SENGOL (Syllabus GS Paper 1 – History)

Context: Opposition has demanded that Sengol be removed from Parliament.

Sengol

• About: It is a sceptre that symbolizes the transfer of power from the British to the Indians, marking India's Independence.
• History of Sengol

oChola Empire Origin: The history of Sengol dates back to the Chola Empire, where it was believed to be used in the coronation ceremony of Thirumayam Setupati in 1645.

oSymbol of Legitimacy: According to historians, the Sengol sceptre served as a symbol of legitimacy and succession within the Chola lineage.

oModern Crafting: In more recent history, the famous jeweller Vummidi Bangaru Chetty from the Madras Presidency, along with Vummidi Ethirajulu and Vummidi Sudhakar, crafted the Sengol.

oPresentation: On the eve of August 14, 1947, Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam presented the Sengol to Jawaharlal Nehru, marking the symbolic transfer of power.

Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam

• About: Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam is a prominent Shaiva monastic organization based in Dharmapuram, Tamil Nadu. It was established in the 10th century by Tirugnanasambandar.
• Historical Relevance: It is one of the oldest and most revered Adheenams (monastic institutions) in the Shaiva tradition, established in the 10th century by the sage Tirugnanasambandar, one of the four main Nayanars (saints) of Shaivism.
• Features: The Adheenam focuses on promoting Shaivism's teachings, rituals, and literature, including publishing Thevaram and Tiruvasakam.