Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, commonly known as V.D. Savarkar or Veer Savarkar, was an influential Indian freedom fighter, political thinker, and prolific writer. His extensive literary output spans history, ideology, autobiography, poetry, and drama. Through his books, Savarkar sought to reinterpret India’s past, inspire nationalist fervor, and define a distinct political identity rooted in Hindutva. Below is an indepth look at some of his most important works, arranged by category, offering insight into his ideas, legacy, and impact on Indian thought.
Historical and Political Works
The Indian War of Independence (1857)
Written in 1907 and published secretly in 1909, this Marathi-origin manuscript framed the 1857 uprising as a unified war of independence rather than a mere rebellion.
Six Glorious Epochs of Indian History
In this book, Savarkar covers six significant periods in India’s past, stressing bravery, resilience, and cultural pride.
Inside the Enemy Camp
Published in 1965, this work critiques colonial practices from within, exposing the mechanisms of British propaganda and control.
Ideological and Philosophical Writings
Hindutva: Who Is a Hindu? (Essentials of Hindutva)
Published in 1923 from prison, this ideological treatise defines ‘Hindutva’ as a cultural-political identity rooted in shared ancestry and civilizational heritage.
Hindu Rashtra Darshan & Hindu Pad-Padshahi
Published in 1949 and 1945 respectively, these writings further elaborate Savarkar’s Hindutva philosophy. They explore India’s identity, governance models, and societal organization under a Hindu cultural framework.
Autobiographical and Prison Writings
My Transportation for Life (Kala Pani)
An autobiographical account from 1927, this vivid memoir chronicles Savarkar’s imprisonment in the Andaman Cellular Jail.
Letters from Andaman
This collection of personal letters from prison in the 1930s reveals Savarkar’s reflections on freedom, cultural identity, and inner resilience.
Mazi Janmathep (My Life Sentence)
Published in 1927, this autobiography details his life imprisonment experience and emotional journey.
Literary and Dramatic Works
Kamala
This 1909 Marathi play centers on a patriotic woman who sacrifices her personal happiness in service of the nation.
Poetry and Other Writings
Savarkar was also a poet and essayist, writing on social reform and Hindu revivalism.
Why Savarkar’s Books Matter
- They offer a nationalist reinterpretation of key historical events, notably 1857.
- Hindutva writings shaped future Hindu nationalist ideology.
- Their autobiographical prison narratives provide compelling testimony to colonial suppression and resilience.
- His literary plays and poetry extended the intellectual reach of his political ideas.
Critical Reception and Controversy
Savarkar’s works sparked both admiration and criticism. His framing of the 1857 revolt stirred nationalist pride but also faced pushback from historians like Majumdar for overstating national unity. His prison memoirs, however, are universally valued for their sincerity and depth.
Books by V.D. Savarkar capture a complex figure: revolutionary, ideologue, prisoner, poet. His writings cover India’s historical struggle, political identity, ideological direction, and personal suffering. From the transformative account of 1857 to the ideological groundwork of Hindutva, his works continue to influence discourse on history, politics, and national culture. While controversial at times, his legacy remains embedded in India’s literary and political landscape. For those seeking to understand Indian nationalism, colonial resistance, or political thought, Savarkar’s writings remain essential reading.
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