Page 125 - Swatantrata to Atmanirbharta : Lokmanya Tilak’s legacy

We will in the following paragraphs try to analyse what we as
ordinary, patriotic citizens can do to fulfil Tilaks legacy. The
pages of history, after all, are not only meant for eulogy and
verbose rhetoric.

2. Swaraj
Swaraj or home rule is Tilak’s most enduring legacy. It is his
signature, his calling card. The concept of Swaraj was mooted
at a time when social reforms were considered more important.
He brought swaraj to the forefront overriding other movements
to overcome dichotomies in the Indian society. Political freedom
became the primary demand of the Indian public. He famously
made the iconic statement, “Swaraj is my birth right and I shall
have it”. These powerful words are worth their weight in gold.
Certain words become more than their meaning; they have a
life of their own. It is powerful because one must understand
that the concept of swaraj being a birth right was born in the
times of colonial rule.

In his speeches Tilak emphasised that without Swaraj there can
be no industrial development and education which is beneficial
for the nation or social reform. Wisdom or awakening comes
with swaraj. Swaraj will allow you to perform your duty in the
world. Indians must have the right to execute their own affairs.
Colonial powers are not the custodians of good administration.
This will allow or enable us to develop and nurture our own
abilities and qualities. We must be spirited and confident to
manage our own affairs. Even if we possess these qualities,
opportunities will still be lacking in the absence of political
freedom. He extolled people to have heroism, courage and
learning which comes with managing one’s affairs or political
freedom. If we do not have strength, no courage, one cannot
achieve anything. Only we can bring about these changes. In the
absence of swaraj, the society becomes weak. Importantly, living
just at the level of sustenance and not desiring to live a better
life is not acceptable. It is important to develop one’s intellect,
abilities, courage, and boldness and not remain docile in nature.
If we do not have the power to be free, then the minds are also
fettered. An entire nation and her people should be able to drive

123 Swatantrata to Atmanirbharata