Vinayak Damodar Savarkar: Philosopher, Politician, and Freedom Fighter Quiz

Vinayak Damodar Savarkar: Philosopher, Politician, and Freedom Fighter

Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, commonly known as Veer Savarkar, was a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement. Born on May 28, 1883, in Bhagur, Savarkar's life and contributions to Indian independence are significant and multifaceted, encompassing philosophical and political ideologies, social reform, and controversies.

Philosophical and Political Ideology

Savarkar was an Indian Independence activist and politician who formulated the Hindu nationalist philosophy of Hindutva. He argued for the "might is right" principle in international politics, emphasizing the protection of one's own country and its people. Savarkar also believed that physical force and modern egalitarian principles were necessary for societal reform. His work attempted to reconcile elements from classical Indian thought, Western social and political philosophy, and his personal experience and observations.

Contributions to Indian Independence Movement

A significant contributor to the Indian independence movement, Savarkar was the first political leader to set independence as India's goal in the early 1900s. He authored a book titled "The History of the War of Indian Independence," which referred to British rule as unjust and oppressive. The book was banned by the British but gained popularity among Indian revolutionaries. Savarkar also led an armed revolt against the Morley-Minto reforms in 1909.

Life and Background

Born in Bhagur, Maharashtra, Savarkar was a high school student when he began his political activities. He continued his activism at college and later became a forceful orator and writer, advocating for Hindu political and social unity. Savarkar was the president of the Hindu Mahasabha political party, endorsing the idea of India as a Hindu Rashtra (Hindu Nation).

Incarceration and Trials

In 1910, Savarkar was arrested and ordered to be extradited to India for his connections with the revolutionary group India House. Upon his return to India, he was sentenced to two life terms of imprisonment totalling 50 years and was moved to the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Savarkar filed multiple mercy petitions, and his release was demanded by national leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Tilak. He was transferred to a jail in Ratnagiri in 1921 and then to the Yerwada Jail in Pune. Savarkar was released in 1924 but could not move out of Ratnagiri or engage in political activities for five years.

Controversies and Legacy

Savarkar's contributions to the Indian independence movement are not without controversy. He is often criticized for his staunch support of British colonialism and for pushing his Hindutva ideology, which deepened the communal divide during a time when a united front was needed. Despite these criticisms, Savarkar's legacy in the Indian independence movement is significant. He was a self-proclaimed atheist but a staunch believer in Hindutva, believing that all religions are the same and can support the creation of Akhand Bharat (United India or Greater India). Savarkar was also a fierce critic of the Indian National Congress (INC) and Mahatma Gandhi, opposing the Quit India Movement and later objecting to the INC's acceptance of Indian partition.

In conclusion, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar was a multifaceted figure in the Indian independence movement, with significant contributions to philosophical and political ideologies, social reform, and the Indian independence struggle. Despite his controversies and criticisms, his influence on Indian politics and society remains significant.