Since M.K. (Mahatma) Gandhi is called by many of his followers Rashtrapita (“Father of the Nation”), it is fitting that Vinayak Damodar (Veer) Savarkar be acknowledged as Hindu Rashtra Pita—the “Father of the Hindu Nation.” This title recognizes not only his seminal contribution to the Indian freedom struggle but also his immense personal sacrifices and…
The dramatic escape of Vinayak Damodar (Veer) Savarkar at the port of Marseilles in July 1910 remains one of the most notable episodes of India’s revolutionary struggle. Under strict British custody, Savarkar attempted a daring flight through the porthole of the docked S.S. Morea, swimming through the harbor waters to set foot on French soil.…
In the historiography of India’s struggle for independence, references typically focus on imprisonment, exile, or capital punishment as instruments of colonial repression. Less frequently noted, however, is the annulment of academic qualifications as a form of political sanction. The case of Vinayak Damodar (Veer) Savarkar (1883–1966) stands out in this regard: he became the first…
In July 1910, Vinayak Damodar (Veer) Savarkar attempted one of the most discussed escapes in the history of anti-colonial struggles. After leaping through a porthole of the British steamer S.S. Morea as it docked at Marseilles, he swam ashore and set foot on French soil – intending to claim political asylum. The Irregular Handover of…
On the morning of July 8, 1910, Vinayak Damodar (Veer) Savarkar managed to escape from his British guards aboard the steamer S.S. Morea, anchored in the French harbor of Marseille. After a brief swim from the docked ship to the quay, he set foot on French soil. Savarkar’s Plan Behind the Escape By reaching the…
Vinayak Damodar (Veer) Savarkar’s escape attempt at the French port of Marseilles on July 8, 1910, remains one of the most daring and dramatic episodes in the history of Indian freedom fighters in Europe. Years later, in his final press interview, Savarkar himself described it as the most memorable event of his life. What unfolded…
Economic Dimension of Hindutva, Part 10; Savarkar’s Economic Principles (6/13) Economic stability and national prosperity depend on a balanced relationship between industry, labor, and capital. In a thriving economy, workers should fairly partake in the profits of the industry. However, in times of economic downturn, just as capital suffers losses, workers too must be prepared…
Every year, 7 September is observed as Vande Mataram Day, commemorating the pivotal role of this iconic song in India’s struggle for independence. The date recalls the decision of the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1905 to adopt Vande Mataram at the height of the Swadeshi Movement against the Partition of Bengal. More than a…
Economic Dimension of Hindutva, Part 9; Savarkar’s Economic Principles (5/13) The balance between labor and capital has long been a subject of debate in economic and political thought. Vinayak Damodar (Veer) Savarkar, known for his nationalist and revolutionary ideas, also put forward an economic perspective that sought to harmonize the interests of labor and capital…