Prime Minister Modi Pays Homage to Savarkar in Marseille, Reflects on the City’s Link to India's Independence Struggle

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During his visit to Marseille, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a heartfelt tribute to the iconic Indian freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, marking an important moment in honoring his contributions to India’s independence struggle. Modi’s visit highlighted the historical connection between Savarkar and the French city, which played a significant role in shaping his revolutionary ideas and actions against British colonial rule.

Savarkar, known for his relentless fight for India’s freedom, was a visionary and an intellectual. His life is synonymous with resistance against British oppression, and his writings and activism continue to inspire generations. During his speech in Marseille, Modi acknowledged Savarkar’s enduring legacy and stressed the importance of recognizing his contributions, particularly his role in framing the discourse around Indian nationalism and unity. Modi pointed out that Savarkar’s vision extended beyond just political freedom; he also sought to unify India on the basis of its cultural, social, and religious diversity.

In his address, Modi recounted the pivotal chapters of Savarkar’s life, including his early involvement in the Indian independence movement. He noted that Savarkar’s revolutionary activities led to his arrest by the British authorities in 1909, followed by his imprisonment in the Andaman Islands. Despite facing immense hardships in captivity, Savarkar remained committed to his cause, using his time in prison to write extensively on the history of India’s freedom struggle and its culture. Modi emphasized that Savarkar’s intellectual contributions were equally significant as his direct actions in the fight against colonial rule.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the strong link between Savarkar and Marseille, where the freedom fighter spent time during his travels to Europe. In the early 1900s, Marseille served as a key port for Indian nationalists and revolutionaries seeking international support for India’s independence. Savarkar, who was based in Europe during this period, was in contact with various freedom fighters, including those based in Marseille. The city became a strategic location for Savarkar’s efforts to forge alliances and spread his message of resistance against British rule.

Modi noted that this connection between Savarkar and Marseille underscores the global dimension of the Indian independence movement. While many might associate the struggle for freedom with the subcontinent, leaders like Savarkar took their message beyond India’s borders, seeking support and solidarity from international communities. Marseille, with its multicultural influence, served as a crucial meeting point for activists who were dedicated to dismantling imperialist powers worldwide.

Additionally, Prime Minister Modi reflected on how the Indian diaspora in Europe, including in cities like Marseille, played a vital role in raising awareness about India’s fight for independence. The city not only provided a platform for political discourse but also became a space for the Indian community to unite and challenge colonial forces.

As Modi concluded his address, he urged the younger generation to learn from Savarkar’s determination and courage. He called upon them to draw inspiration from the sacrifices made by freedom fighters like Savarkar, who fought tirelessly for India’s sovereignty. In doing so, Modi emphasized the relevance of understanding the shared history between India and countries like France, which continue to support India’s democratic ideals and global standing.

In paying tribute to Savarkar in Marseille, Modi not only honored a key figure of India’s independence struggle but also reinforced the idea that the battle for freedom was a global effort that spanned borders and cultures, with individuals like Savarkar leading the way.

Journalist Details

Jitendra Kumar

Jitendra Kumar is an Indian journalist and social activist from Hathras in Uttar Pradesh is known as the senior journalist and founder of Xpert Times Network Private Limited.