Sengol: History and relevance – Explained, pointwise

Introduction

The Sengol, a sacred sceptre, traces its roots back to the ancient Chola dynasty in Tamil Nadu, where it served as a potent symbol of royal power transfer. However, its significance extends beyond mere political authority, representing the ethical-spiritual authority or ‘Dharma Danda’ in Indian civilisational tradition.

Today, its relevance is reignited as the Indian government plans to install the Sengol in the new Parliament building, leading to heated debates about its history, authenticity, and symbolism it carries in modern India.  

What is Sengol?

What is the significance of Sengol in Indian history?

Symbol of royal power transfer: In the history of the Chola dynasty the Sengol played a crucial role as a symbolic instrument for the transfer of power from one king to another. This practice was carried out by the Rajaguru, or the court priest, signifying divine approval for the new monarch.  

Spiritual authority: In Indian culture, kings and queens were not considered as the ultimate authority. The Sengol, symbolizing the Dharma Danda, was used to remind the monarchs that the highest authority was Dharma, the ethical and spiritual order. During coronation rituals, the priest would use the Sengol to assert that Dharma, not the king, held the ultimate power to punish.  

The historical symbol of independence: The Sengol held a special place in the history of India’s independence. In 1947, it was used in a ceremony to symbolize the transfer of power from the British to the first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru. The act signified the beginning of self-governance and the transfer of power to the people of India.  

Present-day significance: Today, the Sengol continues to hold relevance in the political symbolism of India. The recent decision of the Indian government to install the Sengol in the new Parliament building underlines its continued importance as a representation of India’s ethical and spiritual governance. This is seen as a reflection of the value India places on Dharma and the principles it stands for.  

What are the arguments supporting the installation of Sengol in Parliament?

Symbol of democratic power transfer: One of the arguments supporting the installation of the Sengol in Parliament is its historical symbolism of power transfer. The installation of this symbol in Parliament is seen as a continuation of this tradition, signifying the democratic power transition that happens in Parliament.  

Representation of Indian civilizational tradition: The Sengol is also representative of Indian civilizational tradition, wherein it signified the Dharma Danda, the ethical-spiritual authority. Installing it in Parliament could serve as a constant reminder to lawmakers of their duty to uphold Dharma, or ethical righteousness, in their service to the nation.  

Assertion of the prime minister’s authority: India’s decision to install the Sengol is seen as an assertion of the Prime Minister’s authority, who represents not just his political party but the entire nation. The Sengol, symbolizing power, reinforces the Prime Minister’s role as the country’s leader.  

Historical continuity and national pride: The installation of Sengol in Parliament can also be viewed as an act of historical continuity and a reaffirmation of national pride. The Sengol’s presence in the Parliament building would serve as a link to India’s past, reminding present and future generations of India’s rich cultural and historical heritage.  

What are the arguments of critics against the installation of Sengol in Parliament?

Questioning the prime minister’s authority: The opposition members have argued that the Prime Minister has no authority to inaugurate the new parliament and thereby question the decision to install the Sengol. They suggest that this act might be perceived as a unilateral decision rather than a democratic one.  

Disputes over the Sengol’s historicity: Some regional political party members have raised questions about the authenticity of the story surrounding the Sengol. They contend that before making such a significant decision, the historicity of the Sengol should be thoroughly vetted and agreed upon.  

Possible misinterpretation of symbolism: There’s a concern that the Sengol, which historically represents the transfer of power and Dharma, might be misinterpreted or exploited for political purposes. Critics argue that its sacred symbolism could be diminished or altered when installed in a political environment like Parliament.  

Disagreement over religious symbolism in secular spaces: Given the Sengol’s religious connotations and India’s status as a secular nation, some critics oppose its installation in Parliament. They suggest that it might blur the lines between religion and state, potentially conflicting with the principle of secularism.  

What are similar global and local examples like Sengol and their reasons behind it?

Royal sceptres in Western monarchies: In Western civilizations, especially in countries like Norway, Sweden, and the UK, the sceptre has been a part of royal regalia dating back to the times of the Greek and Mesopotamian civilizations. It represents the sovereignty and authority of the monarch. An example was seen as recently as in September 2022, when a sceptre was placed on the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, and again at the coronation of King Charles.  

Local Indian examples of similar symbols 

Dharma Danda: This is another example of a symbolic sceptre used in Indian tradition. During coronation rituals, the king, after formally ascending the throne, would proclaim his impunity, to which the priest would respond by patting the king’s crown with the Dharma Danda, signifying that Dharma, the ethical-spiritual order, has the power to punish the king. The Sengol represented this tradition of the Dharma Danda.  

Symbols of power in other Indian kingdoms: There are numerous examples of symbols of power and authority used in other Indian kingdoms. For instance, the Pallavas and Pandyas had their own unique symbols of power, though these might not have been identical to the Sengol. These symbols served a similar purpose, representing the transfer of power and the authority of the ruler.  

What should be done?

Understanding the symbolism: It is crucial to comprehend the Sengol’s significance as a symbol of the Dharma Danda or the ethical-spiritual authority, rather than viewing it merely as a relic or a symbol of political authority. The narrative should pivot around the Sengol’s rich heritage and its significance in the civilisational tradition.  

Respect for democratic processes: The objections raised by opposition parties should be addressed within the democratic framework, respecting all opinions. After all, the Parliament is a representative body, and any significant decision like this should ideally be taken in a democratic manner.  

Public awareness and engagement: Lastly, the public should be educated about the history and significance of the Sengol. This will ensure an informed discussion around its installation in the Parliament, leading to a decision that respects the sentiments of the majority while upholding the historical and cultural heritage of the country. 

Sources: Indian Express (Article 1, Article 2 and Article 3), The Times of India (Article 1 and Article 2), The Hindu (Article 1 and Article 2), News 18, Hindustan Times and The Wire

Syllabus: GS 1: Art & Culture: Salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.