HM Amit Shah Pays Tribute To Veer Savarkar On Birth Anniversary In Gujarat
Shah highlights Savarkar’s sacrifices, writings, and social reform efforts.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday paid tribute to freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar on his birth anniversary, praising his patriotism, sacrifices, and contributions to India’s independence movement and social reform. Addressing a public gathering in Sonipur village of Gujarat’s Gandhinagar district, Shah described Savarkar as a leader whose courage and dedication earned him the title “Veer” in the hearts of Indians. He said Savarkar’s life continues to inspire generations committed to nationalism and public service.
During his speech, Shah highlighted Savarkar’s role in the freedom struggle and his resistance against British colonial rule. He said Savarkar devoted his entire life to securing India’s independence and endured severe punishment for his activities against the British government. According to Shah, Savarkar was the only freedom fighter in India’s independence movement to receive two life imprisonment sentences in a single lifetime. He noted that the revolutionary leader faced unimaginable hardships but remained steadfast in his commitment to the nation.
The Home Minister also recalled Savarkar’s imprisonment at the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where many Indian freedom fighters were detained under harsh conditions. Referring to an incident from Savarkar’s imprisonment, Shah said a British jailer once mocked him by stating that his sentence would keep him imprisoned for 120 years. Savarkar reportedly replied that British rule itself would not survive that long and that India would achieve independence much earlier. Shah said the remark reflected Savarkar’s confidence, determination, and unwavering belief in India’s freedom.
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Speaking further, Shah highlighted Savarkar’s literary contributions, particularly his writings on the 1857 uprising against British rule. He said the British administration had attempted to describe the uprising merely as a rebellion, while Savarkar presented it as India’s first organised war of independence. Shah referred to Savarkar’s book, “The Indian War of Independence 1857,” claiming it was banned by the British authorities even before publication due to fears that it could fuel nationalist sentiment. He also stated that Savarkar wrote patriotic poems on the walls of the Cellular Jail using his own blood after being denied paper and pen.
Apart from his role in the independence movement, Shah emphasised Savarkar’s contribution to social reform and efforts to eradicate untouchability. He said Savarkar worked towards opening temples for Dalits and established the Patit Pavan temple to promote social equality during a period marked by caste discrimination. Shah also credited him with encouraging the use and development of Indian languages and contributing to broader cultural reform within society. According to the Home Minister, Savarkar’s work extended beyond politics and played an important role in shaping social consciousness in India.
Concluding his address, Shah paid his respects to Savarkar and said the nation continues to remember his sacrifices and contributions with deep reverence. He stated that Savarkar’s ideals of patriotism, courage, and social reform remain relevant in contemporary India. The tribute ceremony formed part of events marking Savarkar’s birth anniversary, observed by political leaders and supporters across the country. The occasion also renewed discussions around Savarkar’s legacy and his place in India’s freedom movement and social history.
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