Bal Gangadhar Tilak – Homage on his 98th Death Anniversary
Even a hundred years later, his thoughts are relevant to modern times. Swaraj and Swadeshi products are still something we need to keep in mind in the times of free markets.
Bal Gangadhar Tilak or ‘Lokamanya’ as he was fondly titled by Indians – was a revolutionary freedom fighter – immensely respected by Indians during the British Raj. Truly loved and honoured for leading them towards political freedom through economic independence – Lokamanya simplified economic reforms for Indians even as the country was undergoing social and political strife.
He began the Swadeshi movement in year 1905. He asked people to encourage local, handmade crafts and skills – buy what was made by artisans and keep cheaper machine goods out of markets. Lokmanya’s call was to create demand for Swadeshi (goods made in India). Foreign rulers had gained control over raw material prices and flooded Indian markets with comparatively cheaper machine-made textiles. The merchant seafarers soon decided to further their profits by taking political control by colonizing the country.
It was Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak who reminded the Indians about lasting benefits of using Indian goods and textiles. The idea was relevant to control prices of cotton and ensure that weavers did not lose their occupation with textile looms replacing them for quick and cheaper machine weave.
In year 2015 – over 100 years after the movement, we see India as a free country, yet these principles of manufacturing are as relevant as they were back then. Lokmanya’s editorials in a regional daily titled ‘Kesari ‘(Lion in Sanksrit) moulded and enlightened masses. It is an unique coincidence to have the Lion roar yet again as a mascot for ‘Make in India’.
He is the architect of present day Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. In 1893 he organised the Ganesh Utsav and popularised it as a social and religious function. The festival served as a meeting place for common people of all castes and communities at a time when public, social, and political gatherings were banned by the British.
We pay tribute to Lokamanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak on his 98th death anniversary. Lokmanya’s spirit as a freedom fighter, his principles for economic self-reliance will continue to be the guiding force in making a new India.
