"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

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A Physician and Freedom Fighter Unites India with Oldest Ganeshotsav

India's vibrant festival season is often marked by the grand celebration of Ganeshotsav, where homes are adorned with flowers and lights to welcome Lord Ganesha. But have you ever wondered about the fascinating history behind this iconic festival? Let us take you on a journey back in time, over a century ago, to uncover the remarkable origin story of India's oldest public Ganeshotsav. A Message of Unity in Colonial Times In the late 19th century, when India was fervently battling against British colonial rule, a visionary named Krishnajipant Khasgiwale sought to demonstrate India's unity through a remarkable festival. During his visit to Gwalior in 1892, Krishnajipant witnessed the traditional public celebration of Lord Ganesha and was inspired to bring it back to Pune, his hometown.  Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari: The Royal Physician and Freedom Fighter It was in Pune that Krishnajipant shared his newfound inspiration with two prominent individuals, Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari and Balasaheb Natu. Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari, a renowned royal physician and an ardent freedom fighter, recognized the potential of this festival to foster unity among countrymen. He decided to take it a step further by installing the first saarvajanik, or public, Ganesha idol in his own residence in Shalukar Bol. A Powerful Symbol of Resistance The Ganesha idol installed by Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari was unlike any other. It depicted Lord Ganesha in a fierce form, triumphantly slaying a demon, rather than the usual calm and composed portrayal. This unique representation symbolized India as a nation fighting for its freedom against the colonialists. The idol, crafted from wood and bran, stood as a powerful reminder of the collective strength and determination of the Indian people. Recognition and Endurance Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari's efforts did not go unnoticed. Lokmanya Tilak, a prominent freedom fighter and social reformer, lauded his initiative in an article published in the renowned newspaper Kesari. Tilak recognized the significance of the Ganeshotsav in mobilizing the masses and fostering a sense of nationalistic pride. Over 100 years later, the original idol made of paper pulp, still preserved at Bhausaheb Rangari's wada, continues to be worshipped, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of India's oldest Ganeshotsav. The Modern-day Impact and Significance Ganeshotsav has come a long way since its humble beginnings. It has evolved into a grand celebration, embraced by millions across the country. The festival not only holds religious and cultural significance but also serves as a platform for social cohesion and community development. Through the collective participation and devotion of individuals, Ganeshotsav continues to foster a sense of unity and pride among the diverse communities.  Celebrating India's Oldest Ganeshotsav As we celebrate Ganeshotsav each year, it is essential to reflect on its fascinating history and the visionary individuals behind its inception. Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari's innovative approach to uniting the Indian people through a public celebration of Lord Ganesha's victory over evil continues to inspire generations. Let us cherish this remarkable festival and its underlying message of unity, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of the Indian people.

8 Feb 2024
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Sardar Udham Singh: A Tale of Courage and Justice that Inspires Generations

In the annals of India's freedom struggle, there are countless stories of bravery and sacrifice that deserve recognition. One such remarkable tale is that of Sardar Udham Singh, a visionary freedom fighter who dedicated his life to seeking justice for the victims of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. His indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to the cause continue to inspire generations. Born as Sher Singh on December 26, 1899, in Sunam, Punjab, Udham Singh grew up in a politically charged atmosphere, witnessing firsthand the atrocities of British colonial rule. The tragic event that left an indelible mark on his life took place on April 13, 1919, in Amritsar, where thousands of innocent Indians gathered at Jallianwala Bagh to protest against the repressive Rowlatt Act. General Reginald Dyer, in a shocking display of brutality, ordered his troops to open fire on the unarmed crowd, resulting in the deaths of hundreds and injuring thousands more. The massacre left a deep scar on Udham Singh's soul, fueling his determination to avenge the lives lost and bring justice to the victims. He transformed himself into a fearless revolutionary, adopting the name Sardar Udham Singh. For over two decades, he embarked on a relentless pursuit to hunt down and eliminate Michael O'Dwyer, the former Lieutenant Governor of Punjab, who had approved the massacre. Udham Singh's quest for justice took him across continents. After years of meticulous planning and enduring numerous hardships, he finally achieved his objective on March 13, 1940, when he assassinated Michael O'Dwyer at a public gathering in London. Udham Singh's act of retribution sent shockwaves across the world, symbolizing the undying spirit of resistance against oppression. Arrested immediately after the assassination, Udham Singh faced trial and was sentenced to death. Throughout the legal proceedings, he remained resolute, using the platform to expose the heinous crimes committed during the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and to advocate for the cause of Indian independence. His powerful words echoed the sentiments of millions and further ignited the flames of the freedom struggle. On July 31, 1940, Sardar Udham Singh attained martyrdom, embracing the gallows with unwavering courage and conviction. His sacrifice became a rallying cry for the nation, fueling the determination of countless individuals to fight for their rights and overthrow the shackles of colonial rule. In recognition of his immense contribution to the freedom struggle, Udham Singh's sacrifice was immortalized through various memorials and commemorations. The Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial, established in Amritsar, stands as a solemn reminder of the lives lost and the resilience of those who fought for independence. As we remember Sardar Udham Singh, let us carry forward his message of courage, determination, and unwavering commitment to justice. May his story serve as a constant reminder that one person can indeed make a profound impact on the world and that the fight for justice and freedom is a responsibility we all share.

23 Sep 2023
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Mahakavi Subramania Bharati: Tamil poet, writer and freedom fighter.

Subramania Bharati fired the imagination of Tamil speaking people like never before with his poetry and writing.He was a man far ahead of his times with modern approach to social issues right from cast to feminism and was famous as "Mahakavi Bharati". His Early Years: He was born in  Ettayapuram of Tirunelveli district (present day Thoothukudi) on 11 December 1882 as Subbaiah to Chinnaswami Subramania Iyer and Lakhsmi Ammal. He was educated at Tirunelveli and Varanasi. He learnt music by the age of eleven, and also learnt poetry, as such he was conferred the title of "Bharati". He started his career as a journalist with newspapers, mainly Swadesamitran and India. Remarkably, Bharati learnt 32 languages, including 29 Indian languages and 3 foreign languages. Subramanya Bharathi was married to Chellamma. Freedom Struggle: Subramania Bharati was also a member of the Indian National Congress. In 1908, government of British India issued arrest warrant against him owing to his nationalist activities. Due to this, he moved to Puducherry, and lived there until 1918. He was sent to prison by the British Government on many occasions. Writings: Mahakavi Bharati  was a path breaker in modern Tamil poetry. He is regarded as one of the greatest Tamil literary luminary of all times.His various works included fiery songs which kindled patriotic fervor as well as nationalism in Indian Independence movement. Bharati's covered various themes including political, social and religious aspects. His songs are used in Tamil films and music concerts even to this day, such is his timeless popularity. His poetry depicted a progressive, and reformist ideal. He used powerful imagery  in his verse which was followed by modern Tamil poetry. He created thousands of verses on different topics including songs of nature, Indian Nationalism, glory of the Tamil language, tributes to prominent freedom fighters of India like Tilak, Lajpat Rai and Mahatma Gandhi, children's songs and even love songs.                      Last Days of Mahakavi Bharati: Bharati’s health was affected by the imprisonments at various times in the course of freedom struggle. Further, at Parthasarathy temple in Triplicane, Chennai, Bharati was struck by an elephant named Lavanya, which he fed as a routine.Even after surviving this incident, Bharati’s health worsened. He breathed his last on 12 September 1921. Mahakavi Bharati’s Legacy: To honour Mahakavi Bharati, his statue has been installed in Indian Parliament. In 1982, a state university named Bharathiar University, was established at Coimbatore.  In 1987, the Government of India instituted the highest National Subramanyam Bharti Award. It is annually conferred on outstanding writers in Hindi literature. Several roads have been named after him, including Subramania Bharti Marg in New Delhi and Bharathiar road in Coimbatore. In the year 2000, a Tamil Movie titled ‘Bharati’ was made on Mahakavi Bharati’s life by Gnana Rajasekeran. The film won National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Tamil. No words are enough to describe an icon like Mahakavi Bharati. This is but a small introduction to make the non-Tamil readers aware that such a mega personality existed which has left an indelible mark on not only Tamil, but also on Indian literature.

4 May 2017
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