Origins and Significance of Madrasapatnam

    • Origins of the Name: The origin of the name “Madras” remains debated, with theories suggesting connections to local fishermen, churches, and the term “pattinam” (town on the coast).
    • Pre-British History: Madrasapatnam had a history shaped by various rulers, including the Pallavas and Cholas, before the British arrival.

    Purchase and Founding of Madrasapatnam

    • Damarla Venkatapathy Nayak: Under his influence, the English were granted a piece of land between the Cooum River and the Egmore River in 1639, where Fort St. George was established.
    • Chennapatanam: The city around Fort St. George was named Chennapatanam, honoring Chennappa Nayak, which later inspired the name “Chennai.”

    Urban Growth and Development

    • Growth of the City: Over the centuries, Chennai evolved from Fort St. George and the Black and White towns into a significant urban center.
    • Institutionalization: Under Governor Elihi Yale, a mayor and Corporation were established, and areas like Egmore and Tondiarpet were acquired.

    Evolution to Tamil Nadu and Chennai

    • Post-Independence Era: After British rule ended, Madras province became Madras State.
    • Demand for Change: Various demands to rename the state as Tamil Nadu gained traction, with K P Sankaralinganar’s protest in 1956 being a pivotal moment.
    • Name Change: The renaming to Tamil Nadu was approved by Parliament in 1968 and came into effect in 1969.
    • Chennai’s Transition: Chennai’s renaming from Madras in 1996 was part of a broader trend to shed colonial influences, though British influence on these names’ evolution cannot be denied.

    Continuing Identity

    • The transformation of Madras to Chennai is not just a change in nomenclature, but a reflection of the dynamic interplay between historical heritage, regional identity, and post-colonial aspirations.
    • The city’s evolution stands as a testament to the diverse threads that weave India’s urban tapestry.

  • Sculptures shed light on ancient Mylara Cult

    mylara

    Central Idea

    The recent discovery of two sculptures in the Basrur region near Kundapura, Udupi (Karnataka), has brought to light the existence of the ancient Mylara cult in the coastal area.

    What is the news?

    • A remarkable sculpture, discovered in a well at Basrur, showcases a royal hero seated on a horse, wielding a sword and a bowl in his right and left hands, respectively.
    • Notably, this sculpture lacks the depiction of Mylaladevi on the horse’s back.

    About Mylara Cult

    • Mylara, a revered folk deity, is believed to be a divine incarnation of Lord Shiva.
    • Known by various names such as Mailara, Khandoba, Khanderao, and Khandnatha, this deity holds a diverse range of titles that highlight its multifaceted nature.
    • Its origins can be traced back to the 12th century Shaivite tradition, associated with the revered Lingayat saint and philosopher Siddharama, aka. Siddharameshwara or Siddhalinga.
    • The influence of the Mylara cult spans across the southern regions of India, encompassing Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.

    Historical Significance

    • Basrur was a thriving trading hub during the Medieval period, bustling with trading guilds like Uhayadesi and Nanadesi.
    • These guilds actively participated in trade, making Basrur a pivotal center for various cults and cultural exchange.
    • The Mylara cult, known for its prominence in the Deccan region, flourished in Basrur as well.

  • Last survivors of Piripkura tribe found

    piripkura

    Central Idea

    • Deep within the Amazon rainforest, the story of Tamandua Piripkura unfolds, embodying the struggle of Indigenous people.
    • This man is one of the last three survivors of the Piripkura people.

    Who are the Piripkura?

    • The Piripkura tribe is a small and isolated indigenous group in Brazil.
    • They are known for their extreme isolation and limited contact with the outside world.
    • They have intentionally avoided contact with mainstream society and have maintained their traditional way of life for generations.
    • The Piripkura territory is located in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil.
    • Their land lies within the Amazon rainforest, an area that is rich in biodiversity and crucial for the ecological balance of the region.

    Their dwindling population

    • The Piripkura tribe is estimated to consist of only 3 individuals.
    • Exact population figures are difficult to determine due to their isolation and the challenges associated with conducting a comprehensive census.
    • They face numerous challenges to their survival, including threats from illegal logging, mining, and land encroachment.

  • Megalithic Hat Stones unearthed in Nagaparamba

    megalithic

    Central Idea

    • Recent archaeological excavations in Tirunaya near Nagaparamba (Kerala) have brought to light a collection of hemispherical laterite stones known as hat stones or Thoppikkallu in Malayalam.

    Nagaparamba Megalithic Treasure

    • Thoppikkallu: Hat stones, referred to as Thoppikkallu in Malayalam, served as lids for burial urns during the megalithic era, offering a unique glimpse into burial practices.
    • Cultural Insights: The discoveries may provide valuable insights into the life and culture of the ancient inhabitants of the area, dating back more than 2,000 years.

    Unraveling the Mystery of Megaliths

    • Megalithic Structures: Megaliths were constructed as either burial sites or commemorative memorials, creating a distinctive landscape of archaeological significance.
    • Burial Remains: Examples of burial megaliths include dolmenoid cists, cairn circles, and capstones, each with its unique design and purpose.
    • Non-Sepulchral Megaliths: Non-burial megaliths, such as menhirs, hold a different purpose and significance.
    • Historical Context: The majority of Indian megaliths are attributed to the Iron Age, spanning from 1500 BC to 500 BC.
    • Regional Concentration: These intriguing structures are concentrated in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.

  • Red Fort’s symbolism for Independence Day

    red fort

    Central Idea

    • Every year on August 15, India commemorates its Independence Day with the hoisting of the national flag at the iconic Red Fort in Delhi.
    • This historic tradition, initiated by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, holds deep significance in India’s journey towards self-rule and liberation from colonial rule.

    About Red Fort

    • Constructed by: The Red Fort, also known as “Lal Qila” in Hindi, was constructed during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Its construction began in 1638 and was completed in 1648. It was designed to be the main residence of the Mughal emperors.
    • Architectural Marvel: The Red Fort is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, characterized by its red sandstone walls and intricate marble decorations. It combines Persian, Timurid, and Indian architectural styles.
    • UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Red Fort was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. It is recognized for its historical and cultural significance and its exceptional architectural design.
    • Layout: The Red Fort is a massive structure with walls extending over 2 kilometers. It is designed in the shape of an irregular octagon, with two main entrances: the Lahore Gate and the Delhi Gate.
    • Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas: The complex houses the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) and the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience). The former was used for addressing the general public, while the latter was reserved for private meetings and discussions.
    • Mumtaz Mahal: Within the complex, there is a white marble structure known as Mumtaz Mahal, often mistaken for the Taj Mahal. It is the burial place of Shah Jahan’s wife Mumtaz Mahal.

    Historical Significance of the Red Fort

    • Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Era: Under the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal rule, Delhi emerged as a pivotal capital city. It became synonymous with the seat of power, and the Mughals established their dominion from the magnificent Red Fort.
    • Symbolic Rulership: The Mughal emperors’ association with Delhi granted them symbolic legitimacy even as their actual authority waned. They continued to be recognized as the sovereign rulers of India, despite their diminishing control.
    • Rebellion of 1857: The Rebellion of 1857 further emphasized the Red Fort’s symbolic significance. The rebels rallied around the aged Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar, underscoring the fort’s role as a rallying point for indigenous authority.

    Impact of British Imperialism

    • British Rule and Red Fort: After suppressing the Rebellion of 1857, the British retained the Red Fort but stripped it of its grandeur. They transformed the fort into a British garrison, erasing elements of its Mughal heritage.
    • Co-opting Symbolism: Despite reducing Delhi’s significance, the British recognized its symbolic importance. The Delhi Durbars and the decision to shift the capital to Delhi from Calcutta highlighted its centrality and authority.

    Red Fort and India’s Independence Struggle

    • INA Trials: The Red Fort regained prominence during the Indian National Army (INA) trials, where INA officers were tried for treason. These trials evoked nationalistic sentiments and established the Red Fort as a symbol of resistance against British oppression.
    • Reclaiming for Independence: As India approached independence, Nehru’s decision to hoist the national flag at the Red Fort in 1947 symbolized the reclamation of this historical site from British colonial rule. It marked the assertion of India’s sovereignty and the culmination of its struggle for freedom.

    Key events

    • INA Trials: The Red Fort played a crucial role in the trials of the Indian National Army (INA) officers in the mid-1940s. The trials stirred nationalist sentiments and highlighted the site as a symbol of resistance against British rule.
    • Nehru’s Flag Hoisting: Jawaharlal Nehru’s decision to hoist the national flag from the Red Fort on August 15, 1947, signified the reclamation of the site from colonial dominance and marked India’s emergence as a sovereign nation.

    Annual Celebration and Symbolism

    • Continuing Tradition: The tradition of hoisting the national flag and delivering the Independence Day address from the Red Fort continues to this day.
    • Reclamation of Identity: The celebrations at the Red Fort annually emphasize the triumph of India’s struggle for independence and the reclaiming of its cultural and historical identity from colonial rule.

  • Evolution of the Malaiyali Tribe

    malaiyali

    Central Idea

    • The Malaiyali tribe, scattered across Tamil Nadu’s hilly regions, has undergone a remarkable transformation over two centuries.
    • From their initial foraging lifestyle to settling atop the Yelagiri hill and constructing traditional clay huts, the tribe has transitioned into a more modern way of life.
    • Amidst the evolving landscape, one old-fashioned hut remains as a testament to their history.

    Malaiyali Tribe

    • Historical Settlement: Over 200 Malaiyali tribespeople established a comprehensive system on Yelagiri hill with clay huts for shelter, storage, farming, and cattle.
    • Modern Evolution: Today, only one antiquated hut endures, belonging to tribesman Govinthasamy, while the rest have given way to brick-and-mortar homes.
    • Malaiyali Tribe: “Malai” means hill and “yali” means people, depicting the tribespeople who settled across Tamil Nadu’s hilly regions.

    Significance of Red Clay

    • Integral Material: Red clay played a pivotal role in building huts, burying the dead, and sustaining the tribe’s lifecycle from birth to death.
    • Unique Construction: Huts were constructed with red clay on teak wood frames, embodying the tribe’s connection to nature.
    • Practicality and Value: Despite its worn appearance, the hut holds immense value due to the scarcity and high cost of materials like teak wood.

    Distinctive Hut Features

    • Roofing: A 12-foot thatched roof made of dry bamboo leaves, waxed with cow dung to prevent leaks during monsoons.
    • Interior Space: Deceptively small from outside, the hut accommodates eight people and an attic for storing household items.
    • Functional Evolution: Originally meant for living, the hut transformed into a storage space for seeds during sowing and grains post-harvest.
    • Elevated Structure: The hut stands on a teak wood stilt to prevent flooding during heavy rains and deter rodents.
    • Storage Space: Stilts create additional storage beneath the house for grains or poultry.
    • Traditional Living: The one-room structure housed various activities, highlighting the tribe’s reliance on agriculture.

  • Who was Sant Guru Ravidas?

    ravidas

    Central Idea

    • Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for a ₹100 crore temple dedicated to Sant Ravidas in Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar.

    Guru Ravidas

    • Ravidas was an Indian mystic poet-saint of the Bhakti movement and founder of the Ravidassia religion during the 15th to 16th century CE.
    • Venerated as a guru (teacher) in the region of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and mainly Punjab and Haryana. He was a poet-saint, social reformer and spiritual figure.
    • The life details of Ravidas are uncertain and contested. Scholars believe he was born in 1450 CE, in the cobbler caste.
    • Ravidas’s devotional verses were included in the Sikh scriptures known as Guru Granth Sahib.
    • The Panch Vani text of the Dadupanthi tradition within Hinduism also includes numerous poems of Ravidas.
    • He taught the removal of social divisions of caste and gender and promoted unity in the pursuit of personal spiritual freedoms.

    Significance of his teachings

    • Philosophy and values of Sant Ravidas like social justice, equality and fraternity have been imbued in our constitutional values.
    • He had envisaged a society that is based on equality and free from any kind of discrimination.
    • He gave it the name ‘Be-gampura’ (a city near Lahore) where there is no place for any kind of grief or fear.
    • Such an ideal city would be bereft of fear, vulnerability or scarcity. Rule of law based on the right ideas like equality and welfare of all would be the principle for governance.