The Sengol as a symbol of virtue at the new indian parliament building.

Sengol is a golden scepter also called Raja-Danda is made of complete gold, symbolizing power, authority, and justice. It is presented to a newly crowned king whenever there is a transfer of power within the state. Sengol founds an important mention in the Tamil way of living and this scepter is given to the new king by the Rajarishi [Head Priest] during Rajaabhishek or the coronation of a king.

The Scepter has many intricate carvings on it, it's almost 5 feet in height and holds the Rishabha bull or Nandi on top which symbolizes power, rule, and dharma. 

The ruler who is handed the sengol is supposed to rule the state in a fair and just manner, just like a king. This tradition has been used in many kingdoms like the Chola, the Gupta Empire, and even the first king on earth, Satyavrata Manu. During many excavations, Coins were found with Samudra Gupta of the Gupta Empire holding sengol on one side and Maa Lakshmi on the other.

In many holy southern ancient kingdoms, the crown was placed on the head of the king who was given the sengol and this was continued by many empires which came after. It signifies the importance of leaders being transparent, impartial in their rule, and accountable for their decision for the benefit of the nation and its people. The sengol also displays inclusivity which expects leaders to listen to all perspectives in their kingdom, promote social equality, and ensure equal opportunities for all.

The symbol of holding a scepter is also found across many Vedic deities and Trimurtis. For instance, Lord Shiva holds a Trishula which is also a scepter in one hand which symbolizes his supreme power and his ability to transcend beyond the element of existence. Lord Brahma also holds a Scepter in one of his hands. Even Tridevis is shown holding a trishula or scepter in many epics. 

The origins of the Raja-danda are found in the Shanti Parva of Mahabharata where Yudhisthara asks Bhishma Pitamaha about it. Bhishma Pitaha narrates the story of how Lord Brahma asked Lord Shiva to appear in the form of Danda, Brahma Dev then gave the Danda to Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu, preserver of the cosmic creation is often seen holding a danda which is honored by the name "Kaumodaki". The Danda represesnts lord Vishnu's authority as the preserver of the universe. He later handed it to the first king, Satyavrata Manu who later passed it down to the kings of the Ikshvaku dynasty.

The sengol was first given to Pandit Nehru by Mountbatten in 1947 who kept the sengol with him for a few months and then send it to the archaeological museum with the label "Stick gifted to Pandit Nehru". This shows the complete ignorance and scarce intellectual capacities of the previous ruling government. But as dharma is always turning things around, the current government understands the significance of this symbol of power and does not disrespect it as a mere stick and keeps it standing strong near the seat of the speaker of parliament. 

May the current turn of events and the new parliament building stay running and be blessed with leaders who understand the deep cultural ethos of India and truly represent the symbol that this divine scepter hold.

 


 

 


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