Iconic Emblem That Headed Ceremonial Reception For President Murmu In Parliament

The ceremonial welcome accorded to President Droupadi Murmu in Parliament during the Budget Session prominently highlighted the Sengol, an enduring symbol of India’s civilisational values.

The ancient sceptre stood at the forefront of the procession as the President arrived to address the joint sitting of Parliament.

Vice President C P Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju escorted the President into the House.

A senior Marshal, dressed in traditional attire, led the procession while carrying the Sengol with solemn dignity.

The Sengol originates from the spiritual and cultural traditions of ancient Tamil civilisation.

It represents the principle that political authority must operate under dharma, or righteous conduct.

Historically, Tamil monarchs used the Sengol during coronation rituals to affirm their ethical responsibilities toward the people.

Records show that this tradition regained national significance on the eve of Independence in 1947.

Leaders ceremonially presented the Sengol to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, marking the transfer of authority from colonial rule to a sovereign Indian state.

The moment symbolised governance rooted in the Indian civilisational ethos rather than imperial legacy.

Master craftsmen from Vummidi Bangaru Chetty created the Sengol. Seers from the Thiruvaduthurai Adheenam sanctified it, imparting spiritual legitimacy and continuity

The sceptre symbolises the ‘Dharma Danda’, reminding rulers that moral order stands above personal power.

Historically associated with the Chola dynasty, the Sengol marked the transition of power between kings.

In modern governance, it conveys that elected authority must act fairly, follow constitutional norms, and uphold ethical accountability.

The Sengol’s presence during key parliamentary events, including the President’s address, transforms ceremonial protocol into a cultural statement.

It reinforces the government’s effort to integrate indigenous symbols into contemporary democratic practice.

Authorities installed the Sengol beside the Lok Sabha Speaker’s chair on May 28, 2023, during the inauguration of the new Parliament building.

Since then, it has featured prominently in national ceremonies.

Some Opposition members have questioned its place in Parliament, arguing for exclusive constitutional symbolism.

Supporters, however, view the Sengol as long-overdue recognition of India’s heritage. Crafted in silver, gold-plated, and crowned with Nandi, the Sengol now stands as an accepted emblem of ethical governance.

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