Vinayak Damodar Savarkar
Introduction: Who was Veer Savarkar?
Veer Savarkar, whose full name was Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, was a great revolutionary of India, freedom fighter, writer, and a strong spokesperson of Hindutva. He not only took an active part in India’s freedom struggle, but also wrote many literary works for India while in jail.
Early Life and Education
- Birth: 28 May 1883
- Place: Bhagur, Nashik (Maharashtra)
- Father: Damodar Pant Savarkar
- Mother: Radhabai Savarkar
Veer Savarkar had imbibed patriotism and revolutionary ideas since childhood. He received education from Ferguson College in Pune and later went to England to study law.
Revolutionary Activities and ‘Abhinav Bharat’
Veer Savarkar founded a revolutionary organization called “Abhinav Bharat” while living in England. He inspired the youth for the independence of India and propagated revolutionary ideas against the British government.
His book “The First War of Indian Independence” was banned by the British government because it described the 1857 revolution as the fight for the independence of Indians.
Arrest and Sentence of Kala Pani
In 1909, Veer Savarkar was arrested in the Nasik Conspiracy Case and was sentenced to 50 years. He was sent to the infamous Cellular Jail of Andaman Nicobar, which is called Kala Pani. There he suffered extremely inhuman torture, yet his dedication towards the nation remained unwavering.
Writings and Ideological Contribution
Veer Savarkar was also a brilliant writer and thinker. He presented the philosophy of ‘Hindutva’, in which he defined ‘Hindu’ as a cultural and national identity.
His Major Works:
- The War of Independence of 1857
- Hindutva: An Idea
- Mazzini Ka Jeevan Charitra
- Sapta Rishi
- Meri Jeevan Yatra (Autobiography)
Post Independence Role
Even after India’s independence in 1947, Savarkar played an active role in politics and society. He was accused of conspiring to assassinate Mahatma Gandhi, but the court acquitted him due to lack of evidence.
Death
On 26 February 1966, Veer Savarkar breathed his last in Mumbai. He took Prayopaveshan (voluntary renunciation of life) of his own free will and left the body.
Legacy of Veer Savarkar
- In India, he is seen as a controversial but influential thinker.
- Many political parties and ideologies revere him as ‘Veer’ Savarkar.
- His cell in the Cellular Jail in Andaman is still preserved as a national monument.
Conclusion
The biography of Veer Savarkar is a unique story of the Indian freedom struggle, nationalism, and Hindutva ideology. The sacrifice and struggle he made in his life is still a source of inspiration for the countrymen.
Introduction: Who was Veer Savarkar?
Veer Savarkar, whose full name was Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, is considered a fierce revolutionary, patriotic writer, and the ideological foundation stone of Hindutva in India’s freedom struggle. He was born on 28 May 1883 in Bhagur village of Nashik district of Maharashtra. He not only adopted the path of revolution against the British, but also gave ideological depth to India’s freedom movement.
Veer Savarkar’s life was a symbol of sacrifice, austerity, and thoughtful revolution. He wrote a revolutionary book like “1857 Ka Swatantrata Sangram”, in which he described the revolution of 1857 as India’s first freedom struggle. He believed that India cannot become a strong nation until it is united mentally, culturally, and religiously.
The British government gave him the harsh punishment of dungeon in Cellular Jail (Kala Pani) of Andaman for his revolutionary activities, where he suffered unbearable torture but never backed down from his resolve.
His life still inspires the youth with patriotism, fearlessness, and ideological commitment. He was a thinker who challenged the British not only with a gun but also with a pen.
Early Life and Education
Veer Savarkar was born on 28 May 1883 in Bhagur village of Nashik district of Maharashtra. His full name was Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. He belonged to a Chitpavan Brahmin family, which was famous for education, culture, and patriotism.
Family Background:
- Father: Damodar Pant Savarkar – was a person with religious and patriotic ideas.
- Mother: Radhabai – was a woman with simple nature and spiritual outlook.
- Veer Savarkar had three siblings, out of which Ganesh Savarkar (Babarao) was also a revolutionary.
He lost his mother at the age of just 9, and his father died at the age of 14. After this shock, Savarkar was raised by his elder brother Babarao.
Education and Childhood:
Since childhood, Vinayak showed sharp intelligence, powerful oratory, and leadership ability. While studying in the local school of Nashik, he used to write poems and speeches full of patriotism.
Ferguson College, Pune (1901)
In the year 1901, he joined Ferguson College in Pune. From there he received intensive education in English, history, Sanskrit, and politics. During this time, he along with his friends founded a student organization whose objective was:
“To spread revolutionary ideology and overthrow British rule.”
Education in England
In the year 1906, he started studying law at Gray’s Inn College in London through an academic scholarship. During this time, he founded a secret organization called “Abhinav Bharat”, which was in favor of armed revolution in India.
Main Points of this Phase:
- Feeling of patriotism since childhood
- Influence of revolutionary thoughts in the family
- Higher education in Pune and London
- Establishment of Abhinav Bharat
- First step towards the freedom struggle
Conclusion
Veer Savarkar’s early life was full of difficulties, but the seeds of leadership, patriotism, and revolutionary thinking had germinated in him since childhood. This is the reason why he became the leading leader of the Indian freedom struggle in the future.
Revolutionary Activities and ‘Innovative India’
Abhinav Bharat
Veer Savarkar was not only a thinker or writer, but also an active revolutionary. His aim was to free India from the slavery of the British, and for this he was in favor of armed revolution.
Establishment of ‘Abhinav Bharat’
In the year 1904, while studying in Pune, Veer Savarkar along with his friends laid the foundation of a secret revolutionary organization –
‘Abhinav Bharat Society’
The aim of this organization was:
- To organize young revolutionaries against the British Raj
- To inspire armed revolution to achieve independence
- To spread the spirit of nationalism on a wide scale
This organization was inspired by the Italian revolutionary leader Mazzini, whose biography Savarkar also later wrote in Marathi.
Strategy of Revolution in London
When Savarkar went to England in 1906, he expanded ‘Abhinav Bharat’ internationally.
- He started propagating revolutionary ideas through Indian students.
- Worked with the Indian Home Rule League
- Founded the ‘Free India Society’
- Gave training to his comrades in using weapons and making bombs
- Printed revolutionary literature and sent it to India
1857 War of Independence – Ideology of Revolution
Veer Savarkar wrote a book called “1857: India’s First War of Independence”, in which he described the incident of 1857 as “the first war of independence” and not “rebellion”.
This book was banned by the British, but was secretly spread in India. This book filled the youth of India with revolutionary energy.
Nasik Conspiracy and Arrest
Veer Savarkar’s follower Madanlal Dhingra killed a British officer in London in 1909. After this incident, Savarkar was also arrested in London.
In 1910 he was brought to India and was sentenced to life imprisonment (50 years) twice in the ‘Nashik Conspiracy Case’. He was sent to — Kala Pani (Cellular Jail, Andaman).
Main Points
- 1904: Establishment of Abhinav Bharat
- 1906–1909: Secret revolutionary activities in London
- Historical book on the revolution of 1857
- Arrest by the British government and sentence of Kala Pani
Conclusion
The revolutionary phase of Veer Savarkar is not only an example of patriotism and courage, but it shows that he challenged the British rule with both thought and weapon. His ‘Abhinav Bharat’ gave a new direction and energy to the freedom struggle.
Arrest and Sentence of Kala Pani
Veer Savarkar’s revolutionary ideas and activities had become a big challenge for the British government. His books, speeches and organizations had aggravated the anti-British movement in India. This was the reason why the British government arrested him on charges of treason and conspiracy.
Background of Arrest
In 1909, Savarkar’s follower Madanlal Dhingra assassinated British officer Curzon Wyllie in London. The British government was badly shaken by this incident.
Although Savarkar was not directly involved in this incident, he came under target due to his ideology and guidance role.
Savarkar was arrested in London on 13 March 1910.
Extradition to India and Daring Escape
When Savarkar was being brought to India, he made an unsuccessful attempt to escape from the ship at the port of Marseille (France).
This incident is known in history as the “Marse Escape”, which is a symbol of his indomitable courage and passion for freedom.
The British authorities captured him again and brought him to India and tried him in the ‘Nashik Conspiracy Case’.
Punishment: Two Life Imprisonments
In 1911, he was convicted on two counts:
- Waging war against British rule
- Being involved in a conspiracy to murder British officers
He was sentenced to double life imprisonment (50 years).
(25+25 years solitary confinement)
Kala Pani – Cellular Jail of Andaman
He was sent to the infamous Cellular Jail of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which was commonly known as Kala Pani.
Conditions there:
- Extremely hard labour (running an oil mill)
- Severe isolation and mental torture
- No clean water to drink, no paper to write on
- Torture and corporal punishment of revolutionaries
Still, Veer Savarkar never lost courage.
He continued writing even in prison. Later he wrote in his autobiography:
“These iron bars have never been able to imprison my thoughts.”
Mercy Petitions – Controversy or Strategy?
Savarkar also sent several mercy petitions to the British government while in prison.
The purpose of these petitions was, according to some historians:
- To strategically come out of prison and restart the movement.
While some critics consider it a surrender.
But the truth is that his morale never broke and his patriotism remained strong.
End of Sentence and Release
- Savarkar was imprisoned in Kala Pani from 1911 to 1924.
- In 1924, he got conditional release and was interned in Ratnagiri.
Main Points (Bullet Points Summary)
- Arrested in 1910, brought to India from London
- Guilty in “Nashik Conspiracy Case”
- Two times life imprisonment = 50 years sentence
- Kala Pani sentence – Cellular Jail of Andaman
- Patriotism intact despite physical, mental torture
- Conditional release in 1924
Conclusion
The arrest of Veer Savarkar and the sentence of Kala Pani is a harsh but inspiring chapter of the Indian freedom struggle. Where other revolutionaries were hanged, Savarkar became a warrior of ideas and continued to fight with the power of pen even in the dungeon.
Writings and Conceptual Contributions
Veer Savarkar was not only a revolutionary, but he was also a brilliant thinker, writer and philosopher. He strengthened India’s freedom struggle not only with weapons, but also with the power of ideas and writing.
His works are still considered important sources for in-depth analysis of Indian nationalism, history and Hindu society.
1. Veer Savarkar as a Writer
Savarkar’s writings were dedicated to political, historical, social and religious topics.
He wrote many books from memory even while in jail and worked to awaken the nation mentally.
Major Works
| 📘 Book | 🔍 Content |
|---|---|
| The 1857 War of Independence | Presented the Revolution of 1857 as “India’s first freedom struggle” |
| Hindutva: Who is a Hindu? | Cultural definition of Hindu identity and philosophy of national unity |
| Majhi Janmathep (My Life Journey) | Autobiography: Story of experiences and struggle of Kalapani |
| Chhatrapati Shivaji | Light on the life of Shivaji and his nation building |
| Sapt Rishi | Discussion of the basic principles and ideals of Indian culture |
| Gomantak | Atrocities of the Portuguese in Goa and the condition of Hindu society |
2. Ideological Contribution: The Principle of ‘Hindutva’
Veer Savarkar presented “Hindutva” not only as a religious sentiment, but as a cultural and national ideology.
Who is a ‘Hindu’? According to him:
“Whoever considers India as his fatherland and holy land, is a Hindu.”
His Hindutva theory:
- Views India as a cultural nation
- Tries to connect India culturally with Muslims and Christians
- Talks about cultural nationalism, not secularism
3. Explanation of Nationalism
Veer Savarkar’s nationalism:
- Was not based on any caste or religion
- It talked about a geographical, historical and cultural unity
- He believed that “to strengthen a nation, its history, religion and culture – all must be combined”
4. Importance of Writing in Prison
In Cellular Jail (Kala Pani), Savarkar:
- Was not given paper, pen or books
- He memorized poems by writing them on the walls with nails
- He made the prisoners memorize his compositions and then send them out – these compositions were later compiled
Main Features
- Brilliance in writing and clarity of reasoning
- Authentic description of Indian culture and freedom struggle
- Ideological foundation for uniting Hindu society
- Balanced view of nationalism and cultural identity
Conclusion
Veer Savarkar’s writings are still very important for understanding Indian nationalism, history and cultural consciousness.
His pen gave an ideological challenge to the power of the British and worked to organize and make Indian society aware.
He was not just a writer – he was a warrior of ideas, whose pen was sharper than a sword.
Major Works of Veer Savarkar
Veer Savarkar’s writings are based on Indian history, culture, nationalism and Hindutva. He conveyed his ideas to the masses through literature and history. His works not only awakened the consciousness of India’s independence, but also touched the cultural soul of India.
1. The Freedom Struggle of 1857
- Publication Year: 1909
- Language: Originally Marathi, later translated into Hindi and English
Main Topic:
The 1857 revolution was called a “revolt” by British historians, but Savarkar called it India’s “First War of Independence”.
This book was banned by the British because it legitimized rebellion against British rule.
2. Hindutva: Who is a Hindu?
- Publication Year: 1923
Main Topic:
This book explains Savarkar’s Hindutva philosophy.
He presented ‘Hindu’ as a cultural identity, not just religious.
According to him, a person who considers India as his fatherland and holy land is a Hindu.
3. Majhi Janmathep (My Life Journey)
- Language: Marathi
Main Theme:
This is Savarkar’s autobiography in which he has described in detail the experiences, tortures and struggle of Kala Pani (Cellular Jail).
This book is a unique example of the courage and self-confidence of patriots.
4. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Main Theme:
In this book, he presented Shivaji Maharaj not only as a warrior, but as a nation builder and strategic leader.
He described Shivaji as the inspiration of Hindu nationalism.
5. Gomantak
Main Theme:
A cultural document based on the social condition and religious persecution of Hindus in Goa under Portuguese rule.
He tried to awaken the cultural identity of Goa.
6. Sapta Rishi
Main Topic:
This book is based on the spiritual and cultural fundamentals of Indian culture.
It discusses the ideology and contribution of seven great sages.
7. Mazzinicha Charitra (Biography of Mazzini)
Main Topic:
Based on the life of the great Italian revolutionary Joseph Mazzini.
Savarkar himself was influenced by Mazzini’s nationalist ideology, and he wrote this biography to inspire the youth.
Quick Recap
| Order | Book Name | Topic |
|---|---|---|
| 1️⃣ | 1857 Independence Struggle | History, Nationalism |
| 2️⃣ | Hindutva: Who is a Hindu? | Cultural Philosophy |
| 3️⃣ | Majhi Janmthep | Autobiography |
| 4️⃣ | Chhatrapati Shivaji | Historical Biography |
| 5️⃣ | Gomantak | Cultural Study of Goa |
| 6️⃣ | Sapta Rishi | Analysis of Indian Values |
| 7️⃣ | Mazzinicha Charitra | International Revolutionary Inspiration |
Conclusion
Veer Savarkar’s works are not just a list of books — they are the flame of Indian freedom, culture and self-confidence. His writings even today inspire awareness, thoughtfulness and patriotism among the youth of India.
Post-Independence Role
After India’s independence, most freedom fighters distanced themselves from politics or joined the Congress. But Veer Savarkar’s role was completely different and ideologically clear. He firmly kept his ideology in favor of Hindu nationalism and cultural nationalism even after independence.
1. No Participation in Active Politics, but Ideological Leadership
After independence, Savarkar did not participate in any political post or election, but he gave ideological guidance to organizations like Jan Sangh and Hindu Mahasabha.
He believed that India should be independent and organized not only politically, but also culturally and socially.
2. Gandhi Murder and Trial Against Him
After the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi on 30 January 1948, Savarkar’s name also came up on charges of conspiracy.
- Nathuram Godse, who was Gandhi’s assassin, had earlier been a follower of Savarkar.
- The government accused Savarkar of conspiring to murder and he was arrested.
Court Decision:
In 1949, he was declared completely innocent due to lack of evidence.
The court said that “there is no concrete evidence to prove his role.” However, the case remains a subject of political and ideological debate even today.
3. Continued Social and Cultural Writing
After release, Savarkar continued his writing activities.
- He wrote on topics like unity of Hindu society in independent India
- Population control
- National language
- Uniform civil code
- Strengthening India as a powerful military nation
4. Ratnagiri to Mumbai – Last Journey
After release, he was transferred first to Ratnagiri and then to Mumbai. In old age, he gradually distanced himself from public life and started spending time in introspection and meditation.
5. Death – With Self-Sacrifice
Veer Savarkar declared in 1966 that:
“Now my work is over. To keep the body alive forcefully is a burden on the soul.”
He stopped taking food and medicines. This process is called “self-surrender” or prayopaveshan.
He breathed his last on 26 February 1966.
Main Points (Summary)
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| Gandhi Murder Case | Accused, but declared innocent due to lack of evidence |
| Political Role | No active politics, but ideological guidance |
| Writing | Articles on the future of independent India |
| Death | Died in 1966 by prayopaveshan |
Conclusion
After independence, Veer Savarkar’s life was full of struggle and ideological firmness. He did not seek political position, but dreamed of making India an ideologically strong nation. His role still holds a central place in discussions of nationalism, Hindutva and patriotism.
Death of Veer Savarkar
As much as Veer Savarkar’s life was full of struggle and inspiration, his demise was also as unique and ideologically clear. Even in his last days, he presented an example of living and dying according to Indian philosophy, especially the Sanatan tradition.
Decision Before Departure
In the 1960s, when Savarkar was more than 80 years old, he gradually distanced himself from public life. He was becoming physically weak, but mentally he was still as strong and clear.
He declared:
“My life’s work is complete. Now keeping this body alive is a burden on the soul.”
Prayopaveshan (Self-Surrender)
In early 1966, Veer Savarkar took the decision of “Prayopaveshan” (voluntary renunciation of life).
This is a tradition of Vedic times, in which a person with full determination gives up:
- Food
- Water
- Medicines
And practices the merging of the soul with the Supreme Soul. This is not suicide, but a spiritual penance described in Sanatan Dharma.
26 February 1966 – Final Farewell
After fasting for about 21 days, Veer Savarkar breathed his last in Mumbai on 26 February 1966.
There was a mixed feeling in the nation on his demise:
- Nationalists considered him a patriot and a source of inspiration
- Some political sections criticized him, especially regarding the Gandhi assassination case
- But history gave him a place as a thoughtful revolutionary, litterateur and patriot
Cremation and Tribute
- His last rites were performed in Mumbai
- Thousands of people reached to see him for the last time
- Prominent leaders of the nation paid tribute to him
Summary of Death
| Subject | Details |
|---|---|
| Cause of Death | Prayopaveshan (voluntary death) |
| Place | Mumbai |
| Date | 26 February 1966 |
| Last Rites | With full respect, according to Hindu tradition |
Conclusion
Veer Savarkar’s death was a determined and thoughtful act like his life. Even in his last moments, he taught that:
“Death can also be a sadhana, if it is purposeful and endowed with self-knowledge.”
His death was the end of an era, but his thoughts are still alive in the nationalist consciousness of India.
The Legacy of Veer Savarkar
Veer Savarkar (Vinayak Damodar Savarkar) was not just a revolutionary, but an ideologist, writer, historian and theorist of Hindu nationalism. His life and writings still deeply influence Indian society, politics and ideological discourse.
1. Ideological Foundation of Hindutva
Savarkar’s most famous ideological contribution is his book “Hindutva: Who is a Hindu?” He defined Hindu as a cultural and national identity, not just a religious one. This idea remains the foundation of the ideology of many nationalist organizations and political parties today.
2. Revolutionary Approach in History Writing
He wrote Indian history from an indigenous perspective, especially the “Revolution of 1857”. He described it as India’s first freedom struggle, not just a rebellion. His efforts inspire historians even today to free Indian history from colonial narratives.
3. Nationalist Writing and Linguistic Consciousness
He made Indian languages aware and advanced by writing in Hindi, Marathi and Sanskrit. His poems, autobiographies and essays still inspire patriotism.
4. Continuity of Political Influence and Ideology
Even though he distanced himself from active politics in independent India, his ideology is deeply embedded in organizations like:
- Hindu Mahasabha
- Jan Sangh
- Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
Today, the discussion of topics like nationalism, cultural pride and the uniform civil code in Indian politics reflects his influence.
5. At the Center of Controversies, Yet Influential
Veer Savarkar has been associated with many controversies ranging from Gandhi’s assassination to the idea of Hindutva. Yet, the demand for giving him Bharat Ratna has been raised many times — proving that his contribution goes beyond political boundaries.
6. Inspiration for the Young Generation
In today’s India, Savarkar’s life is seen as:
- Patriotism
- Courage
- Ideological clarity
- Inspiration for struggle
His autobiography, prison diary and poems inspire youth to become true patriots.
Legacy Summary Table
| Area | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Ideological | Hindutva, Nationalism, Uniform Civil Code |
| Literary | “Hindutva”, “1857 Revolution”, Jail Diary |
| Political Influence | Ideological foundation of organisations like Jan Sangh, BJP |
| Contemporary Influence | Centre point of nationalist discourse |
Conclusion: Veer Savarkar
Veer Savarkar’s life is a saga in which there is a wonderful confluence of sacrifice, penance, rebellion, thoughts and literature. He was not only a freedom fighter, but also a strong architect of the ideological reconstruction of India.
Many Dimensions of His Identity
- A revolutionary who paved the way for armed struggle against the British
- A philosopher who laid the ideological foundation of Hindutva and nationalism
- A writer and historian who presented India’s glorious past from a new perspective
- A political thinker whose ideas still shape India’s policies and debates
What Can We Learn from Savarkar?
- Patriotism: The feeling of sacrificing everything for the nation
- Clarity of thoughts: To stand firm in one’s beliefs
- Impact of writing: To spread revolution through the pen
- Courage and determination: To create history instead of surrendering
“The death of those whose life is dedicated to the nation is only a sacrifice of the body – the ideas remain immortal.”
References
- Savarkar, V. D. – “The First War of Indian Independence, 1857” (1909)
- Savarkar, V. D. – “Hindutva: Who is a Hindu?” (1923)
- Savarkar, V. D. – “Mazi Janmathep” (My Transportation for Life) – Autobiography
- M. S. Golwalkar – “Veer Savarkar and Hindutva”
- “Life of Barrister Savarkar” by Chitragupta (1920)
- National Portal of India – Biography of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar – india.gov.in
- Savarkar Memorial, Mumbai – savarkarsmarak.com
- Encyclopaedia Britannica – Biography of V. D. Savarkar
- Cellular Jail (Andaman) – National Memorial Official Website
- “Savarkar: Echoes from a Forgotten Past” by Vikram Sampath (2019)
- “Savarkar: A Contested Legacy” by Vikram Sampath (2021)