Video: The Story Behind Chola-Inspired 'Sengol' To Be Placed In New Parliament Building By PM Modi

Home Minister Amit Shah announced today that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be installing the historic 'Sengol' sceptre from Tamil Nadu in the newly constructed Parliament building.

The 'Sengol' sceptre holds immense historical importance as it was originally presented to Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister, by Lord Mountbatten during the time of independence. This ceremonial exchange represented the transfer of power from the British to the Indian government and was subsequently housed in a museum in Allahabad.

During the discussions surrounding the transfer of power, Lord Mountbatten posed a crucial question to Jawaharlal Nehru regarding the ceremonial proceedings that would best symbolize this significant transition.

Seeking advice, Nehru consulted C. Rajagopalachari, also known as Rajaji, who later served as the final Viceroy of India.

Rajaji drew inspiration from the Chola dynasty's traditions, where the transfer of power from one king to another was solemnized and blessed by the ruling elite. In this tradition, the symbol employed was the presentation of the 'senegol' or sceptre from the reigning king to his successor.