Veer Savarkar's Death Anniversary 2025, Dates, Biography

Veer Savarkar’s Death Anniversary 2025 will be observed on February 26, 2025 to honor the legacy of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, a prominent freedom fighter, writer, poet, and social reformer. He was known for his nationalist ideology and revolutionary spirit, who also played an important role in India’s independence movement, inspiring countless young patriots. His contributions to the freedom struggle and his advocacy of Hindutva are still discussed and hold historical significance.

Veer Savarkar's Death Anniversary 2025

Veer Savarkar passed away on February 26, 1966, at the age of 82, at his residence, Savarkar Sadan, in Bombay (now Mumbai). His death was due to natural causes, but he was fasting till his death from February 1, 1966. Before his passing, he wrote an article titled Atmahatya Nahi Atmaarpan (Not Suicide, but Self-Surrender), where he discussed that once a person’s life mission is fulfilled and they can no longer contribute to society, they should leave life on their own terms. He requested a simple funeral with no elaborate rituals, and his last rites were performed by his son.

Veer Savarkar’s Biography

Veer Savarkar was born on May 28, 1883, in Bhagur, Maharashtra, and while growing he displayed a strong passion for India's freedom from an early age. He completed his education from Fergusson College, Pune. Later, he moved to London to study law, where he became an active member of India House.

In 1909, Savarkar was arrested for his involvement in revolutionary activities against British rule. He was sentenced to two life terms of imprisonment and sent to the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Despite his imprisonment, he continued to write extensively on history, politics, and culture, leaving behind a significant intellectual legacy.

Vinayak Damodar Savarkar Key Life Events

Below in the table is shared are the Vinayak Damodar Savarkar Key Life Events to know more about him and his contribution towards the nation:

Veer Savarkar’s Contributions

Veer Savarkar was not just a freedom fighter but also a writer, thinker, and social reformer, whose contributed in various domains:

Freedom Struggle

He played an important role in inspiring revolutionary movements against British rule. He founded organizations like Mitra Mela, Abhinav Bharat Society (Young India Society), and the Free India Society, which aimed to promote nationalist ideologies and provide training to young Indians for resistance.

Abolition of Caste System

Veer Savarkar believed the caste system "deserves to be thrown into the dustbins of history." He actively promoted social reforms such as inter-caste dining and temple entry for all Hindus.

Literary Contributions

His works include "The Indian War of Independence," which redefined the 1857 Revolt as India's first organized fight for independence, challenging British narratives. His book "Hindutva: Who is a Hindu?" laid the foundation for Hindutva ideology.

Promotion of Vedic Literature

Veer Savarkar saw Vedic texts as India’s unique contribution to civilization and worked to make them accessible to all, breaking away from the Brahmanical monopoly.

Scientific Temper & Industrialization

Veer Savarkar emphasized science and modern industrial development, believing India was "200 years behind Europe." He promoted scientific progress as a key driver of national growth.

Hindutva Philosophy

Veer Savarkar is best known for Hindutva, which he defined as India's cultural and national identity, shaping modern political thought.

Veer Savarkar’s Legacy

Veer Savarkar's legacy continued to shape modern India as his contributions to Hindutva ideology and nationalism remain subjects of discussion and debate. Many political parties and organizations get their inspiration from his vision of a self-reliant and united India.

His influence is reflected in multiple institutions and landmarks named in his honor, such as Savarkar Sadan in Mumbai and Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair. His books and speeches continue to be studied by scholars and historians, offering insights into his thoughts on nationalism, social reform, and self-governance.

Veer Savarkar’s Role in the Narmada Bachao Andolan

While Veer Savarkar was not directly associated with the Narmada Bachao Andolan, his ideology of self-reliance and development resonated with various post-independence movements.

The Narmada Bachao Andolan, which began in the 1980s, aimed at environmental conservation and protecting the rights of displaced communities due to large dam projects. Although Savarkar majorly focused on technological advancement and national progress, his ideas find relevance in modern movements advocating for sustainable development, balancing growth with environmental and social concerns.

Veer Savarkar’s Interesting Facts

Veer Savarkar’s role in India’s history remains a subject of debate, but his contributions to the freedom struggle are undeniable. Below mentioned are the lesser known facts about Veer Savarkar:

1. He was among the first revolutionaries to redefine the 1857 uprising as the First War of Independence, challenging the British narrative. 
2. A writer and poet, he wrote books on nationalism and Hindu philosophy, even while imprisoned.
3. Savarkar was the first political leader to advocate for a military approach to Indian independence. 
4. He strongly opposed the Partition of India, warning of its long-term consequences well before it occurred. 
5. Despite his significant role, he refused any pension or financial aid from the government after independence, choosing to live a life of self-reliance.

Veer Savarkar's Death Anniversary 2025 FAQs

Q1. Why did Veer Savarkar fast unto death?

Ans. In February 1966, Veer Savarkar undertook a fast unto death, renouncing food, water, and medicines. He firmly believed that when one’s ability to contribute to society ends, voluntarily embracing death is a noble and justified act.

Q2. How many years is Savarkar?

Ans. On returning to India, Savarkar was sentenced to 50 years in the Cellular Jail. He was released in 1924 after submitting multiple mercy petitions to the British.

Q3. What was Veer Savarkar's famous quote?

Ans. "Independence is never given, it is always taken."

Q4. Why is Savarkar not famous?

Ans. Despite his contributions, Savarkar’s legacy remains controversial. He was accused but later acquitted in Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination case and criticized for opposing the Quit India Movement.

Q5. Which was the first fast unto death by Gandhi?

Ans. Ahmedabad Mill Strike marks Mahatma Gandhi's first fast unto death.