A grand patriotic celebration in Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, on December 12 marked 116 years of the timeless ode “Sāgara Pran Talamalala…,” a composition that has resonated across generations since its creation by Swatantryaveer Vinayak Damodar Savarkar.
At the centre of the commemorative event was the unveiling of a majestic statue of Savarkar by RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah at Beodanabad, Sri Vijaya Puram. The ceremony, titled “Sāgara Pran Talamalala,” was organised by Ameya Hete, Founder of the Mumbai-based Valuable Group, bringing together key national figures in a rare joint appearance.
The occasion commemorated 116 years since Savarkar first penned the iconic lines “…Sāgara Pran Talamalala…” in the Andamans, where the sea waves stood witness to the freedom fighter’s enduring legacy. The event saw a large gathering and prominent attendance, reinforcing the cultural and historical significance of Savarkar’s time in the islands.
Alongside Amit Shah and Dr. Mohan Bhagwat, Admiral (Retd.) Devendra Kumar Joshi, Hon. Lt. Governor of Sri Vijaya Puram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, was present as a Guest of Honour. Maharashtra’s Cultural Affairs and IT Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar also attended, further underscoring the wide national representation at the commemoration.
The newly unveiled statue, designed and crafted by renowned sculptor Shri Ram Sutar, recently felicitated with the Maharashtra Bhushan, has been positioned as a tribute to Savarkar’s conviction, resilience, and contribution to India’s freedom struggle. Organisers described the monument as a symbol of nationalism and sacrifice, reflecting the ideals Savarkar embodied throughout his life.
Event organiser Ameya Hete emphasised the wider intent behind the ceremony, noting that the programme was meant to honour the history of India’s freedom movement and preserve its spirit for future generations. He highlighted that the commemoration served not only as a tribute but also as an expression of gratitude to Savarkar for his service and ideological influence.
The gathering of key national leaders, including the rare joint presence of Amit Shah and Mohan Bhagwat, drew attention across the islands, marking one of the significant cultural events held in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands in recent years. The ceremony placed renewed focus on the historical connection between Savarkar and the islands, particularly the period he spent imprisoned there during India’s struggle for independence.
The event added to a growing series of commemorations across the country recognising Savarkar’s contributions and reaffirming his legacy. Organisers stated that the statue and the annual remembrance would continue to serve as a reminder of the ideals that shaped India’s fight for freedom.
