Did PM Modi Honor Shyamji Krishna Varma by Bringing Back His Ashes from Geneva After 56 Years of Independence?
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorates Shyamji Krishna Varma's legacy on his birth anniversary, reflecting on the poignant moment when Varma's ashes were brought back from Geneva, fulfilling a wish that lingered for over five decades. This article explores the significance of Varma's contributions to India's freedom struggle and Modi's efforts to honor his memory.
Key Takeaways
- Shyamji Krishna Varma was a key figure in India's freedom movement.
- His ashes were returned from Geneva in 2003, fulfilling a long-held wish.
- The 'Viranjali Yatra' honored his legacy across 17 districts.
- 'Kranti Teerth' memorializes his contributions to India's independence.
- Varma was posthumously reinstated to the Bar in 2015.
New Delhi, Oct 4 (NationPress) On the occasion of the birth anniversary of the esteemed freedom fighter Shyamji Krishna Varma, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday reflected on how, 56 years post-India's Independence, Varma's ashes were returned from Geneva, fulfilling the freedom fighter's last wish.
Through social media, PM Modi shared a series of posts via the official 'Modi Archive' handle, celebrating Varma's remarkable life and enduring legacy.
"On the birth anniversary of the great freedom fighter Shyamji Krishna Varma, we commemorate Prime Minister @narendramodi’s tribute to this legendary revolutionary. Shyamji Krishna Varma passed away in 1930, clinging to the hope that his ashes would someday return to a liberated India. However, it took 56 years after India's Independence for this wish to be realized. In August 2003, Gujarat's then-Chief Minister, Narendra Modi, brought his ashes back from Geneva, honoring the freedom fighter's final request," the post elaborated.
On August 22, 2003, then-CM Modi visited St. George’s Cemetery in Geneva, Switzerland, where he officially received Varma’s ashes from the Ville de Genève and the Swiss authorities, the post further mentioned.
In another post, 'Modi Archive' highlighted how Narendra Modi orchestrated a grand 'Viranjali Yatra,' a ceremonial procession that saw the urn containing Varma's ashes traverse 17 districts of Gujarat, including South Gujarat, Central Gujarat, and Saurashtra.
The ashes were transported in a specially-designed vehicle named 'Viranjali-Vahika,' attracting thousands of young Gujaratis who came in droves to pay homage to the revered freedom fighter.
To further commemorate Varma’s contributions, he envisioned and initiated the establishment of 'Kranti Teerth,' a memorial dedicated to preserving the freedom fighter's legacy. The foundation stone was laid on October 4, 2009, and the memorial was inaugurated on December 13, 2010, as noted in the archive.
In a concluding post, it was mentioned that in 2015, Shyamji Krishna Varma was posthumously restored to the Bar by the Honourable Society of the Inner Temple, London. The certificate recognizing this honor was presented to Prime Minister Modi by the then-UK Prime Minister David Cameron.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the profound impact of Shyamji Krishna Varma on India's freedom struggle. The return of his ashes symbolizes a long-overdue acknowledgment of his contributions, and Prime Minister Modi's efforts to honor him reflect a commitment to remembering our nation's heroes. This act not only resonates with history but also inspires current and future generations to appreciate the sacrifices made for our freedom.
NationPress
04/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were Shyamji Krishna Varma's ashes brought back?
Shyamji Krishna Varma's ashes were brought back to honor his final wish, which was to have his remains returned to a free India, which was realized 56 years after India's Independence.
When was Shyamji Krishna Varma's ashes returned?
The ashes were returned on August 22, 2003, by then-Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi.
What was the 'Viranjali Yatra'?
The 'Viranjali Yatra' was a ceremonial procession organized to honor Varma's ashes, traveling through 17 districts of Gujarat.
What is 'Kranti Teerth'?
'Kranti Teerth' is a memorial dedicated to Shyamji Krishna Varma, initiated to preserve and celebrate his legacy.
What recognition did Varma receive posthumously?
In 2015, Shyamji Krishna Varma was posthumously reinstated to the Bar by the Honourable Society of the Inner Temple, London.
