In his latest book The New Icon, published by Penguin, renowned author and journalist Arun Shourie takes a critical look at the life and legacy of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, one of the most controversial figures in India’s freedom struggle. Shourie delves into Savarkar’s personal history, his political ideologies, and the complex narrative surrounding his interactions with key figures of the time, including Mahatma Gandhi, to present a nuanced and fact-based perspective. The book has been launched during end of the January and available in the all market places.

Savarkar’s life has often been the subject of debate, with questions about his patriotism, his relationship with the British colonial rulers, and his views on Hinduism. Shourie’s book aims to shed light on these uncertainties, bringing to the forefront previously overlooked facts and archival material.

The Legendary Escape

One of the enduring myths about Savarkar is his legendary escape attempt from the British in Marseilles, which has been portrayed as a heroic struggle against a stormy sea. Shourie critically assesses this claim, questioning the narrative and examining whether the escape was as perilous as it has been made out to be.

The Gandhi Connection

Savarkar’s association with Mahatma Gandhi has long been a subject of intrigue. During Gandhi’s assassination trial, Savarkar claimed that he and Gandhi had remained friends while in London. Shourie probes this claim, offering a detailed analysis of their relationship and its complexities.

Prison and Political Shifts

Savarkar’s years in the Andaman Cellular Jail are often cited as the catalyst for his shift in political views, particularly his stance towards Muslims. Shourie questions whether the harsh treatment he endured there truly led to this change, or if other factors were at play.

Mercy Petitions and Allegiances

The book also explores Savarkar’s controversial ‘mercy petitions’ to the British, a point of contention for many who question his loyalty to the colonial rulers. Did Savarkar willingly cooperate with the British, pledging to be politically useful for his own release? Shourie uncovers new insights into these petitions, examining their context and the political climate of the time.

Savarkar and Subhas Bose

Another intriguing aspect of Savarkar’s legacy is his influence on Subhas Chandra Bose. Was it Savarkar who showed Bose the path towards the armed struggle for India’s independence? Shourie uncovers this part of history, offering a fresh perspective on the relationship between these two figures.

Hindutva and the Hindu State

At the heart of Savarkar’s philosophy is his concept of Hindutva, a term he coined to define his vision of Hindu nationalism. Shourie delves into Savarkar’s views on Hinduism, examining his thoughts on sacred texts, religious beliefs, and the future of Hindu society. He also explores Savarkar’s envisioned state, questioning the implications of his ideology in the context of modern India.

Resurrecting Savarkar

In today’s political climate, Savarkar is experiencing a resurgence, with many seeing him as a counterpoint to the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. Shourie questions whether the current reverence for Savarkar is an attempt to overshadow Gandhi’s inconvenient ideals, particularly in the context of modern Hindu nationalism.

The New Icon promises to offer readers a deeper understanding of Vinayak Savarkar, challenging long-held perceptions and providing a well-researched look into the life of a man who played a pivotal role in shaping India’s freedom movement. Through this detailed investigation, Arun Shourie brings forth the facts that have often been overshadowed by myth and controversy.

Questions for Readers
In The New Icon, Arun Shourie invites readers to reconsider the complex legacy of Vinayak Savarkar, offering a provocative reexamination of his life, actions, and ideologies. With newly uncovered facts and a critical analysis of his relationships, choices, and the political climate of his time, Shourie’s book promises to challenge what we think we know about Savarkar. As the book raises more questions than it answers, it leaves readers questioning the true nature of his impact on India’s past—and how his legacy continues to shape its future.

About the Author–

Arun Shourie
Scholar, author, former editor and minister, Arun Shourie has, for the last four decades, been one of the most prominent voices in our country’s public affairs and discourse.