Savarkar’s ‘The Indian War of Independence 1857’ and its National Character

Sub: History

Sec: Personality

Introduction

Savarkar’s The Indian War of Independence 1857 (1909) played a crucial role in shaping nationalist consciousness regarding the Revolt of 1857.
The book presented the rebellion as a pre-planned national uprising against British rule rather than a mere mutiny.
Although later criticized for historical inaccuracies, it remains influential in how the events of 1857 are perceived.

Purpose of the Book

The book aimed to instill national consciousness and inspire future resistance to British rule.
Savarkar believed that understanding and utilizing history was essential for nation-building:
- “A nation must develop its capacity not only of claiming a past but also of knowing how to use it for the furtherance of its future.”

Influences on Savarkar’s Narrative

Inspiration from V K Chiplunkar and the Bakhar Tradition

Savarkar was influenced by nationalist writer V K Chiplunkar, who emphasized using history for contemporary political struggles.
The book followed the bakhar style of historical narration in Marathi, which:
- Presented events sequentially, resembling Western positivist traditions.
- Portrayed historical events as part of recurring patterns, implying that past resistance could be repeated in the future.

Influence of Giuseppe Mazzini

Savarkar was inspired by Italian nationalist leader Mazzini and even wrote a Marathi biography of him.
Mazzini’s ideas influenced Savarkar in two ways:
- Nationalism as a stepping stone to broader human unity.
- The importance of reconstructing national identity by reaching back into history.

Savarkar’s Interpretation of the Revolt of 1857

A National Uprising, Not Just a Mutiny
- Savarkar argued that 1857 was not a mere sepoy mutiny but a well-planned war for independence.
- He noted that Indian soldiers, princes, and the public came together with a common goal to overthrow British rule.
Communal Unity in the Revolt
- Unlike later communal narratives, Savarkar emphasized Hindu-Muslim unity in the rebellion.
- He argued that:
  - Anti-Muslim sentiment was justified during Shivaji’s time but was unnecessary in the early 20th century.
  - National unity was crucial to resisting British imperialism.