Vinayak Damodar Savarkar

Early Life and Education
Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, popularly known as Veer Savarkar, was born on 28 May 1883 in the village of Bhagur, near Nashik, Maharashtra. He grew up in a patriotic Brahmin family, and his early years were influenced by the stories of India’s freedom fighters and ancient warriors. After losing his parents at a young age, Savarkar’s elder brother, Ganesh, took on the responsibility of raising him. As a student, Savarkar demonstrated a passion for literature, history, and politics. He founded a group called Mitra Mela, which later evolved into the revolutionary organization Abhinav Bharat, dedicated to Indian independence. In 1906, Savarkar earned a scholarship to study law in London, which became a turning point in his life.

Revolutionary Activities in London
In London, Savarkar immersed himself in the Indian independence movement. He became associated with revolutionary groups and began mobilizing Indian students. Savarkar’s fiery speeches and writings inspired many young nationalists. In 1909, he published The First War of Indian Independence, which portrayed the 1857 revolt as a national uprising rather than a mere mutiny. The book was banned by British authorities for its revolutionary content. Savarkar was also accused of inciting the assassination of British official Curzon Wyllie by fellow revolutionary Madan Lal Dhingra. These activities brought him under the scrutiny of British intelligence.

Arrest and Imprisonment in Andaman
In 1910, Savarkar was arrested in London and extradited to India on charges of sedition and conspiracy. During his transportation to India, he made a daring escape attempt by jumping out of the ship at the port of Marseilles, France, but he was recaptured. Sentenced to two life imprisonments (a total of 50 years), Savarkar was sent to the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where he endured inhumane conditions. Despite the hardships, he continued writing and composed poems, essays, and political manifestos. His work Hindutva: Who is a Hindu? written during his imprisonment, laid the ideological foundation for Hindu nationalism.

Release and Political Writings
In 1924, after 13 years in prison, Savarkar was released under stringent conditions, including a ban on participating in political activities. Settling in Ratnagiri, he focused on social reform, particularly the upliftment of the oppressed castes. He advocated for the abolition of untouchability and encouraged inter-caste dining and temple entry. However, his writings and speeches promoting the concept of Hindutva gained prominence. Savarkar envisioned a cultural and political unity of Hindus and became a key figure in the emerging Hindu nationalist movement.

Role in the Independence Movement and Controversi
Savarkar’s role in the Indian independence movement was both significant and controversial. Unlike leaders who advocated non-violence, Savarkar believed that armed struggle and militarization were essential to overthrow British rule. His views often clashed with those of Mahatma Gandhi and other leaders of the Congress. During World War II, he supported the British war effort, believing it was a strategic opportunity for India. Critics accused him of being indifferent to the Quit India Movement and accused him of not actively opposing British rule during the later years.

Post-Independence Years and Gandhi Assassination Allegations
After India’s independence in 1947, Savarkar continued to advocate for his vision of Hindu nationalism. However, his name became embroiled in controversy after the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi in 1948. He was accused of being part of the conspiracy but was acquitted due to a lack of evidence. Despite his acquittal, the association with Gandhi’s murder tarnished his legacy in the eyes of many. Savarkar retired from active politics and focused on writing, penning numerous books, poems, and essays on history, philosophy, and culture.

Death and Legacy
Veer Savarkar passed away on 26 February 1966 in Mumbai. He chose to embark on Atmarpan (self-willed death), by fasting until death, as a form of protest against his declining health and perceived neglect of his contributions to India’s freedom struggle. Savarkar remains a polarizing figure in Indian history—revered by many for his revolutionary zeal and contributions to Hindu nationalism, but also criticized for his political stances and controversial role in post-independence politics. Today, his legacy continues to shape debates on nationalism, religion, and identity in modern India.