Mahua wrongly corrects PM Modi, calls Sarojini Bose ‘Sarojini Naidu’
In a recent parliamentary session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned the courageous act of Sarojini Bose, who had vowed not to wear her gold bangles until the ban on ‘Vande Mataram’ was lifted in the early 1900s. However, his statement was met with an unexpected interruption from Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra, who attempted to correct the Prime Minister, shouting “Naidu, sir”. This exchange has sparked a debate about the knowledge of Indian history and the distinction between two prominent female figures of the Indian independence movement: Sarojini Bose and Sarojini Naidu.
The Prime Minister’s mention of Sarojini Bose was a tribute to her bravery and dedication to the Indian freedom struggle. ‘Vande Mataram’, a song written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, was a symbol of the Indian independence movement and was banned by the British colonial authorities. Sarojini Bose’s vow to not wear her gold bangles until the ban was lifted was a powerful statement of defiance against the colonial rule. However, Mahua Moitra’s attempt to correct the Prime Minister, by suggesting that the correct name was Sarojini Naidu, was met with criticism from various quarters.
BJP’s Pradeep Bhandari was quick to respond to Mahua Moitra’s gaffe, saying on X, “She doesn’t know Bose and Naidu were two different women…she should pick up a book.” This statement highlights the lack of knowledge about Indian history and the distinction between these two women, who played important roles in the country’s struggle for independence. Sarojini Naidu, also known as the ‘Nightingle of India’, was a prominent poet, politician, and women’s rights activist, who was the first Indian woman to become the President of the Indian National Congress. While she was a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement, she was not the same person as Sarojini Bose.
The confusion between Sarojini Bose and Sarojini Naidu is not surprising, given the similarities in their names and the fact that both women were involved in the Indian independence movement. However, it is essential to recognize and respect the individual contributions of each woman, rather than conflating their identities. Sarojini Bose, whose story was highlighted by the Prime Minister, was a courageous woman who took a bold stand against the British colonial authorities, while Sarojini Naidu was a pioneering figure in Indian politics and literature.
The exchange between the Prime Minister and Mahua Moitra has sparked a larger debate about the importance of knowing and respecting Indian history. It is essential for public figures, especially those in positions of power, to have a deep understanding of the country’s past and the contributions of its people. This knowledge is not only a matter of personal pride but also a necessary foundation for informed decision-making and leadership.
Furthermore, this incident highlights the need for greater awareness and education about Indian history, particularly among the younger generation. The distinction between Sarojini Bose and Sarojini Naidu is not just a matter of historical trivia; it is a reflection of the diverse and complex nature of the Indian independence movement. By recognizing and respecting the individual contributions of each woman, we can gain a deeper understanding of the struggles and sacrifices that shaped the country’s history.
In conclusion, the incident involving Mahua Moitra’s attempt to correct the Prime Minister has sparked an important debate about Indian history and the distinction between Sarojini Bose and Sarojini Naidu. While it is essential to recognize and respect the individual contributions of each woman, it is also important to acknowledge the larger context of the Indian independence movement and the courage and sacrifices of its participants. As we move forward, it is crucial to promote greater awareness and education about Indian history, particularly among the younger generation, to ensure that the country’s rich and complex heritage is preserved and respected.
News Source: https://x.com/pradip103/status/1997964203391410410
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