Understanding the Sengol and its Historical Roots

The question asks about the historical empire associated with the 'Sengol', recently installed in the new Parliament building of India. The Sengol is described as a symbol representing service, duty, and the nation's path. We need to identify which ancient Indian empire used a similar tradition involving a sceptre like the Sengol during the transfer of power.

Analyzing the Significance of the Sengol

The 'Sengol' is a historical sceptre that has gained prominence due to its installation in the new Indian Parliament building. Its symbolism is linked to governance, righteousness, and the transfer of authority. Historical accounts connect this tradition to a specific ancient Indian dynasty.

Tracing the Sengol's Connection to Ancient Empires

Let's examine the historical context related to the Sengol and the provided options:

• Gupta Empire: The Gupta period (roughly 320 to 550 CE) was known for its advancements in arts, science, and literature, often referred to as the Golden Age of India. While they had elaborate coronation ceremonies and symbols of royalty, the specific tradition of a sceptre like the Sengol being passed down for the transfer of power, as described in the context of the recent installation, is not primarily associated with the Gupta Empire.
• Shunga Empire: The Shunga Empire (roughly 185 to 73 BCE) succeeded the Mauryan Empire. Historical records focus on their political and cultural aspects, but there is no prominent historical tradition linking a sceptre like the Sengol to the Shunga dynasty for the transfer of power in the manner described.
• Pandyan Empire: The Pandyas were one of the three major Tamil dynasties of South India, known for their long history and contributions to literature and trade. While southern dynasties, including the Pandyas, had royal symbols and traditions, the specific historical account cited in connection with the modern Sengol's significance points towards a different South Indian empire.
• Chola Empire: The Chola Empire (spanning several centuries, with major periods between 9th to 13th centuries CE) was another prominent South Indian dynasty known for its powerful naval force, elaborate temple architecture, and extensive administration. Historical narratives and traditions, particularly from South India, strongly associate the practice of a king handing over a sceptre (Sengol) to his successor as a symbol of transferring power and upholding dharma (righteousness and duty) with the Chola dynasty. This historical tradition is the basis for the modern significance attributed to the Sengol placed in the new Indian Parliament building, symbolizing the transfer of power from British rule to independent India and the nation's commitment to righteous governance.

Why Chola Empire is the Correct Answer

Based on historical accounts and the narrative surrounding the Sengol's installation in the new Parliament building, the tradition of using a sceptre (like the Sengol) as a symbol of the transfer of power and righteous governance is primarily associated with the Chola Empire. This historical link is the foundation for its modern revival and symbolism in India's democratic setup.

Conclusion

The 'Sengol', installed in the new Parliament building as a symbol of service, duty, and nation, is historically linked to the tradition of transferring power in the Chola Empire.

Revision Table: Sengol & Empire Link

Additional Information on the Sengol and Chola Tradition

The term 'Sengol' is derived from the Tamil word 'Semmai', meaning 'righteousness'. In the Chola tradition, the handing over of the Sengol from a Rajaguru (royal priest or guru) to the new king was not just a ritual but signified the king's vow to rule justly and uphold dharma. This tradition highlights the integration of spiritual and temporal authority, emphasizing the ethical responsibilities of a ruler. The modern Sengol presented to India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, in 1947, was crafted by jewellers from Madras (now Chennai) and was based on this historical Chola model. Its placement in the Parliament is intended to serve as a reminder of these ancient values of governance and the historical continuity of Indian civilization.