The Sengol, installed in India’s new Parliament building in 2023, has been included in the latest NCERT Class 9 textbook, Understanding Society and Beyond – Part 2. The textbook presents it as a symbol of the Chola tradition of righteous governance and connects it with India’s transfer of power in 1947.
Historical and Cultural Significance of the Sengol
The term Sengol is associated with the Tamil idea of semmai, meaning righteousness and just governance. It symbolises the responsibility of a ruler to uphold justice and serve the people, contrasting with Kodungol, associated with unjust rule.
- Tamil Literature: References to righteous rule and the sceptre appear in classical works such as Silappadikaram, Tirukkural, Purananuru, Kurunthogai and Tholkappiyam.
- Symbol of Authority: The Sengol was traditionally associated with royal ceremonies and represented the ethical responsibilities accompanying political power.
- Kingdom Symbolism: Tamil traditions regarded the sceptre as an important symbol of sovereignty and just administration.
Sengol and India’s Independence in 1947
The Sengol gained a modern historical association with India’s Independence. C. Rajagopalachari (Rajaji) suggested its use as a ceremonial representation of the transfer of authority from British rule to independent India.
The Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam, a Saivaite institution in Tamil Nadu, commissioned a gold-plated silver Sengol featuring a Nandi.
On 14 August 1947, the Sengol was brought to Delhi and ceremonially presented to Jawaharlal Nehru following traditional rituals. It came to represent the transfer of political authority along with the responsibility to govern ethically.
The Sengol was subsequently installed in the new Parliament building in 2023. Its Nandi figure is associated with steadfastness, justice and the commitment to truth (Nyaya), reinforcing the broader message of responsible governance.
FAQs on Sengol
What is the historical significance of the Sengol?
The Sengol symbolises the transfer of political authority and the responsibility of righteous governance. It became associated with India’s Independence in 1947.
Who suggested the use of Sengol during India’s Independence?
C. Rajagopalachari (Rajaji) suggested using the Sengol as a ceremonial representation of the transfer of authority from British rule to independent India.
Who commissioned the Sengol presented in 1947?
The Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam, a Saivaite institution in Tamil Nadu, commissioned a gold-plated silver Sengol featuring a Nandi.
When and to whom was the Sengol presented?
The Sengol was brought to Delhi and ceremonially presented to Jawaharlal Nehru on 14 August 1947, following traditional rituals.
Where is the Sengol located today?
The Sengol was installed in India’s new Parliament building in 2023, where it represents righteous governance, justice and the responsibility associated with political power.
