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Calls for preservation of Savarkar Sadan, similar to Dr. Ambedkar’s London residence
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Demands made in letters to PM Narendra Modi and Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis
Mumbai – The Maharashtra government purchased and is currently preserving Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar’s house in London. In contrast, ‘Savarkar Sadan’ in Maharashtra, the place where Swatantrayaveer Savarkar lived for 38 years, remains neglected.
The Hindu Vidhidnya Parishad has demanded that, just like Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s London home, the Maharashtra government should purchase ‘Savarkar Sadan’, preserve it properly, and declare it a national monument. This demand was formally made by Advocate Virendra Ichalkaranjikar, National President of the Hindu Vidhidnya Parishad, through separate letters addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
While Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar led the Mahad Satyagraha and fought for Dalit rights, Swatantrayaveer Savarkar worked to eradicate casteism by establishing the Patit Pavan Mandir, organising inter-caste feasts there, and ensuring temple entry for Harijans.
The Maharashtra government spent more than 36 crore rupees to purchase Dr Ambedkar’s London house, along with 1.25 crore rupees to acquire various artefacts for it. The government has also spent 56 crore rupees on various other monuments, and 196 crore rupees for the International Centre in Delhi. Despite this, the government remains indifferent only when it comes to Savarkar Sadan.
Government intervention is essential
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning this building is currently pending in the Bombay High Court. A prominent developer has filed a registration petition in this matter, indicating a strong possibility of commercial development interest in this historic property. Therefore, immediate government intervention is necessary to protect this important heritage site.
The Savarkar family has made immense sacrifices for the nation. Forcing the financial burden of preserving the family home onto the family itself would be deeply unjust. The government should purchase ‘Savarkar Sadan’ from its current owners so that this historic residence can become a source of inspiration for future generations. Adequate funds must be allocated for its proper preservation and promotion.
Advocate Virendra Ichalkaranjikar has strongly urged the Central Government in his letter to take action to honour Swatantrayaveer Savarkar’s sacrifices for the nation and his contribution to nation-building.
