Honoring a Freedom Fighter’s Legacy
In a significant move, the iconic ‘Throne Room’ at the Raj Bhavan in Kolkata, which stands as a testament to the British era’s grandeur, has been renamed to commemorate the legacy of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister of Independent India. This decision, a tribute to the stalwart freedom fighter, was made by Governor C.V. Ananda Bose on the occasion of Patel’s birth anniversary.
The ‘Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Unity Room’
The ‘Throne Room’ will now bear the name ‘Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Unity Room,’ symbolizing the unity and integrity that Sardar Patel championed during India’s early post-independence years. This renaming reflects a commitment to preserving the memory and ideals of one of the architects of modern India.
An Academic Chair at Calcutta University
Governor Ananda Bose also announced the establishment of a new academic chair in honor of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Calcutta University. As the Chancellor of the university, this decision underscores his dedication to fostering the study of Patel’s legacy and contributions to the nation.
A Room of Historical Significance
The ‘Throne Room’ is not just a space of historical importance but a repository of relics that echo the rich tapestry of India’s past. It boasts a collection of thrones that were once occupied by iconic historical figures, including Lord Wellesley and Tipu Sultan.
Preserving the Legacy through Art
This room is adorned with a collection of oil paintings featuring some of India’s most prominent leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi, Subhas Chandra Bose, Jawaharlal Nehru, and former West Bengal Chief Minister B.C. Roy. These artworks serve as a visual narrative of India’s journey towards freedom and progress.
A Glimpse of Gandhi’s Legacy
Adding to the room’s historical significance is an urn that was used to carry the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi. Displayed here, it provides visitors with a direct link to the Father of the Nation and his enduring influence on India’s history and ethos.
The renaming of the ‘Throne Room’ and the establishment of an academic chair at Calcutta University serve as a poignant reminder of the nation’s commitment to honoring its illustrious past and the visionary leaders who shaped its destiny. The ‘Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Unity Room’ stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of one of India’s most revered freedom fighters and statesmen.