The decision to rename the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library (NMML) Society has ignited a political controversy.
The institution will now be known as the ‘Prime Ministers Museum and Library Society’.
The controversy reflects the ongoing debate surrounding dynastic politics in India.
About the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library (NMML) (erstwhile)
NMML in New Delhi, is an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Culture.
It is a leading resource center on India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.
Established in 1964, it houses extensive archives, including Mahatma Gandhi’s writings and private papers of prominent figures like Swami Sahajanand Saraswati, C. Rajagopalachari, and Sarojini Naidu.
It is located in the majestic Teen Murti House, the official residence of the first Prime Minister of India.
It has four major constituents, namely, a Memorial Museum, a library on modern India, a Centre for Contemporary Studies and the Nehru Planetarium.
Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya (the PM’s Museum)
In April 2022, the NMML inaugurated the Museum as a new addition to the institution.
It is a tribute to every Prime Minister of India since Independence, showcasing their contributions to the nation’s development over the past 75 years.
Why rename it now?
The meeting acknowledged the contributions of all past and present Prime Ministers and expressed the mission of the Society to preserve India’s democratic journey and legacy.
It was felt that renaming the institution would better align with this purpose.
The Sant Tukaram and Sant Dyaneshwar Palkhi processions started their three-week-long journeys from the temple towns of Dehu and Alandi in Pune.
Pandharpur Wari
The deities are said to be shifted to Pandharpur right away from Vitthala Temple, Hampi (Karnataka) to avoid demolition.
Tradition: The Wari tradition is an 800-year-old pilgrimage in Maharashtra, where devotees, known as Warkaris, undertake a foot journey to the Vithoba temple (Incarnation of Vishnu) in Pandharpur.
Largest walking event: The event is said to be one of the world’s largest and oldest movements where people gather on one day each year and walk a distance of around 250 km.
Guinness Record: The Wari has been classified by the World Book of Records as “one of the most visited places in a day”
Essence of Wakari Panth: The Wari is a ritualistic practice and a distinctive part of Maharashtrian culture, representing the essence of the Wakari Panth, which is a sect within the Bhakti tradition.
Four Processions: The Wari takes place in four months – Chaitra, Ashadh, Kartik, and Magh. The Ashadhi Ekadashi Wari is the most popular and significant among these processions.
Historical Evolution
Changed over time: Over the years, the Wari procession has evolved with changing practices, associated legends, and unique systems of organization and management.
Influence of Sant Dyaneshwar: The Wari tradition can be traced back to Sant Dyaneshwar, the father of Sant Dyaneshwar, who played a pivotal role in promoting the pilgrimage to Pandharpur.
Legacy of Sant Namdev: Sant Namdev (whose verses find mention in Guru Granth Sahib), a contemporary of Sant Dyaneshwar, also followed the tradition and composed devotional compositions expressing his devotion to Lord Vitthala.
Rituals and Cultural Aspects
Dindi and Musical Fervor: Dindis, comprising groups of devotees, accompany the palkis during the Wari, singing, chanting, and dancing. Musical instruments like the veena and mridangam enhance the devotional fervor.
Seva Dindis and Social Initiatives: Seva Dindis perform selfless service along the Wari route, including annadana (donation of food), medical assistance, and rural infrastructure development.
Social Messaging and Initiatives: The Wari has been utilized as a platform for social messaging and initiatives such as promoting cleanliness through the ‘Nirmal Wari’ campaign and women-centric drives like ‘Wari Nari Shakti’ focusing on menstrual hygiene.
Try this PYQ:
Consider the following pairs:
Traditions Communities
Chaliha Sahib Festival — Sindhis
Nanda Raj Jaat Yatra — Gonds
Wari-Warkari — Santhals
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) None of the above
[wpdiscuz-feedback id=”uwlqiz3dsn” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]
Central Idea: This article revolves around the life, contributions, and legacy of Ram Prasad Bismil, a revolutionary figure in India’s freedom struggle against British colonial rule.
Ram Prasad Bismil
Birth: Ram Prasad Bismil was born on June 11, 1897, in Shahjahanpur district, UP.
Revolutionary activities: He actively fought against British Raj and participated in notable events like the Mainpuri Conspiracy of 1918 and the Kakori Train Action of 1925.
Founding of Hindustan Republican Association: Bismil established the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA, later known as the Hindustan Socialist RA) and played a pivotal role in the organization.
Sacrifice and execution: Bismil was hanged for his revolutionary activities on December 19, 1927, at the age of 30.
Early life and Arya Samaj connections
Upbringing and linguistic influences: Bismil was born into a Rajput Tomar family and learned Hindi from his father, Urdu from a nearby maulvi, and also studied in an English medium school in Shahjahanpur.
Association with Arya Samaj: Bismil joined the Arya Samaj during his childhood, becoming a prolific writer and poet. He used pen names such as ‘Agyat’, ‘Ram’, and the well-known ‘Bismil’.
Poem “Mera Janm”: At the age of 18, Bismil wrote the poem “Mera Janm” expressing his anger over the death sentence of Arya Samaj missionary Bhai Parmanand.
Major events associated to Bismil
(1) Mainpuri Conspiracy
Political disillusionment: Bismil became disillusioned with the moderate wing of the Congress Party and rejected negotiation or appeasement with the British.
Formation of Matrivedi: Bismil established the revolutionary organization Matrivedi and collaborated with Genda Lal Dixit, who had connections with dacoits and sought to utilize them in the armed struggle.
Mainpuri Ki Pratigya: Bismil’s famous poem, “Mainpuri Ki Pratigya,” was widely distributed in pamphlets across the United Provinces. He carried out acts of looting to gather funds for his organization.
(2) Founding the Hindustan Republican Association
Return to Shahjahanpur: After being underground for several years, Bismil returned to Shahjahanpur in February 1920.
Formation of HRA: Bismil, along with Ashfaqullah Khan, Sachindra Nath Bakshi, and Jogesh Chandra Chatterjee, founded the Hindustan Republican Association. Later, Chandra Shekhar Azad and Bhagat Singh joined the organization.
Release of the manifesto: Bismil played a significant role in penning the manifesto titled “Krantikari,” which was officially released on January 1, 1925. The manifesto called for an organized and armed revolution to establish a federal Republic of United States of India.
(3) Kakori Train Action
Objective and planning: The Kakori Train Action aimed to rob a train carrying treasury bags between Shahjahanpur and Lucknow.
Execution of the action: On August 9, 1925, around ten revolutionaries, including Bismil and Ashfaqullah Khan, stopped the train at Kakori station, overpowered the guard, and looted the treasury bags containing approximately Rs 4,600.
Consequences and crackdown: The action drew both British outrage and mixed responses from the Indian public. The misfiring of a gun resulted in the accidental killing of a passenger, Ahmad Ali, dampening public support. Subsequently, a violent crackdown led to the arrest of most involved, excluding Chandrashekhar Azad.
Death and legacy
Trial and sentencing: Bismil, along with Ashfaqullah Khan and Rajendranath Lahiri, faced a long trial and were ultimately sentenced to death.
Execution and martyrdom: On December 19, 1927, Bismil was executed at the age of 30, leaving behind a legacy of sacrifice and dedication to the cause of freedom.
Enduring influence and remembrance: Bismil’s poetry continues to inspire and his call for Hindu-Muslim unity serves as a symbol of communal harmony. He is remembered for his revolutionary spirit and deep concern for society, justice, and equality.
Central Idea: Naidu Hospital in Kottar (Nagercoil, TN), stands as a symbol of the forgotten heroes of the freedom movement, spearheaded by Dr. M. Emperumal Naidu, and their enduring impact on social justice
Who was Dr. M. Emperumal Naidu (1880-1958)?
Introduction to Naidu Hospital: Naidu Hospital, located in Kottar is a significant hospital with historical ties to the freedom movement and the fight for social justice.
Founder: M. Emperumal Naidu, a freedom fighter and associate of Mahatma Gandhi, established the hospital.
Contribution to Vaikom Movement: Naidu actively participated in the Vaikom temple street entry movement, following the footsteps of Periyar E.V. Ramasamy and his wife Nagammal.
Enduring the Struggle: Naidu faced adversity during the movement, including being splattered with limestone powder and standing in waist-deep rainwater with Gandhidas Muthusamy.
His Life and Achievements
Family and Education: Naidu’s ancestors hailed from Andhra Pradesh, and his father served as an artiste in the court of Travancore. Naidu studied at Scott Christian College in Nagercoil and later attended the Madras Medical College.
Involvement in Freedom Movement: Naidu became actively involved in the freedom movement while studying in England and declined a medical college offer to pursue a degree in Glasgow, aligning himself with the ideals of Gandhi.
Contributions to Healthcare: In 1914, Naidu established a hospital in Kottar, one of the first private hospitals providing modern medical treatment. He offered free treatment to Dalits and marked prescriptions with ‘HF’ (Harijan Free).
Leadership and Connections: Naidu played a crucial role in the Indian National Congress and hosted prominent leaders like Lala Lajpat Rai, C.F. Andrews, Sarojini Naidu, and Jawaharlal Nehru in Nagercoil.
Link to Gandhi: Naidu served as a vital link to Gandhi in Travancore and actively participated in various campaigns and Congress meetings alongside him.
Major contribution: Temple Entry Movement
Vaikom Temple Street Movement: Naidu, along with his wife and other volunteers, actively participated in the Vaikom temple street movement, advocating for equal rights and facing arrests and restrictions.
Continued Activism: Naidu continued organizing protests and campaigns, leading a protest in Suchindram to open temple streets to all communities in the Kanniyakumari district.
Achievements: Naidu’s relentless efforts for temple entry and the welfare of Dalits led to the Travancore government issuing a proclamation in 1936, opening temple doors and streets to all communities.
Delhi’s Purana Qila, also known as the Old Fort, is a historic site with a rich and diverse past.
Recent excavations have shed light on its continuous history since the pre-Mauryan era.
About Purana Qila
The origins of Purana Qila date back to antiquity, with the exact foundation period unknown.
It was later rebuilt by Sher Shah Suri and Mughal emperor Humayun.
The fort holds immense cultural and historical importance, and many believe it to be the site of Indraprastha mentioned in the Mahabharata.
The fort, believed to be the location of the ancient city of Indraprastha, showcases architectural remnants from various periods, including the Mughal and Rajput eras.
Architectural marvels at Purana Qila
Purana Qila’s architectural features include walls that rise to a height of 18 meters, spanning approximately 1.5 kilometers.
It boasts three arched gateways, including the Bara Darwaza, the south gate (Humayun Gate), and the Talaqi Gate.
The fort’s Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, built by Sher Shah Suri in 1541, showcases pre-Mughal architecture with its pointed arches and elegant prayer niches.
The Sher Mandal, a double-storeyed octagonal tower, served as Humayun’s private observatory and library.
It features decorative plaster-work and remnants of stone shelving for books.
Recent excavation discoveries
Excavations have uncovered significant artifacts, including shards of Painted Gray Ware pottery dating from 1200 BC to 600 BC, indicating the pre-Mauryan period.
Other discoveries include a 900-year-old Vaikuntha Vishnu from the Rajput period, a terracotta plaque of Goddess Gaja Lakshmi from the Gupta period, and a 2,500-year-old terracotta ring well from the Mauryan period.
Numerous beads, seals, copper coins, and a bone needle have also been found, highlighting the site’s role as a center for trade activities.
Cultural chronology and preservation
The ongoing excavation aims to establish a complete chronology of the site, spanning different historical periods from the Kushan to the Mughal era.
The remains of Purana Qila will be preserved, conserved, and transformed into an open-air museum to showcase the rich historical legacy of Delhi.
The excavated artifacts will also be displayed to delegates attending the G-20 summit, further promoting the cultural heritage of the site.
The construction and history of the Indian Parliament building serve as a reminder of India’s rich democratic traditions.
Dr BR Ambedkar, the Chairman of the Drafting Committee for the Indian Constitution, highlighted the presence of democratic aspects in Indian history that predate Western influence.
Democratic Traditions in Ancient India
Ambedkar had challenged the notion that India’s parliamentary procedures were borrowed from European countries.
Ambedkar referred to the Vinay–pitaka, a Theravada Buddhist scripture, as evidence of existing democratic procedures in India.
The scripture regulated meetings of the Bhikkhus Sangh (monks) and included rules for debates, motions, and voting through a secret ballot system.
Comparison with Western Democracies
Ambedkar acknowledged the importance of contributions made by Western democracies in moving away from autocracy and religious dominance.
He highlighted the separation of Church and State in Western societies and the transition to secular laws created by the people rather than divine or religious authorities.
Caution against Failure to Address Defects
Ambedkar pointed out the tendency of ancient societies to neglect repairing their own defects, leading to their decay.
He criticized the Indian society’s reliance on divine laws established by figures like Manu and Yajnavalkya, which hindered the ability to address societal issues.
Conclusion
While acknowledging India’s rich democratic history, it is essential to continue building and strengthening democratic institutions to address the evolving needs and challenges of society.
This includes fostering an introspective approach, embracing inclusive governance, and upholding the principles of secularism, equality, and social justice.
Back2Basics: Tripitaka
The Tripitaka, also known as the Pali Canon, is a collection of sacred Buddhist scriptures that form the foundational texts of the Theravada Buddhist tradition.
It is divided into three sections, known as the Tripitaka, which literally means “Three Baskets.”
History and significance
The Tripitaka was orally transmitted from the time of Gautama Buddha in the 5th century BCE until it was eventually written down in the 1st century BCE.
It holds immense historical and religious significance as it contains the teachings, discourses, rules, and guidelines given by the Buddha and his prominent disciples.
Composition of the Tripitaka:
(1) Vinaya Pitaka (Basket of Discipline):
Comprises the rules and guidelines for monastic discipline in the Buddhist community.
Provides detailed instructions on the conduct and behavior expected from monks and nuns.
Covers various aspects, including ethical guidelines, disciplinary codes, and procedures for resolving disputes.
Offers insights into the monastic life, the organization of the Sangha (monastic community), and the role of the monastic code in maintaining harmony and ethical conduct.
(2) Sutta Pitaka (Basket of Discourses):
Contains the discourses and teachings delivered by Gautama Buddha and his close disciples.
Includes a vast collection of discourses covering a wide range of topics, such as ethics, meditation, philosophy, and social issues.
Consists of individual suttas (discourses) grouped into different collections or Nikayas, such as the Digha Nikaya (Long Discourses), Majjhima Nikaya (Middle-Length Discourses), Samyutta Nikaya (Connected Discourses), and Anguttara Nikaya (Numerical Discourses).
Presents the Buddha’s profound teachings on the Four Noble Truths, the Noble Eightfold Path, dependent origination, and other core concepts of Buddhism.
(3) Abhidhamma Pitaka (Basket of Higher Teachings):
Provides a comprehensive and systematic analysis of Buddhist philosophy and psychology.
Explores the nature of mind, consciousness, and reality in intricate detail.
Presents the teachings in a more technical and analytical manner, offering an advanced understanding of Buddhist concepts.
Divided into seven books, known as the Abhidhamma books, which delve into topics such as consciousness, mental factors, elements, and the path to liberation.
Offers a deep exploration of the ultimate nature of existence and the workings of the mind.
Features and Characteristics
Authenticity and Authority: The Tripitaka is regarded as the most authoritative and authentic collection of Buddhist scriptures in the Theravada tradition.
Canonical Language: The texts are primarily written in Pali, an ancient Indian language close to the language spoken during the Buddha’s time.
Extensive Coverage: The Tripitaka covers a wide range of topics, offering comprehensive guidance for practitioners in various aspects of life.
Preservation of Early Buddhist Teachings: The Tripitaka is believed to preserve the original teachings of the Buddha, providing insights into his wisdom and teachings.
India is on the brink of a historic moment as it celebrates its 75th year of Independence with the inauguration of the new Parliament House on May 28. This remarkable event marks the transition from a century-old colonial-era building to a new structure that reflects India’s vision and aspirations in the post-independence era.
Challenges and Limitations of the Old Parliament House
Space Limitations: As the demands of governance have grown and evolved, the available space has become insufficient to accommodate the increasing number of staff, offices, and facilities required to support the functioning of the legislature. This space constraint has led to multiple additions and retrofits, such as the Parliament Annexe and the Parliament Library, but they have not fully addressed the need for modern and adequate facilities.
Infrastructure Constraints: The installation of additional wirings for computers, air conditioners, and security gadgets has cluttered the building and affected its aesthetic appeal. Safety concerns have necessitated measures like safety nettings in the Chambers and Central Hall to prevent the risk of falling tiles and plaster.
Technological Obsolescence: With rapid technological advancements, the old Parliament House struggles to meet the technological needs of the modern era. The building lacks state-of-the-art facilities for audio-visual communication, simultaneous interpretations in multiple languages, and efficient information management systems limiting the ability to leverage modern tools for improved legislative output.
Functional Limitations: The cramped working spaces, lack of dedicated facilities for MPs, and inadequate access to necessary resources and reports hinder the ability of legislators to perform their duties effectively. These functional constraints can hamper productivity and limit the quality of discussions and debates within the legislative body.
Historical Significance: While the old Parliament House holds historical significance and represents the journey of independent India, it also reflects a bygone era. The old building’s colonial-era architecture may not be best suited to symbolize India’s present and future ambitions.
How the New House is Equipped for the Future?
Spacious and Accessible: The new building offers increased space compared to the old Parliament House, allowing for better movement and functionality. It is designed to accommodate the growing number of MPs and staff, ensuring a more comfortable and accessible environment for all.
State-of-the-Art Technology: The new Parliament House is equipped with the most updated technology, enabling seamless communication and information sharing among lawmakers. It provides advanced audio-visual communication features, ensuring effective interaction and collaboration during debates and discussions.
Simultaneous Interpretation: The new building is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for simultaneous interpretation. This enables MPs to communicate and understand proceedings in their preferred languages, promoting inclusivity and facilitating effective participation from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
E-Library and Digital Resources: The new Parliament House offers access to an e-library and digital resources, providing lawmakers with easy and instant access to important reports, documents, and research materials. This promotes informed decision-making and enhances the capacity of legislators.
Energy Efficiency: The new building prioritizes energy efficiency through the use of sustainable design elements and eco-friendly systems. It incorporates renewable energy sources, efficient lighting, and climate control systems, reducing energy consumption and minimizing the ecological footprint.
Visitor Facilities: The new Parliament House includes publicly accessible museum-grade galleries and a Constitution Hall that showcase India’s democratic history. These spaces serve as educational resources for visitors, offering a deeper understanding of the country’s democratic values and principles.
Future Expansion: The new Parliament House is designed to accommodate future expansions and requirements. As the complex grows and evolves, provisions have been made to ensure that each member will have dedicated spaces for interacting with constituents, fostering closer engagement and representation.
New Parliament Building: An Opportunity for Efficiency
Responsible Parliamentary Conduct: Members of Parliament should prioritize constructive and meaningful debates, fostering a culture of respect, collaboration, and consensus-building. It is essential to move away from disruptive tactics and focus on substantive discussions that address the complex governance challenges of our time.
Reducing Disruptions: Long periods of deadlock and disruptions hinder the smooth functioning of Parliament. Efforts should be made to minimize disruptions and ensure that discussions remain focused on key issues. Rules and procedures can be reviewed to encourage more disciplined and productive parliamentary conduct.
Enhancing Communication and Participation: The new Parliament building, equipped with modern facilities, offers opportunities for better communication and engagement. Members should utilize these resources effectively to engage with constituents, share information, and seek feedback, fostering a more inclusive and participatory democracy.
Way forward: Preparing for New Challenges
Embracing Technological Advancements: The world is rapidly evolving, driven by advancements in technology. The Parliament should adapt to these changes by harnessing digital tools, promoting e-governance initiatives, and leveraging innovations like machine learning and artificial intelligence.
Legislative Reforms: Regular review and reform of existing laws and procedures are crucial to ensure their relevance and effectiveness in a dynamic environment. Parliamentarians should actively engage in legislative reforms, focusing on updating outdated laws, streamlining processes, and addressing emerging issues.
Capacity Building: Members of Parliament should be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to tackle complex policy challenges. Training programs, workshops, and knowledge-sharing platforms can help enhance their understanding of diverse subjects, enabling them to make informed decisions and contribute effectively to lawmaking.
Embracing Innovation and Research: Encouraging research and evidence-based policymaking can lead to more informed and effective legislative outcomes. Parliament should foster collaborations with research institutions, think tanks, and experts to access reliable data, analysis, and innovative solutions to address emerging challenges.
Facts for prelims
Important facts about Sengol?
Sengol is a historical sceptre that holds significant cultural and historical value in Tamil Nadu.
Derived from the Tamil word Semmai, meaning Righteousness, Sengol represents a symbol of justice and good governance and holds cultural significance as recorded in ancient Tamil texts like Silapathikaram and Manimekalai.
The presentation of the Sengol aligns with a traditional Chola practice where Samayacharyas (spiritual leaders) led the coronation of kings, sanctifying the transfer of power and symbolically recognizing the ruler.
It gained prominence during the transfer of power from the British to the Indian people at the time of India’s independence
Conclusion
The new parliament building symbolizes the journey of our Parliament from its past to the future, shaping the concept of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. As the fountainhead of people’s hopes and aspirations, particularly the younger generations, the new Parliament House will serve as a lighthouse guiding us towards the ambitious journey of building Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat. It is an opportunity for serious introspection, aiming to make our parliamentary conduct more efficient and productive.
Prime Minister is set to install the ‘Sengol,’ a historical sceptre from Tamil Nadu, in the new Parliament building, which will be inaugurated on May 28, 2023.
What is Sengol?
Sengol is a historical sceptre that holds significant cultural and historical value in Tamil Nadu.
Derived from the Tamil word “Semmai,” meaning “Righteousness,” Sengol represents a symbol of justice and good governance.
In the Chola era, the transfer of power from one king to another was sanctified with the sceptre being handed over as a symbol of authority and the responsibility to rule with fairness and justice.
It gained prominence during the transfer of power from the British to the Indian people at the time of India’s independence.
History: Traditional Chola Practice and Symbolism
Historical Practice: The presentation of the Sengol aligns with a traditional Chola practice where Samayacharyas (spiritual leaders) led the coronation of kings, sanctifying the transfer of power and symbolically recognizing the ruler.
Symbol of Justice and Good Governance: The Sengol, a symbol of justice and good governance, holds cultural significance as recorded in ancient Tamil texts like Silapathikaram and Manimekalai.
Sengol’s recent context and creation
LordMountbatten’s Question: Prior to Independence, Lord Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India, asked Nehru about the ceremony that should symbolize the transfer of power.
Inspiration from Chola Dynasty: Rajagopalachari, the last Governor-General of India, suggested a ceremony from the Chola dynasty, where the transfer of power was sanctified and blessed by high priests.
Manufacturing the Sengol: Rajagopalachari approached Thiruvaduthurai Atheenam, a renowned Shaivite mutt in Tamil Nadu’s Tanjore district, which commissioned the creation of the Sengol from Chennai-based jewellers, “Vummidi Bangaru Chetty.”
Craftsmanship: Vummidi Ethirajulu and Vummidi Sudhakar skillfully crafted the five-foot-long Sengol, featuring a symbolic ‘Nandi’ bull representing justice.
Significance of the ‘Sengol’
Symbolic importance: Derived from the Tamil word “Semmai,” meaning “Righteousness,” the ‘Sengol’ represents a significant historical symbol of Independence.
Marks Transfer of Power: On August 14, 1947, Pandit Nehru, the first PM, received the ‘Sengol’ from the Adhinam of Tamil Nadu, marking the shift of power from the British to the Indian people.
The Handover Ceremony
Arrival of the Sengol: Three individuals, including the deputy high priest of the Adheenam, a Nadaswaram player, and an Oduvar (singer), brought the newly made Sengol from Tamil Nadu.
The Ceremony: On August 14, 1947, the Sengol was handed over to Lord Mountbatten during a procession, and later taken to Jawaharlal Nehru’s house, where it was officially presented to him.
Sacred Song and Attendees: A special song composed by the 7th-century Tamil saint Tirugnana Sambandar, as specified by the high priest, accompanied the ceremony. Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first president, and other dignitaries were present during the event.
Ceremonial Procession and Tamil Traditions
Grand Procession: The Sengol will be ceremoniously transported to the House in a grand procession.
Musical Ensemble: Traditional Nadaswaram musicians, playing Tamil Nadu’s iconic instrument, will lead the procession, and PM is expected to walk alongside them, embracing Tamil culture.
Adheenams and Sanctification: Adheenams, priests from Shaivite mutts in Tamil Nadu, will be present in the Lok Sabha’s Well. They will sanctify the Sengol with holy water after Prime Minister Modi greets them, honoring Tamil traditions.
Oduvars and Sacred Recitation: Tamil temple singers known as Oduvars will recite the “Kolaru Padhigam” lyrically, while the Nadaswaram musicians enchant with their soulful music.
Conclusion
The Sengol continues to be revered as a representation of India’s independence and serves as a tangible reminder of the country’s rich cultural heritage and the values it upholds.
Its installation in the new Parliament building further emphasizes its importance and aims to educate and inspire people about this historical event and the principles it embodies.
The landowner of a disputed area in Arunachal Pradesh has demanded either compensation from Army for a land where Army has built Gurdwara near the Neh Pema Shelphu Shrine.
Neh Pema Shelphu Shrine
It is a holy shrine located in the Mechukha Valley of Arunachal Pradesh.
It holds significant religious importance for the local Memba Buddhist community.
The shrine is believed to have been sanctified by Guru Padmasambhava, a prominent figure in Tibetan Buddhism, during his exploration of the area in the 8th century AD.
It has been a place of worship and pilgrimage for the Memba people since 1274 AD, according to historical records.
It attracts hundreds of Buddhists who visit the shrine annually during a pilgrimage in March.
Why in news?
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee claimed the shrine associated with Guru Nanak Dev, the first Sikh Guru, in Arunachal Pradesh has been turned into a Buddhist shrine.
