2007 - Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak | Commemorative Coin

The first commemorative coin of 2007 was released to mark the 151st Birth Anniversary of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak.

Bal Gangadhar Tilak, one of India’s most revered freedom fighters, social reformers, and nationalist thinkers, occupies a towering place in the country’s struggle for independence. Often hailed as “Lokmanya”, meaning “accepted by the people,” Tilak was among the first leaders to articulate the demand for complete self-rule, influencing generations of revolutionaries and freedom seekers.

Born on July 23, 1856, in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, Tilak displayed an exceptional intellect from a young age. After completing his education in mathematics and law, he chose not to pursue a career in the British administration. Instead, he dedicated his life to awakening national consciousness through education, journalism, and political activism. He co-founded the Deccan Education Society and played a crucial role in establishing the Fergusson College in Pune, believing that national resurgence could only be built upon an educated and morally awakened youth.

Tilak’s contribution to Indian journalism is legendary. His newspapers, Kesari in Marathi and The Mahratta in English, became powerful platforms for expressing nationalist ideas and exposing injustices under colonial rule. Through his writings, he fearlessly criticized oppressive policies, mobilized public opinion, and encouraged Indians to fight for their rights. His famous declaration, “Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it!” became the clarion call of the freedom movement, inspiring millions across the nation.

As a political leader, Tilak was a strong advocate of assertive nationalism. He believed that passive resistance was insufficient to challenge colonial power and encouraged more determined forms of protest. His leadership in the Swadeshi Movement, support for indigenous industries, and emphasis on cultural revival played a vital role in uniting people across regions and communities. Tilak also revitalized public celebrations such as Ganesh Chaturthi and Shivaji Jayanti, transforming them into gatherings of political awareness and social unity.

Tilak faced repeated imprisonment for his bold views, including a significant term in Mandalay, Burma (now Myanmar). Despite harsh conditions, he spent his time writing one of his most celebrated works, Gita Rahasya, a philosophical treatise interpreting the Bhagavad Gita’s message of selfless action. This work highlighted his belief that spiritual strength should guide patriotic duty.

After his release, Tilak continued to shape the national movement through the Home Rule League, which he co-founded in 1916. This initiative galvanized political activism across India and strengthened the campaign for self-government. Although he passed away on August 1, 1920, his vision, courage, and ideological clarity left a deep imprint on India’s march toward independence.

Bal Gangadhar Tilak remains immortal in India’s collective memory—an uncompromising nationalist, an inspiring teacher, a fearless journalist, and a leader who lit the spark of Swaraj in the hearts of millions.

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