Why has the significance of Nehru's 'golden walking stick' known as 'sengol' been forgotten over time?

 Title: Rediscovery of Historic Sengol: Chennai Jewellers' Video Catches PM Modi's Attention

Introduction:

A one-minute video by Chennai-based Vummudi Bangaru Jewellers (VBJ) has drawn the attention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leading to the retrieval and rediscovery of a significant historical artifact. The video showcased the story of the 'sengol,' a five-foot-long gold sceptre that symbolized the transfer of power from the British to India in 1947. The sceptre had been lying mislabelled as Nehru's 'golden walking stick' at the Allahabad Museum for decades. This article delves into the journey of the sengol, its rediscovery, and the subsequent events that have unfolded.

The Forgotten 'Sengol':

VBJ Managing Director Amarendran Vummudi revealed that the family was unaware of the sengol's story until they read about it in a magazine in 2018. In 2019, they found the sceptre at the Allahabad Museum but were unable to hold a planned press conference due to the pandemic. To compensate, they created a video that caught the attention of PM Modi. The Vummudi family had forgotten about the sengol's existence, and the memories associated with it were hazy for Vummudi Ethiraj, the son of its creator, Bangaru Chetty.

Rediscovery and Documentary:

Arun Kumar, the jewellers' marketing head, stumbled upon the sengol while exploring the Allahabad Museum. It was erroneously displayed as the 'Golden walking stick gifted to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.' Recognizing the sceptre's true identity featuring Goddess Lakshmi and a sacred bull atop, Kumar brought it to the attention of the Vummudi group. The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) team, along with the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), historians, and Shaivite mutt heads from Tamil Nadu, collaborated to create a documentary. Renowned filmmakers Priyadarshan and Sabu Cyril were involved in its production, with a replica of the sengol crafted for reference.

The Commissioning of a Silver Replica:

Less than a month ago, officials from IGNCA requested a second booking for the sengol. Vummudi was tasked with designing a replica of the gold sceptre on a silver sheet, which was later gold-plated. The silver sceptre would be used for public display, while the original would be permanently housed in Parliament. With only eight days for completion, three teams of artists worked day and night to deliver the replica. The gold-plated sceptre was entrusted to officials at Chennai Airport, flown separately to Delhi, and will soon be installed in the new Parliament building.

Historical Significance and Research Efforts:

A letter from Padma Subrahmanyam, a noted danseuse, to the Prime Minister's Office set in motion meticulous research into the sengol. Quoting an article in the Tamil magazine Thuglak, Subrahmanyam emphasized the importance of making this information public on Independence Day. The Culture Ministry, with assistance from IGNCA and other experts, delved into various sources such as the National Archives of India, contemporary newspapers, books, and online information. They discovered that the sengol, worth ₹15,000 at the time, was commissioned by the Thiruvavaduthurai Adheenam in Tamil Nadu and crafted by Vummidi Bangaru Chetti and Sons, a renowned jeweller and diamond merchant.

Installation and Symbolism:

On May 28, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will install the historic sengol near the Lok Sabha Speaker's chair in the new Parliament building. The ceremony aims to honor the sceptre's historical significance and its role as a symbol of power transfer during India's independence. The Vummudi family has been invited to meet the Prime Minister and attend the inauguration ceremony.

Conclusion:

The rediscovery of the sengol, a forgotten historic gold sceptre, has garnered attention thanks to a video created by Vummudi Bangaru Jewellers. The sengol, which had been mislabelled at the Allahabad Museum, was brought to light through the efforts of VBJ, the PMO, historians, and filmmakers. With a replica created for public display, the original sengol will find its permanent place in the new Parliament building, symbolizing India's journey towards independence. The upcoming installation ceremony, to be attended by the Vummudi family and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marks a significant milestone in recognizing and celebrating the nation's rich history.

Sourav Ganguly

Sourav Ganguly, popularly known as "Dada," is a former cricketer and captain of the Indian national cricket team. He is considered one of the most influential and successful captains in Indian cricket history. Here is a detailed biography of Sourav Ganguly:

Early Life and Education:

Sourav Chandidas Ganguly was born on July 8, 1972, in Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), West Bengal, India. He hails from a middle-class family with a rich cricketing background. His father, Chandidas Ganguly, was a former Ranji Trophy player, and his elder brother, Snehasish Ganguly, also played first-class cricket.

Ganguly developed a passion for cricket from an early age and honed his skills playing street cricket in Kolkata. He attended St. Xavier's Collegiate School and later pursued his higher education at the prestigious St. Xavier's College, Kolkata. Ganguly excelled both academically and in cricket during his school and college days.

Domestic Career:

Sourav Ganguly made his debut in first-class cricket for Bengal in 1989. He quickly made an impact with his elegant stroke play and solid technique. Ganguly's prolific run-scoring earned him a place in the Indian national team in 1992. He continued to perform consistently in domestic cricket and represented Bengal in the Ranji Trophy tournament.

International Career:

Sourav Ganguly made his international debut for India in Test cricket against England at Lord's in 1996. He scored a century in his debut match, making an immediate impression on the cricketing world. Ganguly's elegant batting style, particularly his off-side play, gained him recognition as a technically sound batsman.

As his career progressed, Ganguly became one of the key batsmen in the Indian cricket team, known for his aggressive approach and strong leadership skills. He formed a formidable opening partnership with Sachin Tendulkar and played a pivotal role in several memorable victories for India.

Captaincy:

In 2000, Sourav Ganguly was appointed as the captain of the Indian cricket team, succeeding Sachin Tendulkar. Under Ganguly's leadership, the team underwent a transformation and attained success on both domestic and international fronts. Ganguly instilled a sense of self-belief and aggression in the team, leading them to numerous victories.

Ganguly's captaincy saw India reach the final of the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup, where they were defeated by Australia. He also led India to historic Test series wins against England and Australia, both at home and away. Ganguly's aggressive captaincy style and astute decision-making earned him admiration and respect from teammates and opponents alike.

Off-Field Controversies:

During his captaincy tenure, Ganguly faced some off-field controversies. He was involved in a public spat with former coach Greg Chappell, which led to Ganguly being dropped from the team for a brief period. However, he made a strong comeback and continued to contribute to Indian cricket.

Retirement and Post-Cricket Career:

Sourav Ganguly retired from international cricket in 2008 after playing 113 Tests and 311 One-Day Internationals (ODIs). He amassed over 18,000 international runs, including 38 centuries, and achieved numerous milestones throughout his career.

After retiring from cricket, Ganguly remained associated with the sport in various capacities. He served as the President of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) from 2015 to 2019. In 2019, he was elected as the President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), becoming one of the most prominent figures in Indian cricket administration.

Personal Life:

Sourav Ganguly is married to Dona Ganguly, a trained Odissi dancer and a renowned personality in her own right. The couple has a daughter named Sana Ganguly.

Legacy:

Sourav Ganguly's impact on Indian cricket is immense. He is credited with instilling a fighting spirit and a sense of self-belief in the team. Ganguly's leadership and contribution as a batsman laid the foundation for the success that Indian cricket achieved in subsequent years.

Nicknamed "The Prince of Kolkata" and "Dada," Sourav Ganguly is not only remembered for his cricketing achievements but also for his charismatic personality and his role in shaping Indian cricket's modern era.

Jamal Murray

 

Jamal Murray is a professional basketball player from Canada who currently plays for the Denver Nuggets in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Here is a detailed biography of Jamal Murray:

Early Life and Education:

Jamal Murray was born on February 23, 1997, in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada. He grew up in a basketball family, with both his parents having played the sport at a high level. Murray's father, Roger, played college basketball in the United States, and his mother, Sylvia, competed internationally for the British Virgin Islands.

Murray attended Grand River Collegiate Institute in Kitchener, where he began making a name for himself as a standout basketball player. He played for the school's team and quickly gained attention for his exceptional skills and scoring ability.

College Career:

After completing high school, Murray decided to pursue his college career at the University of Kentucky. He played for the Kentucky Wildcats under coach John Calipari during the 2015-2016 season. Murray made an immediate impact, averaging 20 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. He displayed a remarkable shooting ability, particularly from beyond the arc, and became known for his clutch performances.

Murray was named to the All-SEC First Team and SEC All-Freshman Team. Following his freshman season, he declared for the 2016 NBA Draft, forgoing his remaining college eligibility.

NBA Career:

Denver Nuggets (2016-present):

Jamal Murray was selected by the Denver Nuggets with the seventh overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft. He quickly became a key contributor for the Nuggets and developed into one of the team's primary scoring options. In his rookie season, Murray averaged 9.9 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game.

Murray's game continued to evolve in subsequent seasons, as he showcased his scoring prowess and playmaking abilities. He formed a strong backcourt duo with fellow Nuggets guard Nikola Jokić. Murray's breakout season came in 2019-2020 when he averaged a career-high 18.5 points, 4.8 assists, and 4.0 rebounds per game.

Playoff Performances:

Murray's most memorable moments came during the 2020 NBA Playoffs. In the first round against the Utah Jazz, he had several standout performances, including a 50-point game in Game 4, helping the Nuggets overcome a 3-1 series deficit to advance. Murray's scoring outbursts and clutch playmaking propelled the Nuggets to the Western Conference Finals, where they eventually lost to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Injury and Recent Years:

During the 2020-2021 season, Murray sustained a torn ACL in his left knee, sidelining him for the remainder of the season. The injury was a setback for both Murray and the Nuggets, as he was a crucial component of the team's success. Despite his absence, Murray remained an influential figure for the Nuggets and provided support from the sidelines.

Off-Court Impact:

Off the court, Jamal Murray has been actively involved in various charitable endeavors. He has donated to numerous causes, including initiatives focused on supporting underprivileged children and promoting education. Murray has also been vocal about social issues and has used his platform to advocate for racial justice and equality.

Personal Life:

Jamal Murray is of Jamaican and Canadian descent. He has expressed pride in his heritage and frequently represents Canada in international competitions. Murray's love for basketball extends beyond the court, as he has a passion for photography and frequently shares his work on social media.

In summary, Jamal Murray is a talented Canadian basketball player known for his scoring ability and clutch performances. He has established himself as a key player for the Denver Nuggets and continues to be an influential figure in the NBA.

Ron DeSantis

 

Ron DeSantis is an American politician serving as the 46th Governor of Florida. Here is a detailed biography of Ron DeSantis:

Early Life and Education:

Ronald Dion DeSantis was born on September 14, 1978, in Jacksonville, Florida. He grew up in Dunedin, a suburb of Tampa Bay. DeSantis attended Dunedin High School, where he excelled academically and athletically. He played baseball and was named a McDonald's All-American nominee.

DeSantis earned a scholarship to play college baseball at Yale University, where he graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history in 2001. While at Yale, he was also a member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity.

Legal and Military Career:

After graduating from Yale, DeSantis attended Harvard Law School, where he earned his Juris Doctor degree in 2005. Following law school, he entered active duty in the United States Navy and was designated a Judge Advocate General (JAG) officer.

DeSantis served as a JAG officer from 2005 to 2010. He was deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he worked as a legal advisor for the Navy SEALs. DeSantis received multiple military awards for his service, including the Bronze Star Medal.

Political Career:

Upon leaving active duty in 2010, DeSantis entered the world of politics. He ran as a Republican candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives in Florida's 6th congressional district in 2012. DeSantis campaigned as a conservative and gained the endorsement of several prominent Republican figures, including Senator Marco Rubio and Congressman Paul Ryan. He won the election and took office in January 2013.

During his time in Congress, DeSantis aligned himself with conservative principles and became known for his strong support of limited government, fiscal responsibility, and a robust national defense. He served on various committees, including the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform and the House Judiciary Committee.

In 2018, DeSantis ran for the office of Governor of Florida. He secured the Republican nomination and faced off against Democrat Andrew Gillum in the general election. DeSantis ran a campaign emphasizing his conservative policies and close alignment with former President Donald Trump. He won a narrow victory and was inaugurated as Governor on January 8, 2019.

As Governor of Florida:

Since taking office, Governor DeSantis has focused on several key policy areas. He has prioritized education reform, pushing for increased funding for school choice programs and advocating for measures to improve school safety. DeSantis has also taken steps to address environmental issues, including efforts to combat red tide and restore the Everglades.

Governor DeSantis gained national attention for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. He took a proactive approach, implementing measures to protect vulnerable populations, support vaccine distribution, and reopen the state's economy. His policies drew both praise and criticism, with supporters applauding his efforts to balance public health and economic considerations, while opponents questioned his decisions.

DeSantis has remained a prominent figure in national politics, frequently making appearances on conservative media outlets and being mentioned as a potential presidential candidate in the future.

Personal Life:

Ron DeSantis is married to Casey Black DeSantis, and they have three children together. His wife is a former television host and the founder of the educational program "Hope for Healing Florida." The family resides in Tallahassee, the capital of Florida.

In summary, Ron DeSantis is a Republican politician and the current Governor of Florida. He has a background in law and military service and has advocated for conservative principles throughout his political career.

LeBron James

LeBron James is a professional basketball player widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of his generation. Here is a detailed biography of LeBron James:

Early Life and Childhood:

LeBron Raymone James was born on December 30, 1984, in Akron, Ohio, United States. His mother, Gloria Marie James, raised him as a single parent. Growing up in a challenging environment, LeBron turned to sports as an outlet. He displayed exceptional basketball skills from a young age and gained attention for his prodigious talent.

High School Career:

LeBron attended St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Akron, where he became a local sensation. He was already considered a basketball prodigy, and his high school games attracted national attention. LeBron led his team to three Ohio state championships and was named "Mr. Basketball" in Ohio three times. He was widely regarded as the best high school basketball player in the country.

NBA Career:

LeBron James entered the NBA directly from high school, forgoing college. He was selected as the first overall pick by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2003 NBA Draft. Instantly, he became one of the most highly anticipated and scrutinized rookies in league history.

Cleveland Cavaliers (2003-2010):

LeBron quickly lived up to the hype, earning the NBA Rookie of the Year award in his first season. He continued to excel and led the Cavaliers to their first-ever NBA Finals appearance in 2007. However, they were defeated by the San Antonio Spurs. During his time with the Cavaliers, LeBron was a multiple-time All-Star and won two NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards (2009, 2010).

Miami Heat (2010-2014):

In 2010, LeBron made a highly publicized move to the Miami Heat, joining fellow All-Stars Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. The trio formed a dominant team that became known as the "Big Three." During his four seasons with the Heat, LeBron led the team to four consecutive NBA Finals appearances, winning back-to-back championships in 2012 and 2013. His decision to leave Cleveland and form the super team in Miami sparked widespread controversy.

Return to Cleveland Cavaliers (2014-2018):

In 2014, LeBron decided to return to the Cleveland Cavaliers, aiming to bring a championship to his hometown. He immediately made an impact, leading the Cavaliers to four consecutive NBA Finals appearances from 2015 to 2018. In 2016, LeBron fulfilled his promise by leading the Cavaliers to their first-ever NBA championship, making a historic comeback against the Golden State Warriors. He was named NBA Finals MVP for his efforts.

Los Angeles Lakers (2018-Present):

In July 2018, LeBron James signed a four-year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. Since joining the Lakers, he has continued to showcase his skills and leadership on the court. However, injuries have limited his playing time in some seasons.

International Career:

LeBron James has also represented the United States in international basketball. He has won two Olympic gold medals, in 2008 in Beijing and 2012 in London, and a bronze medal in 2004 in Athens.

Off-Court Impact:

Beyond basketball, LeBron James has made a significant impact off the court. He has been involved in various philanthropic endeavors, including establishing the LeBron James Family Foundation, which focuses on education and community development. LeBron has also been vocal on social and political issues and has used his platform to advocate for positive change.

Legacy:

LeBron James' impact on the game of basketball is undeniable. With his combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ, he has redefined the role of a forward in the modern era. His numerous accolades, including four NBA championships,

Ray Stevenson

Ray Stevenson is a British actor known for his versatile performances in film, television, and theater. Here are some details about his career:

1. Early Life and Education: Ray Stevenson was born on May 25, 1964, in Lisburn, Northern Ireland. He grew up in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. He studied at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, where he trained as an actor.

2. Film Career: Stevenson has appeared in a wide range of films, showcasing his talent across various genres. Some of his notable film roles include:

   - "King Arthur" (2004): He played the role of Dagonet, one of the Knights of the Round Table.

   - "Punisher: War Zone" (2008): Stevenson portrayed the Marvel Comics character Frank Castle/The Punisher.

   - "Thor" (2011) and "Thor: The Dark World" (2013): He portrayed the character of Volstagg, one of Thor's loyal allies in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

   - "The Three Musketeers" (2011): Stevenson played the role of Porthos, one of the Musketeers.

   - "Kill the Irishman" (2011): He portrayed the real-life Irish-American mobster Danny Greene.

   - "The Book of Eli" (2010): Stevenson appeared as a character called Redridge in this post-apocalyptic action film.

3. Television Career: Stevenson has also appeared in various television shows throughout his career. Notably, he played the character of Titus Pullo in the critically acclaimed HBO series "Rome" (2005-2007). His portrayal of the rough and loyal Roman soldier gained him significant recognition.

4. Theater and Stage Work: Prior to his on-screen success, Stevenson had an extensive career in theater. He performed with renowned theater companies such as the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Royal National Theatre.

Ray Stevenson's talent and versatility have made him a respected actor in the industry. He continues to take on diverse roles and deliver compelling performances across different mediums.

Nitesh Pandey

 

Nitesh Pandey is an Indian actor who primarily works in the Hindi television and film industry. He has appeared in numerous TV shows, movies, and theater productions.

Nitesh Pandey has acted in popular television serials such as "Hasratein," "Kasautii Zindagii Kay," "Kesar," and "Balika Vadhu," among others. He has portrayed diverse characters and has been recognized for his performances in the industry.

In addition to television, Nitesh Pandey has also worked in Bollywood films, including "Dil Ne Jise Apna Kaha" and "Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi," where he played supporting roles.

Nitesh Pandey's career spans several years, and he has established himself as a talented actor in the Indian entertainment industry.

Nitesh Pandey was born on August 17, 1973, in Dhanbad, Jharkhand, India. He completed his schooling and college education in Dhanbad before moving to Mumbai to pursue a career in acting.

He made his acting debut in the television industry with the show "Hasratein" in the late 1990s. Since then, Nitesh Pandey has appeared in numerous TV serials, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Some of his notable television shows include "Kasautii Zindagii Kay," where he played the character of Prerna's brother-in-law, and "Kesar," where he portrayed the role of Anupam.

Apart from television, Nitesh Pandey has also been involved in theater and has performed in various stage productions. He has been associated with prominent theater groups in Mumbai and has received acclaim for his stage performances.

In terms of films, Nitesh Pandey has worked in Bollywood movies in supporting roles. He appeared in films like "Dil Ne Jise Apna Kaha" (2004), "Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi" (2008), and "Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania" (2014), among others.

Nitesh Pandey continues to be an active part of the entertainment industry and is well-regarded for his acting skills and contributions to Indian television and film.

Nitesh Pandey has had a prolific career in the Indian entertainment industry and has appeared in numerous television shows, films, and theater productions. Here are some additional details about his work:

1. Television Serials: Nitesh Pandey has been a part of several popular television serials. Some of his notable shows include "Dekh Bhai Dekh," "Dil Vil Pyar Vyar," "Gharwali Uparwali," "Bhaskar Bharti," "Badi Door Se Aaye Hai," and "Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai," among many others. He has portrayed a variety of characters, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

2. Theatre: Nitesh Pandey has a strong background in theater and has worked in numerous stage productions. He has collaborated with prominent theater groups in Mumbai and has performed in plays like "Atmakatha," "Saiyan Bhaye Kotwal," and "Safar," receiving critical acclaim for his stage performances.

3. Bollywood Films: In addition to his television work, Nitesh Pandey has acted in several Bollywood films. Apart from the movies mentioned earlier, he has appeared in films like "Chandni Bar" (2001), "Mere Yaar Ki Shaadi Hai" (2002), "The Train" (2007), "Super Nani" (2014), and "Badrinath Ki Dulhania" (2017), among others. He has often portrayed supporting roles and has worked with renowned filmmakers in the industry.

4. Reality Shows: Nitesh Pandey has also participated in reality TV shows. He appeared as a contestant on the dance reality show "Nach Baliye 2" with his wife, Arpita Pandey.

Nitesh Pandey's dedication and versatility as an actor have garnered him a considerable fan following. He continues to contribute to the entertainment industry with his talent and performances.