For 75 years, the grand old Parliament building has stood as a monumental witness to our nation’s democratic journey. Nestled in the heart of our capital, New Delhi, this magnificent structure has been more than just a marvel of architecture; it has been a living testament to the nation’s history, a crucible of democracy, and a symbol of unity.
In 1947, as we emerged from the shadows of colonialism, the Constituent Assembly convened within these hallowed walls to draft the Constitution. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and other visionary leaders toiled ceaselessly, laying the foundation for a democratic country. The old Parliament, an enduring witness to this historic moment, has carried the torch of democracy for 75 years.
Inside its echoing chambers, the old Parliament has reverberated with impassioned debates and spirited discussions. Iconic leaders such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel, and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad found their voices here. It was within these walls that the course of our future was charted, marked by the passage of historic bills such the Panchayati Raj Act, the abolition of the Zamindari system, etc.
With its distinctive circular design blending classical Indian and British architectural styles, the old Parliament embodies our unity in diversity. The murals and portraits adorning its walls narrate the rich tapestry of our heritage and the relentless struggle of our forefathers for independence.
The old Parliament bore witness to historical events that defined the nation’s destiny. Bhagat Singh’s daring bombing incident, when he threw non-lethal smoke bombs in the Central Legislative Assembly in 1929, was a bold statement of protest against British rule. Former PM Lal Bahadur Shastri’s call of “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan” resonated through these corridors, setting the roots of the Green Revolution that transformed India’s agriculture.
Former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s legendary speech, “sarkarey aayegi jaaegi, partiyan banegi, bigad jayegi, magar ye desh rehna chahiye” (“Governments will come and go, parties will be formed and disintegrate, but this nation must remain”), echoed through the ages, reflecting his commitment to India’s stability and unity.
The old Parliament’s halls still resonate with the voices of leaders like Former PM Indira Gandhi, who steered our nation through extremely challenging times, making resolute decisions during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971 and efforts towards “Garibi Hatao” (Remove Poverty).
The old Parliament also serves as a repository of the major economic initiatives and diplomatic maneuvers employed by Dr. Manmohan Singh, during his tenure as Finance Minister and then Prime Minister, that paved the way for our nation’s integration into the global economy, to the transformative initiatives like “Make In India” and “Digital India” championed by our current PM Narendra Modi aiming to position our nation as a global powerhouse.
Yet, this grand structure has also witnessed moments of tragedy and triumph. The year 2001 marked a dark chapter when terrorists attacked the Parliament complex. The edifice itself bore the scars of that dreadful day, but it also bore witness to the indomitable spirit of our democracy—a spirit that refused to yield in the face of adversity.
In its corridors, the old Parliament also holds stories of diverse cultures and traditions that came together under its roof during various parliamentary sessions and events. The tapestry of our democracy is woven with threads from every corner of the nation, creating a mosaic of unity. As the doors of the old Parliament close behind and a new era beckons, its legacy endures as a reminder of our nation’s democratic ideals, unity, and the power of discourse.
The stories and anecdotes etched into its walls continue to inspire, reminding us that a nation’s journey is not just about its destination but the path it traverses. The old Parliament’s history is not just a chronicle of events; it’s a living narrative of the nation’s soul!